Africana Studies

Students who specialize in Africana studies develop a way of thinking that is interdisciplinary and analytical along with a habit of heart that is cross-culturally empathetic. Explore the history, cultural traditions, politics and economics of the many countries that make up the African continent and countries across the African diaspora. W&M faculty are well trained in intersecting social categories such as race, gender, class and sexuality. You will learn about the diversity of experiences of African people as they have adapted to new lives across the globe.

Paths of Study

What Makes Us Different

Student Organizations

Become a member of E.S.S.E.N.C.E Women of Color (Educating, Strength and Sisterhood by Executing a Nurturing Community of Empowerment), the Black Poets Society and the Syndicate Hip Hop Dance Team.
The Middle Passage Project

Explore the history and impact of the transatlantic slave trade through research, lectures, artistic performances, curriculum development and workshops.
KUUMBA

Write for this annual journal published by the Department of Africana Studies featuring faculty and student work.

Applied Learning

Courses

Study a variety of courses that fit your interests from Caribbean Languages and Identities (AFST 251) to the History of Jazz (AFST 332).*
Research

Explore research tools in Research Methods in Africana Studies (AFST 299), then use those tools to complete a capstone or senior project.
Africana House

Join this living-learning community to broaden your learning experience through activities and a final group project you'll share with the W&M community.
Study Abroad in Cape Town

Learn about South Africa through locally taught classes and service-learning opportunities and explore the area in this summer program.

Outcomes

Africana studies alumni have attended graduate programs in various disciplines and professions. The analytical skills, broad perspectives, leadership experience and creative critical-thinking acquired in this program enable graduates to engage in lifelong learning or to prepare for a myriad of occupational opportunities. Some join the public sector, while others work for a variety of private employers. Many serve as Peace Corps volunteers or join a variety of nonprofit organizations in the United States.

Talk to Us

Want to learn more? Our faculty want to connect with you.