Introduction to African American Studies 2025

Winning: Visions of Victory

The course will introduce students to major organizations, events, movements, figures, issues, terms (language), and ideology related to Black life and culture as it surveys multiple fields of study from a Black perspective. Students will become familiar with the terrain of Africana Studies. The course will examine the productions and representations of African people in the arts, humanities, politics, spiritual traditions, and entertainment. The connections between ideology, identity, and public policy will be thoroughly examined.

WHAT YOU’LL GET

• Expert-led instruction from renowned scholars and community leaders
• Engaging lectures, interactive workshops, and global classroom engagements
• A global perspective on African American history and culture
• A supportive community of learners
• A certificate of completion upon successful course completion

MONTHLY COURSE TOPICS

January – Africa                                                                         July – Black Education

February – Slavery: Resistance and Resilience                   August – Black Religion

March – Reconstruction and the Fight for Equality            September – Black Psychology

April – Great Migration: A New Era of                                   October – Black Sociology / Politics

Black American Life

May – Civil Rights Movement                                                  November – Black Creative Production

June – Black Power                                                                    December – Black Economics

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is this course for? The course is designed for individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are passionate about learning about African American history and culture.

Why was this course created? This course was created to make knowledge of self-accessible to all and to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Who are the professors? Scholars and expert practitioners will lead the explanation of knowledge, but all participants will contribute.

How will this course benefit me? African American Studies is an interdisciplinary field that can open doors to a variety of career paths and can enhance personal growth. By taking this course, you can gain valuable insights and an expanded, more wholistic understanding of history, sociology, politics, and cultural studies.

Course Certificate Requirements? Engage two events per month and attend a quarterly teach in (essays may be substituted for the teach-in attendance).

How much time will this course take? A minimum of 5-6 hours per month of course time. An additional minimum of 4 hours for quarterly teach-ins.

Can I participate in class from my cellphone? Events will be offered virtually, hybrid and/or in person.