Associate in Arts Degree in African American Studies

Program Overview

The Africana/African American Studies Program, partnered with San Francisco State University, offers an interdisciplinary curriculum in humanities and social sciences. Its major in African American Studies aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of African and African American experiences, develop critical thinking abilities, and prepare students for careers in diverse fields, including law, public policy, and healthcare. The program emphasizes community engagement and supports students through its strong learning community.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program Name: Africana/African American Studies Program
• Partnership: The program is in partnership with the Africana Studies Department at San Francisco State University (SFSU).
• SFSU Connection: SFSU was the first four-year college to have a Black Studies Department (later changed to Africana Studies).
Contra Costa College patterns its program description and classes after SFSU.
• Curriculum: The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum in the areas of Humanities and the Behavioral and Social Sciences.
• Major: The program offers a major in African American Studies.
• Program Objectives:
• Provides a holistic understanding of the African and African American reality.
• Develops higher-level reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.
• Prepares students to become agents of change in their community, society, and the world.

Assessment:

• Exit Exam: Students who complete the program will be able to successfully complete an exit exam that demonstrates competency in the core courses of the major courses in the degree program.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Students can pursue any career with an Africana/African American Studies degree.
• Preparation: The program provides excellent preparation for careers in law, public policy, government and politics, journalism, education, public health, social work, health care, business, international relations, and many other careers.

Other:

• Learning Community: The program encourages students to check out its "awesome learning community."
• General Education and Transfer Requirements: The classes offered in the program meet General Education requirements and transfer requirements.