Africana Studies, BA: African Diaspora Studies
Africana Studies is an interdisciplinary field of study devoted to the critical and systematic examination of the cultural, political, social, economic, and historical experiences of African Americans, Africans, and peoples of African descent around the world. Our course of study is designed to provide students with an integrated understanding and appreciation for a new global black studies. An undergraduate degree in Africana Studies prepares students for graduate work in the humanities, social sciences, and professional schools, as well as a range of careers in teaching, business, public service, and the arts, among others.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 32. Double majors may entail more course units.
African Language courses do not count toward the Major Requirements.
For more information: https://africana.sas.upenn.edu/department/undergraduate
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Core Requirements | ||
| AFRC 1001 | Introduction to Africana Studies | 1 |
| AFRC 1002 | Introduction to Africa | 1 |
| Category Requirements | ||
| Humanities Course | ||
| AFRC 2325 | August Wilson and Beyond | 1 |
| Social Science Course | ||
| AFRC 1060 | Race and Ethnic Relations | 1 |
| or AFRC 2430 | Race, Science & Justice | |
| or SOCI 1060 | Race and Ethnic Relations | |
| or SOCI 2430 | Race, Science & Justice | |
| Methodology Course | ||
| AFRC 2010 | Social Statistics | 1 |
| or SOCI 2010 | Social Statistics | |
| Research Course 2 | ||
| AFRC 3500 | American Slavery and the Law (or similar) | 1 |
| African Diaspora Concentration | 4 | |
| 1 Elective with the following attributes: | 1 | |
| Capstone | ||
| AFRC 3999 | Independent Study | 1 |
| or AFRC 4990 | Honors Course | |
| Total Course Units | 32 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
- 2
Select a Research Course at the 3000-4000 level.
Honors
A minimum GPA of 3.3 is required. Please consult with the Program Director for further details of requirements.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| AFRC 4990 | Honors Course | 1 |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.