Africana Studies- African American Studies
The Africana Studies: African American Studies Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture, politics, and social experiences of African American communities. The curriculum integrates history, sociology, literature, political science, and cultural studies, enabling students to critically examine the historical and contemporary challenges, achievements, and contributions of African Americans. Students engage in research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary projects, developing the analytical, interpretive, and communication skills necessary to understand and articulate complex social and cultural dynamics.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, collaborative research, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in African American studies, sociology, and cultural analysis. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research proficiency, and interdisciplinary inquiry, preparing graduates to analyze social structures, evaluate policies, and advocate for equity and inclusion. Students leave the program with research competence, critical insight, cultural literacy, and analytical skills, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in African American studies, social sciences, public policy, or related disciplines.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Africana Studies- African American Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Area & Cultural Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in African American Studies
- Introduction to African American Studies
- African American History and Culture
- Sociology and Social Analysis
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
Year 2 – Intermediate Study and Social Contexts
- African American Literature and Arts
- Politics and Social Movements
- Race, Identity, and Social Justice
- Electives: Gender Studies, Urban Studies, or Cultural Expression
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Research
- Contemporary African American Society
- Comparative Studies of the African Diaspora
- Applied Research and Community Engagement
- Electives: Public Policy, Education, or Social Advocacy
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in African American Studies
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Experiential Project in Community or Cultural Institutions
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the African American Studies program are prepared for careers in education, public policy, research, cultural organizations, nonprofit advocacy, and community development. Alumni may work as researchers, educators, policy analysts, program coordinators, or pursue graduate studies in African American studies, social sciences, law, or public administration. The program equips graduates to analyze social, cultural, and political issues, design interventions, and advocate for equity and inclusion. With strong research, analytical, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments addressing social justice, cultural engagement, and community development.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of African American history, cultural analysis, social research, and applied community engagement within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, collaborative research, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in social, cultural, and policy contexts. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary reasoning, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to contribute to academic research, policy development, and cultural initiatives. For students passionate about understanding African American experiences, analyzing social structures, and applying scholarship to create meaningful impact, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
