African American Studies
A.A. Degree African-American Studies · College of Alameda · 2026-2027 Catalog
The AA degree in African-American Studies will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the major course requirements listed below and the General Education requirements for the Associate in Arts Degree listed in the Degrees and Programs section of this Catalog.
The discipline of African American Studies at the College Of Alameda will give you a deep appreciation and understanding of the impact that people of African descent have had on the ancient and modern worlds. You will draw from multiple academic disciplines, including history, sociology, communication, literature, art, dance, anthropology, and political science. Through these academic lenses you will gain a broader understanding of the African diasporic experience in the U.S. and beyond as you will critically analyze the struggles, triumphs, and rich traditions both past and present. You will learn from instructors who are active in the community and their areas of academic specialization. Students in African American Studies at the College of Alameda can elect to study in Africa during the summer session through our study abroad program to Accra Ghana. Future study abroad opportunities within the African diaspora will include Mexico, Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica, and Brazil.
Career Opportunities
African American studies graduates from the College Of Alameda are prepared to work in many situations requiring appreciation of cultural diversity, gender equity, and social awareness. Recent graduates have gone on to pursue four year degrees at Cal, Davis, UCLA, Howard, SFSU, and other major colleges throughout the country and abroad. Other COA scholars have elected to peruse professional careers in, politics, social service programs, counseling services, nonprofits, and other community based organizations.
Learning Outcome(s)
- Students will learn about the rich history and vast contributions that African Americans have made to the U.S. and beyond.
- Students will study the multidimensions of the African diaspora throughout the world by analyzing the various arts, sciences, literatures, political movements, and national identities.
- Students will be exposed to the African/African American struggle for social justice and equality throughout the diaspora.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | 18 | |
| AFRAM 30 | African American History: Africa to 1865 | 3 |
| AFRAM 31 | African American History: 1865-1945 | 3 |
| AFRAM 32 | African American History: 1945 to Present | 3 |
| AFRAM 18 | African Heritage of Latin America | 3 |
| SOC 5 | Minority Groups | 3 |
| AFRAM 5 | The African American Family in the United States | 3 |
| Recommended GE Elective Choices: 3 or more courses from the following: | 9 | |
| AFRAM 8 | African American Politics | 3 |
| AFRAM 14A | Social Psychology of African American Male/Female Relationships | 3 |
| PSYCH 18 | Psychology of Race and Ethnicity in the U.S. | 3 |
| ENGL 31 | Survey of African-American Literature | 3 |
| Total Units required for Major: 18 | 18 | |
| Required Peralta General Education Units | 34 | |
| Total Units Required for A.A. Degree | 60 | |
| Total Units Required for A.A. Degree | 60 | |