The African-American Studies minor offers an interdisciplinary perspective on the collective histories, experiences, contributions, and social conditions of African-Americans in the United States and abroad, beginning with African roots and the Diaspora. Courses focus on the political, social, economic, scientific, and religious discourses that have shaped African-Americans.
This minor will integrate research and scholarship while enabling students to explore theories and methods that will enhance their awareness of race relationships, African-American culture, and African-American issues. Additionally, the minor will help students to better prepare themselves for professional endeavors, especially in such areas as health care, education, public service, and business. Students will have a better understanding of the diverse populations that many may serve in their careers. In addition to academic coursework, the African-American Studies minor sponsors public events throughout the year. These include panel discussions, lectures, and film screenings.
Requirements (18 credit hours)
The minor consists of 18 credit hours (six courses). Courses taken for the minor must include topics related to African-American culture and/or issues.
Required (3 credit hours)
AAS 101: Introduction to African-American Studies (3)
Electives (15 credit hours)
Choose two courses from the African-American Focus section and at least one course from the Race in America section.
African-American Focus
- CCJ 328: African-Americans and the Criminal Justice System (3)
- ENGL 331: Issues in African-American Literature (3)
- HIST 220: History of Black Chicago (3)
- HIST 228: African-American History (3)
- MUS 138: History of Jazz (3)
- POLSC 242: African-American Political Thought (3)
Race in America
- EDU 315: Diversity in American Education (3)
- SOC 224: The Invention of Race (3)
- SOC 225: Racial and Ethnic Relations (3)
Additional Elective Options
- HIST 310: History and Politics of Welfare in America (3)
- POLSC 207: Urban Politics (3)
- SOC 283: Gangs and Society (3)
- SOC 325: Race, Class, Gender and the Law (3)
Special topic courses relevant to African-American studies may be included in the minor. Please consult Self-Service using the course type "African-American Studies" to find additional courses approved for the minor. Contact the director for more information.
Faculty
The African-American Studies minor draws upon the expertise of faculty in many academic areas within the University. These faculty offer courses appropriate to the scholarly study of African-American history, experience, contribution, and conditions.