Overview

The Black Studies programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides a multidisciplinary exploration of the African diaspora and the global Black experience. This pioneering department focuses on the intersectional realities of race, gender, and class to foster a deep understanding of social justice and freedom movements.

Students benefit from a curriculum that spans various academic fields, including sociology, political science, and performance studies. By examining the historical and contemporary lives of Black people across the United States, the Caribbean, and Africa, the course prepares graduates to engage critically with complex global issues.

Why Black Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

Established in 1969 as the first department of its kind in the University of California system, this programme carries a rich legacy of student activism and intellectual leadership. It was founded on the principle that academic study and community needs are inseparable, maintaining a strong commitment to social justice.

The department brings together a diverse faculty of scholars who specialise in transnational perspectives. Students explore unique themes such as the Black radical tradition, environmental justice, and digital studies, ensuring they remain at the forefront of modern academic discourse and social change.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14934 per year
National fee: USD 14934 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

History
Sociology
Anthropology
Psychology
Political Science
Performance Studies
Comparative Literature
Environmental Justice
Digital Studies

Careers with Black Studies

Graduates from this programme are equipped with versatile analytical and communication skills, leading to successful careers in various professional sectors. Many alumni pursue pathways in law, education, and social work, applying their knowledge of intersectional justice to real-world challenges.

The degree also prepares students for roles within non-profit organisations and community leadership. Notable employers of graduates from this department include major media entities like NBCUniversal, as well as prestigious academic institutions and advocacy groups such as Trauma Informed LA.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

African-American Studies

African-American Studies - Honors

Race and Racism

The Civil Rights Movement

The Psychology of Blacks

Africa and United States Policy

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies Psychology View 808 other Bachelors in Area & Cultural Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The University of California sets slightly different criteria for applicants who are not California residents. If you are an out-of-state applicant, you must meet the same admission requirements as a California resident student.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Out-of-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Black Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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