Africana Studies- African Diaspora Studies
The Africana Studies: African Diaspora 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 histories, cultures, social structures, and global experiences of African-descended peoples. The curriculum integrates history, sociology, cultural studies, political science, and research methodology, enabling students to critically analyze the experiences of the African diaspora, examine issues of race and identity, and explore cultural, social, and political contributions across the world. Students engage in fieldwork, archival research, and applied projects, cultivating analytical, critical thinking, and interpretive skills necessary for professional or academic careers in Africana studies, education, policy, or cultural research.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in African diaspora history, culture, and social analysis. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, cultural literacy, and applied analysis, preparing graduates to evaluate historical and contemporary issues, interpret cultural phenomena, and apply their knowledge in education, research, policy, or advocacy contexts. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, cultural literacy, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in Africana studies, social sciences, education, or cultural institutions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Africana Studies- African Diaspora 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 Diaspora Studies
- Introduction to African Diaspora History and Cultures
- Principles of Sociology and Social Analysis
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
- Foundations of Political, Social, and Cultural Contexts
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Diaspora Communities
- African Diaspora Literature and Cultural Expression
- Social and Political Movements Across the Diaspora
- Applied Research Projects in Diaspora Studies
- Electives: Media, Gender and Society, or Comparative Cultures
Year 3 – Advanced Cultural and Social Analysis
- Fieldwork and Community Engagement
- Contemporary Social, Political, and Cultural Dynamics
- Applied Research and Case Studies
- Electives: Human Rights, International Relations, or African Politics
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Advanced Diaspora Studies Topics
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Research, Cultural Organizations, or Advocacy Groups
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the African Diaspora Studies program are prepared for careers in education, research, policy and advocacy, nonprofit organizations, cultural institutions, and international relations. Alumni may work as educators, cultural analysts, policy advisors, researchers, or pursue graduate studies in Africana studies, social sciences, education, or public policy. The program equips graduates to critically analyze social structures, interpret cultural contexts, and engage effectively with diverse communities. With strong research, analytical, and intercultural skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on social justice, cultural literacy, and applied research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of historical analysis, cultural studies, applied research, and interdisciplinary learning within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork, and experiential projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in education, policy, and cultural engagement. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and cross-cultural competence, preparing graduates to evaluate complex social issues, contribute to research and advocacy initiatives, and apply their knowledge in professional and academic contexts. For students passionate about African diaspora cultures, social justice, and cultural research, 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
