Program Overview Africana Studies B.A.Africana Studies Minor

Why Minor 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 minor 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 minor in Africana studies will give you an overview of the artistic, cultural, economic, historical, literary, political, psychological, scientific, and technological contributions of these communities locally, nationally, and globally. Students who minor in Africana studies will gain knowledge of the experiences of people of African descent in Africa and its diasporic communities, and how to utilize efficient problem–solving techniques and strategies for these communities.

At a Glance

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What Are My Career Options Studying Africana Studies?

Africana studies students have pursued graduate and professional programs and built successful careers in many fields, including public affairs, law, health, government, social work, education, the visual and performing arts, and business and management. Many students planning careers in medicine, law, public policy, social work, and education pursue a second major or a minor in Africana studies.

Students with interest in foreign service in Africa and the Caribbean or students who intend to acquire graduate training with specialization on Africa or the Caribbean will be well-prepared in the department. The concentration in Community Involvement Studies prepares students to work in community-oriented, community-based agencies or in local government.

The track in education enables students with career interest in elementary-and secondary-level teaching to prepare for Maryland Teacher Certification in Social Studies through the UMBC Department of Education.

Tuition, Scholarships & Financial Aid

UMBC is committed to making a world-class education accessible to every student. We offer a range of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans to help you manage the cost of your education. New and current degree-seeking undergraduates can explore institutional and departmental scholarships using our Scholarship Retriever tool, along with additional opportunities from external partners. Scholarships and financial aid can help cover tuition, fees, textbooks, and even housing and meals, ensuring you can focus on your studies and your future at UMBC.

2025–2026 Undergraduate Cost Calculator Financial Aid Scholarships

Ready to Apply?

Complete the Common App

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

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.

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.

Application Deadlines

GO TO THE COMMON APP VISIT UMBC ADMISSION TRANSFER CENTRAL

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.

Africana Studies Minor