African American Studies Department

You'll learn from many disciplines and explore the histories, societies and cultures of African and African-descended people in the United States and abroad.

With an African American Studies major, you'll explore your responsibilities and opportunities in the world—and how to have an impact both globally and locally.

One of a few programs with departmental status in the state of Ohio.

1959

The year delegates from 100 nations arrived at OHIO to hear Martin Luther King Jr. and others.

1st

John Newton Templeton was the first Black American to earn an advanced degree in Ohio and is believed to be the fourth Black college graduate in the country.

Discovering New Knowledge about African American Literature, Labor, Music & Culture

African American Studies faculty members have made valuable contributions to the field of African American and African Studies in the United States and around the world.

The geographical focus of the department's teaching and research is the United States Black Experience with a particular emphasis in Appalachia.

African American Studies Research

Faculty Research Areas

Preserving Our History

African American Research and Service Institute

The institute encourages interdisciplinary and community-based research related to experiences of people of African descent. Its primary research focus is on African American experiences in rural America, especially the Ohio River Valley.

African American Research and Service Institute

African American Studies Student Experiences — Here and Abroad

In the Community. Around the World. Just a few places you might get hands-on experience.

The 90-year Journey of a Harlem Renaissance Novel

Thanks to Dr. Gary Holcomb, Claude McKay's "Romance in Marseille" groundbreaking and inclusive novel made it to bookshelves.

Dr. Holcomb's Discovery

About Dr. Holcomb

Uzoma Miller Wins MAC Outstanding Faculty Award for Student Success

“Winning this award first represents the best of what both of my parents exposed me to as a youth," Miller says.

What Winning Means to Miller

About Dr. Uzoma Miller

Careers with an African American Studies Degree

Many African American Studies majors have gone on to graduate school and carved for themselves influential careers in a variety of fields, including law, the performing arts, international affairs, religion, politics, education, and business.

African American Studies Careers & Internships

Alumni Engagement & Giving Opportunities

Alumni involvement drives innovation and impact in the African American Studies Department for both students and faculty. Explore the areas of highest need for our department, including supporting students, experiential learning and investing in faculty.

African American Studies Giving Opportunities