Introduces the interdisciplinary foundations, theoretical perspectives, and major themes in African and African American Studies. Students examine historical development, key concepts, research traditions, and contemporary scholarship that shape the discipline.

Explores the political, economic, social, and cultural development of African societies from ancient civilizations to the modern era. Topics include colonialism, independence movements, nation-building, and contemporary challenges.

Examines African American history from the transatlantic slave trade through Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary social justice movements. Emphasis is placed on political activism, community leadership, and institutional change.

Studies migration, transnational identities, cultural exchange, and the historical experiences of African-descended populations across the Americas, Europe, the Caribbean, Latin America, and other regions.

Analyzes race, ethnicity, identity formation, equity, inclusion, discrimination, and systemic inequality through interdisciplinary frameworks. Students evaluate policy responses and social justice initiatives in diverse global contexts.

Examines political systems, democratic governance, international relations, economic development, public administration, and policymaking affecting African nations and African diaspora communities.

Explores literary traditions, visual arts, music, film, philosophy, and cultural production across Africa and the African Diaspora. Students analyze how artistic expression reflects historical experience, identity, resistance, and social transformation.

Provides advanced qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, archival research techniques, data analysis, academic writing, ethics, and interdisciplinary approaches used in scholarly research.

Examines international development, globalization, migration, environmental sustainability, conflict resolution, public health, and human rights issues affecting Africa and diaspora communities worldwide.

Develops leadership competencies for public service, nonprofit management, civic engagement, advocacy, community organizing, and organizational leadership through applied projects and policy analysis.

Students complete an original research thesis demonstrating mastery of interdisciplinary scholarship, independent research methods, critical analysis, and academic writing under faculty supervision.