Overview

The Black Studies bachelor degree at Portland State University provides an interdisciplinary exploration of the historical and contemporary experiences of people of African, African American, and Caribbean descent. Students engage with a curriculum that integrates diverse perspectives from various academic departments to foster a deep understanding of the African diaspora. This programme equips graduates with essential skills in research, communication, and community relations.

Why Black Studies at Portland State University?

Portland State University stands as the only higher education institution in the Pacific Northwest to offer a dedicated degree in this field. The department hosts the long-running Black Bag Speaker Series, which has connected students with expert insights since 2006. Students benefit from a vibrant campus environment featuring the Pan-African Commons and active student organisations like the Black Student Union.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the intersections of race, class, and gender while providing a strong foundation in research methodologies. Modules may include:

African Diaspora
Historical Narratives and Impacts
Cultural Experiences and Traditions
Research Methods
Representations in Literature, Art, and Media
Socio-political Ideologies
Resistance and Social Justice

Careers with Black Studies

Graduates are prepared for professional roles in diverse sectors including government, community service, and non-profit agencies. The programme provides a strong foundation for careers in education, museum curation, business, and communications. Many students also progress to graduate study or pursue specialised roles in law enforcement and international relations. Participation in professional bodies like the National Council of Black Studies further enhances graduate employability.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Black Studies

Research Methods in Black Studies

Seminar in African American History

Seminar in African/Caribbean Studies

African Women in Film

African American Literature

Black Feminism/Womanism

Race & Ethnicity in Latin America

Caribbean Studies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-07-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-05 00:00:00
Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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IELTS

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Ethnic Studies View 205 other Bachelors in Ethnic Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

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

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

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

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 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

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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