Undergraduate Programs

Why Choose African Studies?  

African studies is not only a way to understand Africa, it is a way to expand your understanding of the world and its histories. Our program focuses on the study and analysis of sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and the wider African diaspora. An African studies minor enriches your understanding of the social, economic, cultural, historical, linguistic, geopolitical, ecological, and biomedical factors that shape African societies.

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Minor in African Studies

Interested in exploring Africa’s diversity and and analyzing the issues of contemporary life on the continent? In interdisciplinary courses taught by professors from a wide range of departments, you can study the geopolitical factors that shape African societies while learning Swahili, Arabic, Portuguese, or French—or travel back in time to discover ancient Egypt and West African kingdoms.

Minor Requirements 


Learn an African Language

Develop your skills in an African language spoken by millions of people around the globe. Students in the African Studies program can take three years of Arabic or Swahili language courses and earn credits toward their minor.

African Languages


Students at a clinic in Accra

Get Real-World Experience

Deepen your understanding of African societies by studying in another part of the world, develop vital job skills in a global internship, or share your passion for African studies by raising community awareness of African culture.

Experiential Learning

An archway in Ghana

What You Can Do with an African Studies Degree

An African studies minor can prepare you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and hear from alumni.

Explore Careers


Advising and Academic Support

Schedule an appointment with an advisor and get your questions answered.

Departmental Advising and Support

Scholarships and Awards

Learn about ways to apply for funding to support your studies.

Explore Scholarships and Awards


Events

Three Minute Thesis Competition
Nov21
Three Minute Thesis Competition Nov 21 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Women in Economics Club
Nov21
Women in Economics Club Nov 21 Allen Hall
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire"
Nov21
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire" Nov 21 Miller Theatre Complex
Human Physiology Seminar Speaker: Dr. David Doolette, Scientific Director, U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit
Nov22
Human Physiology Seminar Speaker: Dr. David Doolette, Scientific Director, U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit Nov 22 Lawrence Hall
Organic/Inorganic/Materials Chemistry Seminar: Hazardous Waste Determinations and New TSCA Legislation at University of Oregon
Nov22
Organic/Inorganic/Materials Chemistry Seminar: Hazardous Waste Determinations and New TSCA Legislation at University of Oregon Nov 22 Willamette Hall
Cultural Rhythms - Dance Traditions From Around the World
Nov22
Cultural Rhythms - Dance Traditions From Around the World Nov 22 Yamada Language Center
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire"
Nov22
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire" Nov 22 Miller Theatre Complex
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire"
Nov23
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire" Nov 23 Miller Theatre Complex
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire"
Nov24
University Theatre Presents "Frankenstein: Playing with Fire" Nov 24 Miller Theatre Complex
Department of History Coffee Hour
Nov26
Department of History Coffee Hour Nov 26 McKenzie Hall