BLACK Studies
Black Studies Minor at William Jewell
The Black Studies minor provides opportunities to learn, reflect and engage with the history, culture and experiences of Black people. Through interdisciplinary study, students explore the complexity of Black history, the diversity of Black cultural expression and the ways race has shaped systems of oppression and resistance.
Interests & Attributes:
- Arts & Culture
- Health & Human Services
- Humanitarian
Goals for Student Learning
Explore Black History, Culture and Experience
The Black Studies minor offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the history, culture and experiences of Black people. Through coursework across history, race, colonialism, literature and communication, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the complexity of Black history and the many forms of Black cultural expression.
You’ll examine how race has been socially constructed and how racial systems have shaped the experiences of Black communities. Coursework invites you to explore topics such as slavery and abolition, the Black freedom struggle, education, colonialism and the relationship between race and identity, giving you a broader perspective on the historical forces that have shaped Black experiences.
Develop Critical Perspectives and Skills
Through the minor, you’ll explore the ways Black people have resisted oppression and advocated for freedom, equality and justice. You’ll engage with both historical and contemporary issues affecting Black communities while considering how literature, culture, communication and social movements can shape our understanding of the Black experience.
You’ll also develop the critical thinking, research and writing skills needed to thoughtfully analyze historical and cultural expressions. By working with primary and secondary sources, you’ll learn to build informed perspectives, communicate your ideas effectively and engage meaningfully with complex questions about race, history, culture and society.
