25 Most Affordable Bachelor’s in African-American Studies for 2020

african american studies degree

In this article detailing low-cost Bachelor’s degrees in African American Studies, we will examine degrees like:

  • B.A. in African and African American Studies
  • BA/BS in African American Studies
  • BA in Africana Studies

If the social, cultural, and historical experiences of people with African descent (both past AND present) interests you, then check out these low-cost Bachelor’s degrees in African American Studies we’ve explored below. This liberal arts degree could be interdisciplinary and/or multi-disciplinary, with a curriculum spanning history, literature, arts, and more. We’ve ranked the top 25 utilizing the methodology below.

If you are interested in pursuing an online bachelor’s in African-American Studies, check out our online ranking here.

Rating and Ranking Methodology

To develop this ranking of the top affordable Bachelor’s in African American Studies programs, our editors searched for schools that offered cheap undergraduate programs in African American Studies.  To rate and rank these programs, we applied the methodology below, using information from Google, the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), Payscale.com, the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, and each program’s website. In cases of a tie, the more affordable school pulled the higher rank. If the information didn’t fit within the parameters, zero points were awarded for that category.

Tuition

  • Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points
  • Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points
  • Net Price Below $20,000: 2 points
  • Net Price Below $25,000: 1 point

Student to Faculty Ratio

  • Less than 20:1: 1 point
  • Less than 15: 1: 2 points
  • Less than 10: 1: 3 points

Return on Investment (ROI) According to Payscale.com

  • Top 500: 1 point
  • Top 300: 2 points
  • Top 150: 3 points

Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, writing/technology support, etc.) – 1 point per item

Concentrations/Specializations – 1 point per item

Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item

Campus Diversity Support Network – 1 point per item

“Wow” Factor – 1 point (anything that would mark a program as unique. Special qualities that make a program “stand out from the crowd”)

#25 Bates College

Lewiston, Maine

Bachelor’s in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1

Total Enrollment: 1,832

Standardized Testing Requirements: test scores optional

Points: 9

Bates College offers a low-cost Bachelor’s in Africana Studies that will especially focus on Europe and the Americas. The program is interdisciplinary and is considered progressive as it explores the social, political, and racial identities of the subject matter. Students can expect to take extremely interesting and unique courses in their major. Options include classes like Coming of Age While Black, #BlackLivesMatter, Literary Representations of the Africana Religions, Anti-Blackness and the Environment, and Narrating Slavery. Bates College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Net-Price: $25,113 

#24 Barnard College

New York, New York

Bachelor’s Degree in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,562

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 10

At Barnard College, you can earn a low-cost degree in African American studies through their Africana Studies program. First, you’ll take your general education fundamentals, and then, you can expect to take major courses like Diasporas of the Indian Ocean, Critical Race Theory, Harlem and Moscow, and Toni Morrison: an Ethical Poet. It is important to note that students in this program will be required to take two foreign language courses. Options that pair well with the discipline include Arabic, Dutch, English, French, Hausa, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Swahili. College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Net-Price: $26,681 

#23 Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

BA/BS in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1

Total Enrollment: 21,631

Standardized Testing Requirements: requirements vary

Points: 10

Top 10 Colleges for an Online Degree in Nashville, TN

Students enrolled at Middle Tennessee State University’s cheap African American Studies degree program can choose between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. The core curriculum will explore subjects like political science, history, geography, literature, and philosophy. Graduates will be able to find work in a variety of international/foreign relations careers. Interested students can take their classroom knowledge into a real-world experience by participating in a study abroad experience in Senegal, Africa. MTSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Net-Price: $12,294 

#22 Hamilton College

Clinton, New York

Bachelor’s in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,005

Standardized Testing Requirements: the school allows official or self-reported testing scores

Points: 12

hamilton-college

Hamilton College’s low-cost African-American studies program will take a broad view of the African people and the diaspora by focusing on 5 geographic locations:

  • Africa
  • the Caribbean
  • the U.S.
  • Latin America
  • Europe

Students can expect to take a wide range of courses, including classes like Black Spaces, Black Popular Culture, History of Jazz to the 1950s, and Gender, Space, and Identity in the African Diaspora. Undergraduate students will have opportunities for research and are encouraged to spend at least a semester studying abroad. Hamilton College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Net-Price: $27,809 

