African & African American Studies
Study the history, culture, and global impact of the African diaspora.
Inside African & African American Studies.
African & African-American Studies examines the history, literature, politics, and cultural contributions of African and African-descended peoples.
Grounded in Claflin's legacy, the interdisciplinary major builds critical analysis and cultural fluency valued across many fields.
Students in African & African-American Studies learn in small, mentorship-driven classes, work closely with faculty on research and creative projects, and build a portfolio of real-world experience before they graduate.
What You'll Learn
- 01Explain major issues in African and African American history, culture, and society
- 02Apply interdisciplinary humanities and social-science methods
- 03Conduct research on Africa and the African diaspora
- 04Complete a thesis or senior project and present findings
Why This Program
- Interdisciplinary study across history and the humanities
- Rooted in Claflin's HBCU legacy
- Strong pre-law and graduate-school preparation
What You'll Study.
Major Requirements
- 0137 credit hours of major requirements
General Education
- 0139 semester credit hours
Electives
- 0118-credit minor
- 0226 credit hours of free electives
- 03Total program requirement: 120 credit hours
Downloadable curriculum sheet — coming soon
Where This Degree Takes You.
Common Job Titles
- Educator
- Researcher
- Community Advocate
- Policy Analyst
- Cultural Program Director
Graduate School Options
- Graduate and professional school
- Discipline-specific master's programs
- Doctoral and research programs
Industry Sectors
- Education
- Cultural Institutions
- Public Service
- Nonprofit
Salary outcomes vary by role and region — connect with Claflin Career Services for current, verified data for this field.
Add program placement rate and outcomes data
Experiential learning
Learn by Doing.
Real experience is built into the program — from internships and research to service learning and study abroad.
Internships
Placements with regional employers and partners connected to the Department of History, Philosophy & Religion.
Undergraduate Research
Mentored, faculty-led research beginning as early as the first year.
Field Experiences
Site visits, practica, and community-based learning that apply classroom theory.
Service Learning
Projects that connect coursework to Orangeburg and the surrounding community.
Study Abroad
Global programs coordinated through the Office of Global Programs.
Learn from Dedicated Scholars.
Sample roster — replace with the department's faculty records.
Faculty Name
Chair, Department of History, Philosophy & Religion
History & religious studies
Outcomes That Speak for Themselves.
Sample spotlights — replace with real student & alumni stories.
“The African & African-American Studies program gave me the mentorship and hands-on experience to step confidently into my career.”
“My professors knew me by name and pushed me to do work I didn't know I was capable of.”
Related programs
You Might Also Explore.
Students interested in African & African American Studies often consider these related programs.
How to Apply.
Requirements
- Completed Claflin University application
- Official high school transcript (or college transcripts for transfers)
- Self-reported test scores (test-optional pathways available)
- Personal statement and any program-specific materials
Deadlines
- Fall priority: November 1 — Spring priority: November 15
- Rolling admission after priority dates while space remains
- Financial aid: complete the FAFSA by the published priority date
Application Process
- 01Submit your free application online
- 02Send official transcripts and supporting documents
- 03Connect with your admissions counselor
- 04Receive your decision and financial aid package
Answer the call
Your African & African American Studies Journey Starts Here.
Take the next step toward a Claflin education — apply, request information, or schedule a visit today.