Exploring African-American Studies Courses at UCLA
The Department of African-American Studies at UCLA offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the experiences of people of African descent, both in the United States and worldwide. This article delves into the courses, opportunities, and resources available within the program, drawing upon information from the UCLA General Catalog and the department itself.
Navigating the UCLA General Catalog
The UCLA General Catalog serves as the primary resource for information regarding courses, instructor designations, curricular degree requirements, and fees. It’s important to note that the catalog is published annually in both PDF and HTML formats, and while every effort is made to ensure accuracy, all information is subject to change or deletion without notice. Therefore, students are advised to consult the catalog regularly for the most current and officially approved details. Additional information about UCLA can be found through the various schools, including Arts and Architecture; Dentistry; Education and Information Studies; Engineering and Applied Science; Law; Management; Medicine; Music; Nursing; Public Affairs; Public Health; and Theater, Film, and Television.
The African-American Studies Major
The African-American Studies major at UCLA provides a focused path for students to explore the origins, experiences, and conditions of people of African descent across the globe. To be admitted to the major, students must fulfill specific requirements, including completing AfAmer 1, maintaining good academic standing, and formally registering with the department. The program culminates in a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree.
Interdisciplinary Approach and Course Offerings
The Department offers a wide range of courses that hold historical and conceptual significance. These courses employ an interdisciplinary and theoretical lens to foster an understanding of the development of the African American experience and the African Diaspora from a global and transcultural perspective. The department maintains formal linkages to various disciplines, enriching the learning experience. These disciplines include anthropology, gender and sexuality studies, history, law, literature, music, philosophy, political science, psychology, and sociology.
Faculty members provide students with courses spanning diverse fields such as African studies, art, education, ethnomusicology, geography, information studies, management, political economy, psychology, public health, religious studies, society and genetics, theater, and world arts and cultures/dance.
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Elective Opportunities
African-American Studies majors and minors have several options for earning course credit through electives. These options include:
- Internship with an individual professor (Af-Amer 195): This provides hands-on research experience.
- CAAP quarter in Washington D.C.: This offers a unique opportunity to study and intern in the nation's capital.
- Honors courses or Honors thesis: For students seeking advanced academic challenges.
For the internship with an individual professor (Af-Amer 195), it's essential to contact the faculty member you wish to serve as your mentor well in advance. Students should select a faculty member whose research interests align with their own. Contact the African-American Studies office for assistance in reaching the individual professor teaching the course in order to enroll in the course.
Department Welcome and Support
The Department extends a warm welcome to all, especially to matriculating students, incoming undergraduate majors and minors, the department’s incoming graduate student cohort, and the Chancellor Postdoctoral Fellow. The department encourages support through donations to assist students in their educational journey at UCLA.
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