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Majoring in Africana Studies

Majors in Africana Studies must:

  • Take a gateway course (AFST 205, Introduction to Africana Studies),
  • Take a methods course (AFST 399, Africana Studies Methodologies),
  • Complete a language requirement that goes beyond the W&M proficiency requirement, 
  • Choose a regional introductory course, and 
  • Complete a capstone course (AFST 406, AFST 495 and 496, or AFST 499).

The Africana Studies Program offers a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies. Africana Studies is an interdisciplinary field. You will choose electives from both the Social Sciences and the Arts & Humanities. The Undergraduate Catalog details requirements and lists approved electives for each concentration.

New majors and minors will use this AFST Course Planner [pdf] to sketch out how you will fulfill the degree requirements.

You will work with your major advisor to select courses that meet your goals while fulfilling the degree requirements.

For best results, combine your coursework with service learning, study away, or study abroad. Look for opportunities to participate in an internship, civic engagement, or independent research. These experiences give you experience in applying the knowledge you gain outside of the classroom.