African and African American Studies, BA


Follow your passions by taking a broad selection of courses that allow you to explore important issues from different historical, cultural, sociological, political and psychological perspectives. Then allow that passion and knowledge to benefit others in any of a variety of arenas.

Program Description

The African and African American studies program at ASU has assembled a dynamic faculty engaged in investigating the riveting complexities of Africa.

Trained in a variety of disciplines that include anthropology, health, history, journalism, literature, sociology, political science and women's studies, the faculty guide students as they examine a wide array of critical issues facing African-descended peoples across the stages of life at various times and places in history.

In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit the college's website for more information and requirements.



Required Courses (Major Map)

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What if: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.


At a Glance: program details

  • Location: Tempe campus, or online
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: Yes
  • First Required Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
  • Math Intensity: General program math intensity general

Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.



Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.



Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

Science and Technology Policy, MSTP

How can science and technology improve people's lives and reduce inequity and injustice? Advances in science and technology open up tremendous opportunities, but only if they are developed responsibly. This program draws on some of the world's foremost experts to prepare you for success in building a technologically complex future.

Website | Locations: TEMPE


Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.



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Career Outlook

Because of its emphasis on various social aspects and groups, the African and African American studies program provides students with practical applications useful for various workplaces. This program helps students develop cultural sensitivity and prepares them for careers in:

  • administration
  • advertising
  • business
  • counseling
  • education
  • health care
  • human resources
  • international relations
  • journalism
  • justice
  • law

Graduates are prepared for work in many arenas; some examples:

  • business --- corporations, hotel chains, public relations firms, sales departments, the insurance industry, travel agencies
  • civic --- civil rights organizations, nonprofit organizations, social service agencies, the Peace Corps
  • education --- colleges and universities, museums, research organizations
  • government --- law firms, political action groups

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Anthropology Professor


  • Growth: 4.0%
  • Median Salary*: $85,000
  Bright Outlook

High School Teacher


  • Growth: 1.0%
  • Median Salary*: $62,360

History Professor


  • Growth: 1.3%
  • Median Salary*: $79,400

Investment Fund Manager


  • Growth: 16.0%
  • Median Salary*: $139,790
  Bright Outlook

Judge


  • Growth: 2.2%
  • Median Salary*: $151,030

Lawyer


  • Growth: 7.5%
  • Median Salary*: $135,740
  Bright Outlook

Mediator


  • Growth: 5.0%
  • Median Salary*: $64,030

Political Analyst


  • Growth: 6.6%
  • Median Salary*: $128,020

Political Science Professor


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: $83,770
  Bright Outlook

Social Services Director


  • Growth: 9.1%
  • Median Salary*: $74,240
  Bright Outlook

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



Global Opportunities

Global Experience

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu



Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.



Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.