Major explores African-American studies

new undergraduate major in African and African-American studies at the University has been approved by the New York State Department of Education. Administered by the Frederick Douglass Institute for African and African-American Studies, the major provides an interdisciplinary program that integrates the social sciences and the humanities and allows students to follow a rigorous and closely monitored course of study designed for broad exposure and in-depth mastery of the field.

"In the last 20 years, African and African-American studies has established itself as a crucial focus in many disciplines," says Larry Hudson Jr., director of the institute and associate professor of history. "Through the Frederick Douglass Institute, the University wants to make Rochester a leader in this field."

The bachelor of arts degree in African and African-American studies is intended to bring together historical, cultural, psychological, economic, and political approaches and perspectives to the study of people of African descent in the Atlantic world, including the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

The new major, which may be tailored to either the humanities or the social sciences, is expected to appeal to students with primary interests in African and African-American topics, says John Michael, curriculum director for the institute and professor of English.

"Students already majoring in history, English, political science, comparative literature, anthropology, or similar disciplines also may find a second major in African and African-American studies an attractive option," he says.

For more information contact Michael at x5-9207.

Maintained by University Public Relations
Please send your comments and suggestions to:
Public Relations.