#21 Lafayette College

Easton, Pennsylvania

Bachelor’s Degree in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,642

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 12

The affordable bachelor’s in African American studies offering at Lafayette College results in a Bachelor’s in Africana Studies. And while, yes, you’ll have plenty of classroom instruction, you can rest assured you’ll also get a well-rounded education in other ways, too. For example, you can also expect conferences, guest lectures, and even study abroad opportunities in Senegal, South Africa, and Cuba. This interdisciplinary program offers coursework like The Black Experience, Race and Ethnicity in America, Black Writers, and Race, Racism and Health in the US. Lafayette College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Net-Price: $26,855 

#20 Florida A & M University

Tallahassee, Florida

Bachelor Degree in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1

Total Enrollment: 10,021

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 12

Through the College of Social Sciences, Arts, and Humanities, Florida A & M University offers a low-cost Bachelor’s degree in African American Studies. With the help of advisors, students can customize their degree through classes outside the college if desired. Students can also choose a minor to act as an area of concentration. It is required for students to maintain a 2.0 GPA or above. Florida A & M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Net-Price: $14,692 

#19 Smith College

Northampton, Massachusetts

Bachelor’s Degree in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,903

Standardized Testing Requirements: test scores optional

Points: 13

If you’re a critical thinker and ready to explore the social, cultural, and historical factors that influence African culture and race, you should check out Smith College’s affordable Bachelor’s in Africana Studies. Classes in the major include Black Literature and the Urban Experience, Black Women Writers, and Introduction to Black Culture. Study abroad opportunities are available. In addition, an honors program is available for students who meet the standards. A thesis is required. Smith College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Net-Price: $28,123

#18 Augustana College

Rock Island, Illinois

Bachelor’s Degree in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,543

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 13

augustana-college

At Augustana College, you can earn a cheap degree in African American studies through their Bachelor’s in Africana Studies. The program will take a global context approach, examining the experience of Africana people through a holistic worldview. And when it comes to real-world experiences, AC has many opportunities for you to explore, including a winter term in Ghana, an exchange program in Botswana, or a music and education service-learning program in Jamaica. And unlike any other program on this list, the school has a Black Culture House, which houses its African American library and many other artistic displays. Augustana College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price: $24,110 

#17 Amherst College

Amherst, Massachusetts

Bachelor’s in Black Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1

Total Enrollment: 1,855

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 13

Rooted in literature, philosophy, history coursework, Amherst College offers an affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Black Studies. The program will not only examine the African, African-American, and Caribbean/Latin American peoples, but also the issues of racial differences and how those correspond with racial discrimination. Sample classes include Digital Africa, Race, Sex, and Gender in the US Military, and The Blues Muse: African American Music in American Culture. Amherst College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Net-Price: $19,275 

#16 University of Houston

Houston, Texas

BA in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 22 to 1

Total Enrollment: 46,324

Standardized Testing Requirements: requirements vary

Points: 14

At the University of Houston, you can earn a low-cost BA in African American studies. The curriculum requires 30 credit hours, 18 hours in required coursework and 12 hours in African American Studies electives. Sample classes include The Black Church in America, Black Leaders of the Twentieth Century, African Spiritual Transformation in the Social Sciences, and Slavery and Race Relations in the African Diaspora. It is important to note that you must maintain a 2.0 GPA in your major classes! The University of Houston is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Net-Price: $16,002 

#15 Davidson College

Davidson, North Carolina

Bachelor’s Degree in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1

Total Enrollment: 1,843

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 15

At Davidson College, you can earn an affordable degree in Africana Studies. In the program, you’ll examine people of African descent, no matter where they live (Africa, the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, or anywhere else in the world!). Students will take 10 courses in the major, including classes like Intro to Africana Studies, James Baldwin, Haitian Dance Techniques, and Intro to Research Methods. Study abroad opportunities are available as well. Davidson College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Net-Price: $26,565 

