Explore History. Understand Culture. Engage the World.
Program Overview
The Black / Africana Studies minor at Elizabeth City State University provides students with an interdisciplinary understanding of the history, culture, and experiences of people of African descent. This program examines the African diaspora across time and place, exploring social, cultural, political, and historical perspectives.
Students engage with topics that highlight the global impact and contributions of African and African American communities while developing critical thinking and analytical skills.
Who Should Minor in Black / Africana Studies?
This minor pairs well with majors such as:
- History
- English
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice
Students interested in culture, history, social justice, and community engagement will find this minor especially valuable.
Why Choose a Black / Africana Studies Minor?
This minor strengthens your degree by providing a broader understanding of diverse cultures, histories, and societal issues.
Through this program, you will:
Africana Studies is interdisciplinary by design, drawing from areas such as history, literature, sociology, and political science to provide a well-rounded perspective.
What You’ll Learn
This minor includes coursework that examines the experiences and contributions of people of African descent.
Areas of study include:
- African and African American history
- Culture and society within the African diaspora
- Social and political issues affecting Black communities
- Literature, arts, and cultural expression
- Interdisciplinary approaches to race, identity, and society
Students explore how historical and cultural experiences shape contemporary issues and global perspectives.
Program Structure
The Black / Africana Studies minor consists of a combination of required and elective courses that provide both foundational knowledge and opportunities for focused study.
- Includes introductory and upper-level coursework
- Draws from multiple academic disciplines
- Designed to complement a wide range of majors
At Elizabeth City State University, minors are typically structured around approximately 18 credit hours of coursework completed alongside a major.
Students are encouraged to work with advisors to select courses that align with their academic and career goals.
Career Opportunities
TThe Black / Africana Studies minor provides valuable skills in analysis, communication, and cultural understanding, which are applicable across many career paths.
Students may pursue careers in:
- Education and teaching
- Social work and community services
- Public policy and government
- Nonprofit and advocacy organizations
- Communications, media, and journalism
- Law and public service
This minor is especially beneficial for careers that involve working with diverse communities, addressing social issues, or understanding cultural dynamics.
Hands-On Learning
This minor emphasizes critical engagement and applied learning.
Students may:
- Analyze historical and contemporary issues
- Engage in discussions on culture, identity, and society
- Explore interdisciplinary connections across subjects
- Apply research and analytical skills to real-world topics
Coursework encourages students to think critically about the past and present while developing informed perspectives.
Interested in adding the Black / Africana Studies minor?
Connect with your academic advisor to learn how this program fits into your degree plan.
