Why Major in 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 B.A. in Africana studies is an interdisciplinary program that connects you to the past, present, and future of the African and African diasporic communities. Through a rigorous coursework, a major in Africana studies will give you a comprehensive overview of the artistic, cultural, economic, historical, literary, political, psychological, scientific, and technological contributions of these communities locally, nationally, and globally. You will gain the full range of intellectual and interdisciplinary skills to read and think critically, reason logically and analytically, write effectively, speak fluently, demonstrate knowledge of the histories of Africans and African Diasporan peoples, and how to utilize efficient problem–solving techniques and strategies for these communities.

You will graduate with a strong set of liberal arts skills that will prepare you for a rewarding career in public affairs, law, foreign service, health, government, social work, education, the visual and performing arts, and business and management.