Why African American Studies?
Our curriculum helps students learn how to define, measure, interpret and validate Black experiences. Graduates leave us ready to think and to act in order to solve the unstructured problems that confront Black communities.
Learn more about the value of a degree in African American studies.
News
Sept. 12, 2025
VCU students help collect sweatshirts and more for local families
The recent donation drive connects the classroom to the community, College of Humanities and Sciences organizer says.
Sept. 10, 2025
VCU announces recipients of 2025 faculty awards for scholarship, teaching excellence
Interim Provost Beverly J. Warren today announced 30 winners of VCU’s National/International Recognition Awards and 25 winners of the Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation Awards.
Aug. 8, 2025
From fashion to funk, virtual lecture series explores Afrofuturism
In a six-part exclusive on Audible, VCU’s Grace Gipson gives shape to how a movement has influenced our culture.
AFAM Spotlight
Meet a Student
Tarazha Jenkins is passionate about communications and politics, as well as how it can affect the black community. One day she hopes to work on Capitol Hill.
Meet an Alum
Fidelia Igwe ('15) is associate director of College and Career Access at DC Prep in Washington D.C. and CEO/lead consultant of Equitable Minds, LLC.
Meet a Student
Shawn Williams says majoring in African American studies helps them build towards a healthier, inclusive, antiracist future. Read more about Shawn, including her favorite courses, professors and sources of inspiration.