African and African American Studies Program at Claflin University
Undergraduate Program Objective
The primary objectives of this program are to provide an academic and scholarly framework in which to study the African and African American experience. It is to bring deeper awareness, affirmation and celebration of this experience to both Claflin students and scholars.
Further, it is to nurture the memory of the struggles and advances of the Black experience which have given rise to Claflin University, HBCUs and other institutions such as the Black Church. The other focus of program is to offer an academic and research course of study in AAAS as a major, minor, or program certificate that would lead to a baccalaureate degree in AAAS or another field in preparation for a life of professionalism in the workforce.
It is also understood that in order to navigate through American society and life itself, it is important that students at Claflin University know and study about their world as it impacts and is impacted by societal experiences. Thus, when they leave Claflin University, students of AAAS will play an important role in utilizing their knowledge and understanding in the realm of professional, community and church service.
Understanding Black history, culture, religion and social experiences through AAAS enables students to appreciate their rich heritage, democracy, human ideals and their religious and spiritual ideals. Students are introduced to social and familial relationships within wider society as well governmental and economic influences which substantially affect the Black community. This program is designed to challenge students to think critically and to effectively communicate in a competitive world. It is a program designed to enable students to not only understand and appreciate pre- and post colonial Africa as a continent of immense, complex histories, societies and cultures that are ancestrally linked to the African Diaspora, but also events and experiences of African American life and culture within the context of growing global multi-cultures.
