African American Studies

Lift every voice

When you pursue a minor in African American studies, you will examine, analyze and interpret the experiences and traditions of people of African descent. You will learn to evaluate the African American experience through historical, cultural, social, economic and political influence lenses.

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Why study African American Studies at Millsaps?

In their own words

Kennedy Nicholas, Class of 2024

"This program helped me understand that African American culture is not monolithic. It has broad subcultures, which continue to influence the American way of life. Working toward a minor has illuminated many of the misconceptions attached to African Americans and has opened my eyes.”

Kenington McDavid, Class of 2024

"I wanted to be a psychiatrist from a young age, because I understood how having access to mental health resources improves overall well-being. Having an African American studies minor has helped me understand better the struggles that the Black community faces in the medical field.”

Jaylen Smith

"This program is about shaping a more inclusive and equitable future. It empowers us to challenge the stereotypes, dismantle systems built against us and harness the power of our voices. We gain a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of humanity and the richness found in diversity.”

Featured Courses

Here is a sampling of a few courses that might pique your interest.

GOVT 2300 Politics of the American South

Examine the governmental, electoral, historical, economic, social and cultural variables in the American South. Also included are the vast changes that have occurred in Southern politics in the past century.

SOAN 3600 African Americans and Latinos

Explore the historical and contemporary experiences of African Americans and Latinos in the U.S. Examine the nature and dynamics of racial and ethnic relations in various institutions.

Degree Options

Discover your degrees, minors, concentrations and certification options available for this field of study.

Minor in African American Studies

To complete the minor, you must complete 20 hours of coursework designated as appropriate. Four of the 20 required hours will be fulfilled through the completion of SOAN 3600: African Americans and Latinos or HIST 3170 Afro-American Heritage.

Self-Designed Major

Design a major to best fit your personality, career goals and specific educational needs. The self-designed major is a customized major that you design, working closely with appropriate faculty. Create your own African American Studies major.

Pathways

Our curriculum emphasizes problem solving and critical thinking skills essential to any career (and therefore any Pathway), as well as scientific writing and experimentation skills that may be especially critical to students interested in any of our six Pathways tracks.

Learn More About Pathways