African American Studies is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the experiences, history and cultural productions of people of African descent in the United States. As an academic discipline, African American Studies considers the study of the particular experiences and contributions of African Americans to be a valuable, distinct area of inquiry; it also recognizes the international and intersectional nature of African American life, especially in its ties to Africa, the African diaspora and to other people of color in the United States. Through its emphasis on diverse perspectives and theoretical approaches to race, the minor provides students with a transformative intellectual experience and competencies that will equip them to engage actively with the world. African American Studies serves as a valuable complement to many majors, including anthropology, art history, criminal justice, education, English, history, philosophy, political science, social work and sociology.
For more information, please contact the African American Studies Coordinator, Dr. Emily Field, in the Department of English, at e1field@bridgew.edu.