The African Studies Program encourages teaching and scholarship on sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and the wider African diaspora while pursuing a minor or graduate specialization. Students will develop a critical understanding of Africa’s geography and diversity, while examining and analyzing issues relevant to contemporary life on the continent.
Incoming Students - Minor in African Studies
Our program brings together professors from a wide range of departments with expertise on Africa, offering undergraduates the opportunity to study African culture and history or learn languages such as Swahili, Arabic, Portuguese, or French. Students within the African Studies program help promote awareness of African's diverse cultures through campus and community events while cultivating a vibrant intellectual community through lectures, seminars, and cultural activities.
Current UO Students - Enrich your Learning
A minor in African studies helps students understand and become part of an increasingly globalized world. Our students develop a broad, interdisciplinary knowledge of Africa, which can provide the first steps for careers in diplomatic services, international development, or as a researcher. Within our program, you'll cultivate language skills, knowledge about history and contemporary conditions, and awareness of how the continent fits into today’s world.
Graduate Students - Specialize in African Studies
The African studies graduate specialization is a flexible program that engages current MA and PhD students more deeply in the study of Africa and the African diaspora. It provides the opportunity to enhance your background in African Studies-related education and research, engage in intellectual discourse within our vibrant community of scholars, and pursue new potential career pathways.
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Oregon and other external funders offer several relevant scholarships and fellowships to help support students’ studies, including for study abroad and language learning. Graduate students can apply for available graduate employee teaching positions in African Studies for funding.