About the African American Studies Minor
Explore the experiences and global impact of African American people.
People of African descent comprise more than 12% of the U.S. population. PennWest California’s undergraduate minor in African American studies provides an opportunity to look closely at their experiences, traditions and impact on the United States and the world.
Broaden your cultural awareness with this 21-credit minor at PennWest California — the only African American studies minor offered by Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, and one of a just handful of similar programs in our region.
Students who select this interdisciplinary minor at PennWest California choose from a broad selection of courses addressing historical, cultural, sociological, political, psychological, literary and artistic factors that affect the lives of African Americans.
This minor program emphasizes intellectual dialogue, research methods and critical analysis — crucial skills that complement any major and are essential in a wide variety of careers.
Choose electives that match your interests.
To complete the African American studies minor, students must take three required courses, then choose four additional electives. The wide variety of course options allows you to study topics that match your personal or academic interests.
While completing the minor, PennWest California students may use these courses to fulfill the multicultural requirement on the general education menu, or the non-Western course requirement for students in specific liberal arts programs, such as history.
Extend learning beyond the classroom.
Students in the African American studies minor are encouraged to enhance their learning by attending presentations and other out-of-class activities. Events such as PennWest California’s annual Hip-Hop Conference connect contemporary African American culture and classroom learning.
Students also may have opportunities to attend conferences or to publish their work in academic journals. The National Council on Black Studies and the African Studies Association, for example, offer publishing opportunities for students.
