BA with a Major in Black Studies

Program Overview

The BA in Black Studies at the University of Illinois Chicago equips students with a critical understanding of the Black experience, history, and culture. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum, students develop analytical and research skills, a commitment to social justice, and preparation for careers in fields such as education, social work, and law.

Program Outline

Degree Overview: BA with a Major in Black Studies at University of Illinois Chicago

Objectives:

• The program aims to develop students' critical understanding of the Black experience, history, and culture in the United States and globally.
• It equips students with analytical and research skills to critically analyze social issues related to race, ethnicity, and power dynamics.
• It fosters a commitment to social justice and activism through engaging with diverse perspectives within the field of Black Studies.

Program Description:

This BA program offers a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum encompassing various aspects of the Black experience. Students explore Black history, literature, art, music, politics, and social movements within the United States and the African diaspora, gaining a deeper understanding of the complex realities of Black life. The program features:

• Core Courses:
Introduce foundational concepts and theories in Black Studies, covering crucial topics like Black diaspora studies, the production of knowledge within Black Studies, and Black lives in historical context.
• Thematic Areas:
Delve deeper into specific areas of interest within Black Studies, categorized as
• Black Queer and Feminist Studies
• Cultural Production and Analysis
• Diasporic and Transnational Studies
• Race, Politics, and Institutions
• Electives:
Provide opportunities to explore additional interests within Black Studies or related disciplines, allowing students to personalize their learning journey.

Overall, the BA in Black Studies equips graduates with:

• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• In-depth knowledge of Black history, culture, and社会议题
• Research and communication proficiency
• A commitment to social justice and activism

Outline:

The Black Studies program follows a structured curriculum with specific course requirements.

Required Courses (33-36 credit hours):

• Introduction to Black Studies
• Introduction to Black Diaspora Studies
• Black Studies and the Production of Knowledge
(fulfills Writing-in-the-Discipline requirement)
• Black Lives in Historical Context
• Senior Seminar in Black Studies
• Select one history course
from a provided list
• One course from each of the four thematic categories:
Black Queer and Feminist Studies, Cultural Production and Analysis, Diasporic and Transnational Studies, Race, Politics, and Institutions. However, it likely follows a semester system with specific courses offered in Fall and Spring semesters. However, based on the course descriptions, it can be inferred that modules will cover specific topics within the chosen thematic area, such as exploring Black feminist thought, analyzing Black art and music, or studying the history of the African diaspora.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods likely vary depending on the specific course.
• Methods may include essays, exams, research papers, presentations, and class participation.
• Assessment criteria focus on students' abilities to critically analyze texts, apply theoretical frameworks, demonstrate research skills, and articulate arguments effectively.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods likely incorporate a combination of lectures, discussions, group activities, and independent research projects.
• Faculty members are experts in their respective fields within Black Studies, bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the classroom.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for various careers in fields like:
• Education
• Social work
• Community development
• Journalism
• Law
• Public policy
• Research and academia
• Arts and culture
• The program also provides a strong foundation for pursuing further graduate studies in Black Studies or related disciplines.

Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of community engagement and social justice.
• Students have opportunities to participate in internships, research projects, and community-based learning experiences.
• The Black Studies department offers resources such as advising, tutoring, and mentorship programs to support student success.