African Studies Minor (HBA)
Admissions Category: Social Sciences & Humanities
Program Overview
Students in the will explore African history, culture, economies, political systems and artistic expression. A study of Africa provides students with a complex and rich understanding of the most important political issues now being directly faced: environmental degradation, sharing of resources, neocolonialism, challenges faced by the nation-state, pandemics, and gender inequality. Students in this program will explore the interconnections with Europe, Asia and America; Africa鈥檚 central role in world history and processes of globalization; African, Caribbean and African-American cultural and artistic responses to modernity; racism, and liberation.
Complementary Programs:
Major or Minor Programs in , Political Science, History, , Women鈥檚 and Gender Studies, Critical Migration Studies and Sociology
Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:
Competencies & Skills
- Understand connections between Africa鈥檚 past and present
- Critically engage with African cultures and values
- Examine selected issues in African ethnography
- Gather, review, evaluate and interpret information
- Present information and ideas clearly
- Develop interdisciplinary analytical skills
Careers for Graduates
- Activist
- Ambassador
- Charity Director
- Community Worker
- Foreign Correspondent
- Foreign Services Officer
- Government Administrator
- Historical Researcher
- Institutional Researcher
- Journalist
- Lobbyist
- Policy Advisor
- Political Advisor
Further Education
- Literature
- History
- Education
- International Development
- Political Science
- Law School
- Paralegal Studies
- Journalism
- Public Relations
Program Pathway
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 1.0 credit as follows: [or ], [or ].
- Explore different kinds of courses; this will also help with fulfilling breadth requirements and electives.
- Use to plan your courses and program of interest: uoft.me/degree planning.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Schedule an appointment with your Program Librarian for in-depth research assistance with your assignments.
- Get writing support and develop your Academic English skills at .
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
- Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Get involved with the (IDSSA); also explore other relevant student clubs and activities on campus.
- Volunteer in DSL鈥檚 Alternative Reading Week program to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Volunteer with organizations to expand your interests 鈥 check listings on (Jobs & Recruitment).
- Attend the in September and/or register with SCSU鈥檚 to explore opportunities.
Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 1.0 credit from A-level, B-level, C-level and D-level courses (taken in Year 1-4 depending on level) in , , and courses (check UTSC Calendar for details).
- Use and meet with your Program Advisor or Supervisor to ensure you are on track with your degree.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Further develop your general academic skills by attending workshops offered by the (AA&CC) and Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL).
Apply Theory to Practice
- Get involved in relevant opportunities on and/or off campus, e.g., apply to Work Study, or other part-time and summer jobs on (Jobs & Recruitment).
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Check (Jobs & Recruitment) to search for Work Study or volunteer positions on campus to gain experience and to get involved.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
- Explore careers through the AA&CC鈥檚 and programs.
Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 2.0 credits from A-level, B-level, C-level and D-level courses (taken in Year 1-4 depending on level) in , , , , , , and (check UTSC Calendar for details).
- Use to ensure you are on track with your degree.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
Consider competing for the or
Apply Theory to Practice
- Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, , DSL and the .
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Run for an elected position in the
- Look into volunteering or working overseas to expand your network through International Student Centre鈥檚 (ISC) Global Learning programs.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Plan a career path with a staff member at the .
- Check for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
- Attend the in September.
Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- Ensure you have fulfilled your breadth requirements.
- Use to ensure you are on track to graduate.
- Register your 鈥淚ntent to Graduate鈥 on by the deadline.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Apply for an Academic Travel Fund through DSL to research, present at a conference, or engage with the international academic community.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for relevant summer and full-time positions.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Participate in the AA&CC鈥檚 program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning to work or further education.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Attend the AA&CC鈥檚 job search conference in April/May.
- Attend the orientation for a job search 鈥渃rash course鈥; find job opportunities on CLNx.
- Get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.
- Speak to your Program Advisor about applying to grad studies and get your personal statement reviewed in the .