Africana Studies

Are you interested in African-American images in popular culture? African-American women in literature? The African diaspora? Black-protest thought in America?

Consider a major or minor in Africana studies—the history, culture and contemporary issues pertaining to people of African descent and specifically the black woman. Learn from your peers during collaborative, in-class discussions and discover the richness of this field through a wide variety of texts and disciplinary perspectives. At Agnes Scott, our diversity enriches the classroom experience and inspires focused, intellectual thought and serious dialogue.

Beyond the classroom, Agnes Scott offers study abroad programs and African-American student organizations, as well as internship and employment opportunities within the city of Atlanta, significant for both its rich history and contemporary culture.

What will I study?
Students will approach Africana studies through three perspectives: 

• The “related” perspective explores Africana studies by means of different liberal arts disciplines such as music, sociology, literature, religious studies and psychology.
• The “historical and cultural” perspective examines the African diaspora in terms of specific temporal and geographical contexts.
• The “critical” perspective approaches black experiences from a standpoint that emphasizes political and cultural power dynamics and the effects of marginalization.

How will this degree help me when I graduate?
This program will provide you with a wealth of knowledge on the culture and history of Africa, African America and the African diaspora, as well as highly developed analytical, communicative and research skills. As a graduate, you can:

• Continue your education in graduate or law school
• Work at museums and with archives
• Pursue a career in teaching at various levels
• Work for state or local government in various professional capacities that may include social services, political advocacy or cultural administration
• Serve public interest groups
• Work in the court system