Africana Studies
Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Africana Studies?

Discover the unique contributions of the people of African descent to world history, literary, artistic, political, psychological, scientific, and technological innovations that shape today’s landscape. Ready to impact this community?

UMBC’s Africana Studies department (AFST) is an interdisciplinary program that connects you to the past, present, and future of the African and African diasporic communities. Through a B.A. Standard Major and a concentration in Community Involvement Studies options, or Minor in Africana studies, students of all ethnic, national, and cultural backgrounds acquire the necessary tools and skills to understand, critically evaluate, analyze, and interpret events and phenomena that structure the experiences, possibilities, and dynamics of the people of African descent in the United States, Africa, and its Diasporas.

AFST offers a rigorous and challenging academic program that prepares students to think and write critically and clearly, engage in research and service, argue persuasively, and effectively solve problems. In addition to the major options in Africana studies, a student may choose to complete a double major in AFST by combining AFST with a second program of their choice.

At a Glance

Africana Studies Undergraduate Programs

Campus Locations:
Catonsville

Department:
Department of Africana Studies

College:
College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

Which Program is Right for You?

Bachelor of Arts in Africana Studies

Students focus on research, history, literature, and community involvement to develop a critical understanding of African diaspora peoples.

VIEW Bachelor of Arts DETAILS →

Minor in Africana Studies

Gain a broad overview of African history to analyze and interpret the dynamics shaping this community today.

VIEW Minor DETAILS →

Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid

UMBC works to provide students with adequate need-based funding.

Ready to Apply?

1

Complete the Common App

Your first stop is the Common App. You can learn more about how to apply with the Common App here.

2

Request Supporting Documents

You’ll be required to submit your official transcript and international transcript (if applicable). You may also choose to submit standardized test scores and/or letters of recommendation.

3

Complete Scholars Programs and Visual and Performing Arts Majors Requirements (optional)

Applying to a Scholars Program or as a Visual or Performing Arts major? Be sure to research additional requirements and deadlines specific to the programs of interest to you.

Contact Information

UMBC Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation Contact Information

Mailing Address

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
and Orientation

1000 Hilltop Circle Baltimore, MD 21250

OFFICE LOCATION

Albin O. Kuhn Library
on the lower level next to Library Pond

Admissions Staff

410-455-2292

Available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

admissions@umbc.edu

Request Help

Email Undergraduate Admissions at Request Help.

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