Bachelor's Degree in African American and Africana Studies
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
Students who are passionate about exploring the histories, cultures, and contributions of African American and African diasporic communities should consider a minor in African American and Africana Studies. This program is ideal for those pursuing careers in education, social justice, public policy, law, the arts, or any field where a deep understanding of race, identity, and cultural diversity is valuable.
Program Overview
The African American and Africana Studies degree allows students to complete an interdisciplinary program of study that draws together the multifaceted understanding of the Africana experience. The rich and challenging course work addresses historical, cultural, sociological, political, and psychological factors that affect the lives of people of African descent worldwide. Students will develop the breadth of knowledge indicative of a liberal arts education, and enhance their critical thinking and writing, analysis, and communication skills. The African American and Africana Studies degree will be beneficial for a wide range of students who plan to work in communication and media, education, law, health care, non-profit, and government.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Arts in African American & Africana Studies offers students an interdisciplinary exploration of the histories, cultures, and contributions of people of African descent around the world. Through coursework in history, literature, politics, sociology, and the arts, students critically examine the global Black experience and engage with issues of race, identity, inequality, and social justice. The program fosters analytical thinking, cultural understanding, and a commitment to equity—preparing graduates for careers in education, public service, advocacy, law, and more. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
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These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
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Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
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Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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