At a Glance
I’m interested in this field of study. Can you tell me more about it?
Africana studies examines the experiences of people of African heritage worldwide from a variety of academic disciplines. Our professors include scholars from several fields, including art, history, literature, music, philosophy, politics, psychology, sociology, and religious studies.
What are some courses appropriate for first-year students interested in exploring this field of study?
We recommend that you take Introduction to Africana Studies during your first year at Scripps.
If I decide to major or minor in this field, are there certain courses that need to be taken in a specific sequence?
We suggest taking Introduction to Africana Studies followed by Research Methods in Africana Studies. Both courses are required for the major and minor.
Can students who major or minor in this field complete a second major or minor (as a double major or a major/minor combination)? If so, what are some common pairings?
Yes! We have seen all kinds of pairings with Africana studies, including psychology, biology, and more.
What other useful information should I know about this field of study?
You will be in the classroom with great faculty and students from across The Claremont Colleges. Reach out to us to learn more!
Scripps Catalog link to specific requirements for the major/minor:
https://www.scrippscollege.edu/departments/africana-studies
Additional links to information relevant for new student registration:
https://colleges.claremont.edu/africana-studies/
The Intercollegiate Department of Africana Studies offers a multidisciplinary curriculum that examines the experiences of African, African American, and Caribbean people from the liberal arts perspective. The Africana Studies curriculum helps to unify an important area of intellectual investigation, and enhances appreciation of particular disciplines in the humanities and the social sciences. Courses accommodate the needs of majors and non-majors, providing significant preparation for careers in education, social work, public policy, law, medicine, business, international relations, and advanced research.
Students majoring in Africana Studies must complete at least 11 courses plus a senior thesis. While six of these courses are expected to be at the upper-division level, credit will be given where appropriate to courses numbered lower than 100. Some flexibility is allowed in the selection and distribution of courses; however, Introduction to Africana Studies and the senior thesis are required of all majors.