#14 Bowdoin College

Brunswick, Maine

Bachelor’s in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1

Total Enrollment: 1,828

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores are optional

Points: 15

Bowdoin College offers an affordable Bachelor’s in Africana Studies that will examine how the contemporary world has been shaped by the African continent. This interdisciplinary program will include coursework from disciplines like anthropology, art history, history, literature, music, political economy, and theater. In addition, students will work on building skills like research, communication, and collaboration skills. Courses in the major include Critical Race Theory in the United States, The Rise and Fall of New World Slavery, State-Building in Comparative Perspective, and Race, Ethnicity, and Politics. Bowdoin College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Net-Price: $24,831 

#13 Roosevelt University

Chicago, Illinois

BA in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1

Total Enrollment: 4,329

Standardized Testing Requirements: requirements vary

Points: 15

At Roosevelt University, you can earn a low-cost degree in African American studies through their BA in African and African American Studies. The interdisciplinary program will take a good look at both the past and present conditions, struggles, and identities that have shaped the Africana people throughout history and beyond. Sample courses include:

  • Black Males in America
  • Introduction to African History
  • Introduction to African American History

Students are expected to participate in internships and field experiences. The degree is also available as a minor. Roosevelt University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price: $23,707 

#12 Wesleyan University

Middletown, Connecticut

Bachelor’s in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1

Total Enrollment: 3,217

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores not required

Points: 15

It hasn’t been easy for Wesleyan University to make their affordable African American Studies a reality. But the struggle has been worth it. And you can see that same kind of grit in the program. In the multi-disciplinary program, students will truly get to “to understand the past and to forge a vision for the future” and examine people of African descent in the Black Atlantic world, with attention in the United States and the Caribbean. Classes include Mixed in America: Race, Religion, and Memoir; Ebony Singers: Gospel Music; The Prison State: Race, Law, and Mass Incarceration in U.S. History; and The Black Radical Tradition. The degree is also available as a minor. Wesleyan University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Net-Price: $21,236 

#11 Wellesley College

Wellesley, Massachusetts

Bachelor’s in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,534

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 15

wellesley-college

Wellesley College’s African American studies program has a history that dates back to 1972. While the program has evolved, students can still major or minor in the subject. Students can also choose to study the Swahili language, as well as study abroad. Courses include Unpacking Blackness, Ethnicity and Identity in the African Diaspora, New World Afro-Atlantic Religions, African Art: Powers, Passages, Performances, The Harlem Renaissance, and Africans of the Diaspora. Wellesley College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Net-Price: $20,826 

#10 Lake Forest College

Lake Forest, Illinois

Bachelor’s in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1

Total Enrollment: 1,512

Standardized Testing Requirements: test scores are optional

Points: 16

Students in the cheap African American Bachelor’s program at Lake Forest College will take a critical look at the African American experience through the point of view of communications, economics, philosophy, and sociology/anthropology and more! The major curriculum will be comprised of the following components:

  • an introductory course
  • literature course
  • two African-American history courses
  • philosophy course
  • 3 electives
  • a senior studies requirement

Classes include History and Philosophy of Slavery, Equity and Social Justice in Education, Black Diaspora Freedom Struggles, and Protest and Police in U.S. History. Students are encouraged to engage in a student-internship. Lake Forest College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price: $27,131 

#9 Howard University

Washington, District of Columbia

Bachelor’s in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1

Total Enrollment: 9,139

Standardized Testing Requirements: requirements vary

Points: 16

howard-university

Offered through the Social Science Division in the College of Arts & Sciences, Howard University offers a low-cost Bachelor’s in African American Studies. All students will have research opportunities supported by specific advisors. Study abroad opportunities to 6 different locations are available. Students also have access to an African American Resource Center and can also engage in internships! Sample classes include Commercial Exploitation of the Third World, Intro to Africana Studies, Programs for Black Economic Development, and Seminar on Teaching Black Studies. Howard University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Net-Price: $19,196 

#8 University of Iowa

Iowa City, Iowa

BA in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1

Total Enrollment: 31,656

Standardized Testing Requirements: requirements vary

Points: 17

The University of Iowa offers a low-cost BA in African American Studies. The curriculum will address three different areas:

