Africana Studies Major

About our program

Journey into the rich tapestry of African, African American and Caribbean cultures and histories. As an Africana studies major, you’ll explore the significant contributions and perspectives of the Africana world through an interdisciplinary curriculum that spans the humanities, social sciences, business and communication. 

You'll dive deep into research, collaborate on projects that highlight key societal issues, and engage in internships that offer real-world experience in fields like social justice, education and public policy. Service-learning is integral here, linking you with community projects that not only broaden your understanding but also positively impact those around you. 

And because everything we learn and do is in service to the greater good, you’ll graduate with both comprehensive expertise and the vision and skill to make meaningful contributions to communities, helping to foster a just world for all.   

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in Africana studies from Marquette?

The interdisciplinary curriculum and multidisciplinary nature of this major provides the skills that are the core of a strong liberal arts education — writing and analysis, critical thinking, communication and research — to equip students for a variety of professional abilities.  

A degree in Africana studies prepares you to enter any career field, whether it's the arts, medicine, education, law or business. 

  • Advertising 
  • Community and public affairs 
  • Communication 
  • Consulting 
  • Counseling 
  • Economic affairs 
  • Education 
  • Government relations 
  • Human resources 
  • International affairs 
  • Journalism 
  • Marketing 
  • Media 
  • Nonprofit organizations 
  • Student affairs 

collage of a building and faculty member talking to students

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.   

 

Professional experience

As an Africana studies major, you'll have lots of career options. Help decide the direction you'll take — and get valuable professional experience — with an internship. Internships can include working in a variety of professional settings in Milwaukee and nationwide. Our internship program is here to help you find the best option for you. 

Discover Arts and Sciences internship opportunities. 

Undergraduate research

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to follow your interests here, like volunteering with a faculty member whose research area intrigues you or completing your own independent study. 

Here are some of the topics our faculty are researching now: 

  • Immigration and American ethnic history 
  • Ethnicity in Black literatures 
  • Conflict studies 
  • Expressionism 
  • Museums, mobilities, tourism and leisure studies 
  • Post-colonialism and race theory 

Learn more about research in the Languages, Literatures and Cultures department.

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the drivers of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for Africana studies students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research. 

Check out our study abroad programs. 

 

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.