African American Studies

African American studies describe the systematic investigation into the vast range of racial, ethnic, cultural and political perspectives, experiences and beliefs of people of African heritage around the globe, with particular focus on the African Diaspora in the United States. Students emerge from Saint Louis University's African American Studies, B.A. program with a rigorous understanding of the histories, philosophies, culture and literature emergent from the African Diaspora, thus enabling them to embark on careers in education, law, politics, business and the arts. 

African American studies offer students the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the vast diversity of the society in which they live. Students will become knowledgeable about the African diaspora and be prepared to seek careers or professional programs where they can utilize knowledge in the design and implementation of programs for African Americans and other diasporic communities.

Our students, staff and faculty come from a range of backgrounds, experiences and fields of study. Collectively, our mission is to combine rigorous study, creativity and research in the production and exchange of knowledge concerning the African Diaspora.

We aim to foster a community of thinkers, scholars, activists and artists whose work enriches understanding of how African Americans and other African Diasporic communities have mutually shaped the social worlds they inhabit.

SLU's African American studies major is open to all students pursuing an undergraduate degree, regardless of race, ethnicity or national origin.

Send transcripts of all secondary work.

Find out from your admission counselor what secondary credentials are required. We’ll evaluate how you’ve done in school up to this point, so please send all transcripts for secondary work, along with their English language translations.

Submit proof of your English language proficiency.

These are scores from any standardized test you may have taken to prepare for college — TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, SAT, ACT or Duolingo score. All of our international applicants are required to demonstrate their English proficiency, and these tests can help us make that determination.

If you do not meet SLU’s direct entry requirements, we encourage you to apply to the Pathway or English Language programs offered by INTO Saint Louis University.

Recommended items.

Though not required for admission, submission of a resume of activities and letters of recommendation is encouraged. All undergraduate applicants are also encouraged to complete an admission interview.

Majoring in African American studies gives students the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the pluralistic society they live in. 

Career options include:

• Advertising agent
• Business manager
• City planner
• Community relations specialist
• Copy editor
• Creative writer
• Educator/professor
• Health administrator
• Journalist
• Lawyer
• Linguist
• Museum curator
• Paralegal
• Policy analyst
• Psychologist
• Sociologist
• University administrator