About Africana studies
Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding the prospect of majoring in Africana studies, one of the most commonly asked question is: What can I do with a major in Africana studies? The answer is: provide knowledge, information, and a global perspective unlike any other major in the arts or science and much, much more.
A major in Africana studies provides the foundation through which you can guide your personal and professional ambitions. The Africana studies perspective also assists you in understanding the compartmentalized and often disconnected areas of focus within Western education.
Q: What can I do with a degree in Africana studies?
A: The undergraduate degree in Africana studies will prepare you for the complex challenges facing the Black world in the 21st century, locally and globally. Among these challenges are the persistent and arguably deepening "racial gap" in opportunities separating Blacks and Whites in the United States and elsewhere in the African Diaspora and problems arising from the effects of globalization in Africa.
Q: What is Africana studies?
A: Africana studies is the study, research, interpretation, and dissemination of knowledge concerning African American, African, and Caribbean affairs and culture. Using the tools of the social sciences and humanities, Africana studies examines the structure, organization, problems, and perspectives of the peoples of Africa and the African Diaspora. Africana studies also examines issues of politics and social change in African American communities and various African and Caribbean nations. The term "Africana" incorporates the three areas of concentration within the department—African, African American, and diaspora/comparative social sciences and humanities. The African diaspora comprises people of African origin outside the African continent, and is studied in comparative context.
Q: Who should take Africana studies?
A: Contrary to popular belief, Africana studies is for everyone, regardless of ethnic background, race, or culture. Africana studies at the University of Pittsburgh has always had majors from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds. Africana studies is not meant for one type of student but for ALL students, whether you’re from Africa, America, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, South America, or Australia.
Q: What kinds of employment opportunities are available to people who have a degree in Africana studies?
A: EVERYTHING. There are no limitations. Africana studies is excellent preparation for law, politics, public policy, teaching, or business, as well as graduate or professional school. In Africana studies you will gain skills in critical thinking and analysis, problem solving, research methodology, global perspective, writing, and comprehension—all the skills employers are looking for.
