Bachelor of Arts in African American Studies

About

African American studies describe the systematic investigation into the vast range of racial, ethnic, cultural and political perspectives, experiences and beliefs of people of African heritage around the globe, with a particular focus on the African diaspora in the United States. Students emerge from Saint Louis University's Bachelor of Arts of African American Studies program with a rigorous understanding of the histories, philosophies, culture and literature emergent from the African diaspora, thus enabling them to embark on careers in education, law, politics, business and the arts.  African American studies offer SLU students the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the vast diversity of the society in which they live. Students will become knowledgeable about the African diaspora and be prepared to seek careers or professional programs where they can utilize knowledge to design and implement programs for African Americans and other diasporic communities. Our students, staff and faculty come from a range of backgrounds, experiences and fields of study. Collectively, our mission is to combine rigorous study, creativity and research in producing and exchanging knowledge concerning the African diaspora. We aim to foster a community of thinkers, scholars, activists and artists whose work enriches understanding of how African Americans and other African diasporic communities have mutually shaped the social worlds they inhabit. SLU's Department of African American Studies also offers unique academic opportunities, such as internships and field service projects in African American communities, for students seeking challenges outside the classroom. Students should consult the department chair for more information on this aspect of our program. Graduates will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the rich complexities of the social, political, economic and cultural life primarily of people of African descent in the United States, but also those in the African diaspora and on the continent. 

Career Path  

Graduate career path includes Teacher (Secondary/Community Programs), Curriculum Developer (Ethnic Studies), Educational Outreach Coordinator, Museum Educator, Cultural Journalist, Media Content Creator (African American Perspectives), Documentary Researcher, Public Relations Specialist (Diversity Focus), Arts & Culture Program Coordinator, Creative Writer (African American Narratives), Policy Analyst (Race & Equity Focus), Civil Rights Advocate, Community Organizer, Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Legislative Aide (Social Justice Focus), Nonprofit Program Coordinator, Human Rights Specialist, Social Services Coordinator, Community Development Specialist, Urban Planning Assistant (Equity Focus), Public Health Outreach Specialist, Cultural Affairs Officer, Nonprofit Development Officer, Human Resources Specialist (Equity Programs), Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist, Diversity & Inclusion Consultant, Nonprofit Management Specialist, Market Research Analyst (Cultural Trends).