Overview

The African American Studies programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides an expansive interdisciplinary framework for investigating the societies and cultures established by the African diaspora. Students engage with a curriculum designed to explore the complexities of the Black experience through various academic disciplines. This degree encourages deep critical analysis of the social and symbolic orders that have shaped the history and contemporary reality of African people.

The curriculum focuses on several pivotal themes, including the history of colonisation and the forced migration of African populations. Students examine the rhetoric produced by and about African people, while also investigating the aesthetic and cultural values associated with blackness and Africanness.

Why African American Studies at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

Studying at this institution allows students to benefit from a robust Department of African American Studies situated within the prestigious School of Humanities. The programme is distinguished by its commitment to interdisciplinary research, allowing undergraduates to bridge the gap between humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. Students gain a sophisticated understanding of cultural dynamics that is highly valued in today's globalised society.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

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

Syllabus

The major requires the completion of twelve courses, focusing on a foundational series followed by specialised upper-division electives. Modules may include:

African American Studies
Humanities
Gender and Sexuality
History
Fine Arts
Social Sciences
The Black Protest Tradition

Careers with African American Studies

Graduates from University of California, Irvine (UCI) with this degree are well-prepared for the competitive job market and advanced professional study. The in-depth knowledge of African American culture and social dynamics is particularly beneficial for those pursuing careers in medicine and health professions, law, and business. Employers increasingly seek candidates who possess a nuanced understanding of diverse communities and cultural histories.

The analytical and communication skills developed throughout the programme are transferable to various sectors, including public policy, education, and community advocacy. By mastering the complexities of the African diaspora, graduates position themselves as culturally competent professionals capable of working effectively within significant African American populations and diverse organisational environments.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

African American Studies

Topics in African American Studies

Modern African American Art

Early African American Literature

Contemporary African American Art

African American Literature 1900-Present

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 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

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

American and Australasian studies African studies View 258 other Bachelors in African studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

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

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

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

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 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 African American 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

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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