What will you learn as an African American Studies student?

The African American Studies Program brings together a dedicated team of professors from various disciplines who are passionate about both academic excellence and social responsibility.

The program draws from nine different academic fields, including African American Studies, anthropology, sociology, English, political science, education, theater, history, religious studies and psychology. You'll study topics such as: 

  • African American Society and Culture 
  • African American Art, Literature, Theatre, Religions
  • Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Latin Studies
  • Race, Violence, and Memory in American History 
  • Minority Entrepreneurship
  • Democracy, Culture, and the Arts 
  • Race, Gender, and Environment
  • Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination
  • Race and Ethnic Relations
  • Studies in Black Feminism

By exploring these diverse subjects, both students and faculty reflect on the history and culture of the Black experience. When you study here, we'll encourage you to consider the complexities and opportunities of living and working in a diverse world where multiple ethnicities exist.

African American Studies became an official subject of study through a student strike at San Francisco State University in 1968. During this time, students insisted that the history and culture of Black Americans be recognized and taught as an essential part of the curriculum. Their activism helped establish African American Studies as a formal discipline. 

The African American Studies Program at the College of Charleston began in 1996 as a minor and added a major in 2014.

Academic Details

Learn more about how to major and minor in African American Studies.
  • Major in African American Studies

    As a student majoring in African American Studies, you will acquire a deep understanding of African American history and culture. You will also develop knowledge about the history and role of race in American society. Additionally, you’ll gain skills that enable you to collaborate effectively with diverse populations and engage with diverse ideas.

    You’ll learn to:

    • conduct research.
    • communicate your ideas effectively.
    • write persuasively.
    • think critically. 

    As a graduate, you'll have a comprehensive education in the liberal arts and sciences along with the specialized focus of the African American Studies program. This program produces graduates with highly sought after abilities and knowledge. You’ll know how to study, to analyze and to learn. That’s what will make you marketable in various professional fields.

    Are you a current student?

    Declare Your Major through the Program of Study management (POSM) via MyPortal

  • Minor in African American Studies

    You may want to consider adding African American Studies as a minor. The minor centers on studying the Black experience. It will help you comprehend the history and culture of African Americans while learning about the many Black experiences across different fields of study.

    By adding this minor, you can explore careers such as:

    • teaching community development.
    • social service agencies.
    • public administration.

    Moreover, a minor in African American Studies serves as exceptional preparation for graduate and professional schools. Why? Because you’ll develop a solid foundation in reasearch, writing and critical thinking, which will apply to your chosen field.

    Learn more about minoring in African American Studies here.

    Are you a current student?

    Declare Your Minor through the Program of Study management (POSM) via MyPortal

More Opportunities

The African American Studies program offers students many opportunities for internships, individualized research in a Capstone, and several honors and awards.
  • Capstone Project

    As part of your final year, you will be required to complete an original year-long Capstone project. You will create an individualized project focusing on an aspect of the African diaspora or African American life, history, culture, or experience. Capstone projects can be done in a variety of formats such as:

    • community development projects.
    • photographic essays or documentaries.
    • dance for theatrical performances.
    • business plans or grant proposals.
    • interactive or other new media projects.
    • screenplays or works of fiction/creative nonfiction.
    • Scholarly research essays.
    • music recycles or curated art exhibits.
    • learning units or curriculums.
    • Production of original art (paintings, sculptures, music, writing, theater).
    • professional development workshops.
    • oral history projects.

    Are you a current student?

    Visit the Hub for more info!
  • Internships

    Internships offer you the chance to gain valuable experiences in different professions. During your Internship, you’ll develop specific skills to help you build a professional network and résumé. These internships may even lead to a job! Internships are a great way to learn and grow while preparing for your future career.

    Businesses, museums and organizations are excited to have interns who possess knowledge of African American history and culture. Many local organizations, where African American majors have interned, include, but are not limited to:

    Oh, and did we mention you can earn academic course credit? This means that in addition to gaining valuable work experience, you’ll receive credit towards your academic study. It's a fantastic opportunity to combine practical learning with classroom instruction, making the most out of their internships while progressing academically.

    Are you a current student?

    Visit the Hub for more info!
  • Honors and Awards

    We are excited to offer a variety of awards! If you demonstrate outstanding academic scholarship, community engagement and creative endeavors, you may be eligible.

    Conseula Francis Outstanding Student Award

    Portrait of Conseula Francis, Ph.D. In honor of the late Conseula Francis, Ph.D. Francis was the first African American Studies Program Director and Professor of English. She was the first Black woman promoted to full professor at the College, and she used her position and influence to personally advocate for students, junior faculty and, most especially, students and junior faculty of color. This award recognizes graduating seniors in the major. Recognition is based on grade point average in the major and overall grades earned at the College of Charleston as well as extra-curricular activities that distinguish the award

    Ajani Ofynniyin Community Activism Award 

    Portrait of Ajani Ofunniyin, Ph.D.In honor of Dr. “O”. Dr. O was the founder and director of the Gullah Society, former program director at the Avery Research Center, and adjunct faculty member with the African American Studies Program. Dr. O was a staunch advocate for his students and sought to improve antiracism on campus and beyond. This award recognizes the outstanding service of an AAST major/minor to improve the campus or broader community with respect to issues around racial equality and social justice.

     

    Bernard E. Powers Writing Award 

    Portrait of Dr. Bernhard Powers, Ph.D.In honor of Bernie Powers, Ph.D. Powers is professor emeritus in the Department of History. He is one of the foremost scholars on the history of Black Charleston. As a history professor at the College, Powers taught the first African American history course that helped lay the framework for what would become the African American Studies program. This award recognizes writing achievement by any student enrolled in a course that counts for AAST credit. Students do not have to be AAST majors/minors. Essays submitted should be at least four pages.

    Are you a current student?

    Visit the Hub for more info!