Africology and African American Studies

Contribute to progressive research and make an impact in the community with the Doctor of Philosophy in Africology and African American Studies in the College of Liberal Arts at Temple University. The Africology and African American Studies PhD is the oldest African American Studies doctoral program in the U.S., and it is deeply committed to the Afrocentric exploration of academic experiences. 

Doctoral students are prepared to engage in a diverse range of intellectual issues that affect the lives of Africans on the continent and in the diaspora. Students are invited to explore topics such as the art, culture, economics, history and politics of Africans, African Americans and people of African descent. 

In addition to a robust curriculum, students pursue specialized research, often through teaching and/or research assistantships. While research is typically independent, students can work closely with faculty members. Africology and African American Studies PhD faculty are leaders in their field, and they are affiliated with leading organizations, including the

• African Literature Association,
• Association for the Study of African American Life and History,
• Association of Black Women Historians, 
• National Council for Black Studies, and 
• Pennsylvania Humanities Council.

The department's faculty also edits the Journal of Black Studies–the top peer-reviewed publication in the academic discipline, to which students have the opportunity to contribute. 

The individual research experience and specialized coursework afforded in the PhD program prepares students for careers in public and private sector areas, including arts and humanities, business, healthcare, and social services. Others continue their research or go on to teach at the collegiate level, inspiring future generations of thought leaders in the field of African American studies. 

University degree requiring four years of study.

Request one certified copy of official transcripts from every college and university you have attended, even if only one course was taken. International degrees must be assessed for equivalency with a U.S. degree based on the characteristics of the national educational system, the type of institution attended and the level of studies completed. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is ordinarily required for admissions consideration. If unofficial transcripts are submitted during the application process, submission of official academic records will be required by the end of your first term of graduate study if you are admitted and subsequently enroll at Temple University.

The advanced skills gained from a graduate degree in the College of Liberal Arts are highly relevant in today's rapidly evolving world. You will form expertise through rigorous coursework and research to meet your professional and personal goals. 

The types of opportunities available to students with a PhD in Africology and African American Studies include the following careers. 

• • Behavioral specialist 
  • College professor/administrator
  • Community urban planner
  • Criminal justice lawyer
  • Cultural resources manager
  • Employment counselor
• • Family/child advocate
  • Foreign service specialist
  • Political analyst
  • Social worker
  • Sociologist