  • history, religion and the diaspora;
  • literature and performing arts;
  • media, politics, and society

Student resources include an African American Cultural Center and an African American Studies Student Association. Students will also benefit from seminars and lecture series. For students seeking extended studies, a graduate degree and/or a graduate certificate is available. The University of Iowa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price: $15,817 

#7 Colgate University

Hamilton, New York

Bachelor’s in African American & Latin American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,969

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 18

Colgate University takes a little different approach for its affordable African American studies degree program. You will major in African American and Latin American Studies and then get an emphasis in African American studies. What is so invigorating about this program is it not only focuses on the past heartbreaks of African American people but also examines the significant contributions they have made in history and modern culture. Elective include classes like African American Humor, The Archaeology of Race and Ethnicity in America, American Texts and Contexts, and Fugitive Mobilities: Migration and Environmental Imagination in 20th-Century America. Colgate University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Net-Price: $23,058

#6 Colby College

Waterville, Maine

Bachelor’s in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1

Total Enrollment: 2,000

Standardized Testing Requirements: test scores optional

Points: 18

Colby College offers a low-cost Bachelor’s in African American Studies. In the program, students will examine people of African descent, especially in the US, the Americas, and the Caribbean. The program is interdisciplinary and will examine subjects like anthropology, economics, literature, government, history, music, religious studies, and sociology. Study abroad opportunities are available in South Africa or Ghana. You’ll learn through classroom study, lectures, cultural events, and film. The program is offered as a major or a minor. Colby College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Net-Price: $20,689 

#5 Arizona State University

Scottsdale, Arizona

BA in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 23 to 1

Total Enrollment: 38,540

Standardized Testing Requirements: requirements vary

Points: 20

best colleges arizona

Located in Scottsdale Arizona, Arizona State University offers a cheap BA in African American Studies. Classes range from the Making of Modern Africa to The Global History of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade to Precolonial Africa. A versatile study abroad option is available, with options from 1 week to 1 year. In fact, students can choose from over 250 programs in 65 different countries. Graduates will be ready to take on careers in fields like civil rights organizations, colleges and universities, political action groups, and law firms. Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price: $14,166 

#4 University of Toledo

Toledo, Ohio

Bachelor’s in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20 to 1

Total Enrollment: 20,237

Standardized Testing Requirements: requirements vary

Points: 21

The University of Toledo offers a low-cost degree in Africana Studies. Students will learn through an experiential learning method, and be able to take all they learn into the communities in which they work. Students will also reap the benefits of flexible learning (you can take some of your courses online!), and students will also work closely with faculty on a required senior seminar. Students will also participate in hands-on learning through service-learning opportunities. Study abroad options are available too! The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Net-Price: $16,588 

#3 University of Florida

Gainesville, Florida 

Bachelor’s in African American Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1

Total Enrollment: 52,218

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 22

The University of Florida offers an affordable Bachelor’s in African American Studies. After the completion of all general education requirements, students will take 30 credit hours of the required major core curriculum. Classes include Key Issues in African American & Black Atlantic Thought, Mentoring At-Risk Youth, Introduction to African American Studies, and Poverty & Welfare American History. Students can also choose to double major in African American Studies and Political Science (or another related major). UF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Net-Price: $11,313 

#2 University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Bachelor’s in Africana Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1

Total Enrollment: 25,860

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 23

You can earn a cheap Bachelor’s in African American studies at the University of Pennsylvania. Students can choose to specialize in one of three areas: African Studies, African Diaspora Studies, and African American Studies. So this program has a little bit of whatever you’re looking for! Within the curriculum, you will start with Intro classes rooted in sociology. Next, you will take classes like Homelessness & Urban Inequality, Discrimination: Sexual and Racial Conflict, Religious Ethics and Modern Society, The American South, and more. You can target your electives to customize your degree in the way you choose! The University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Net-Price: $26,266 

#1 University of Texas Austin

Austin, Texas

Bachelor’s in African and African Diaspora Studies

Website

Student-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1

Total Enrollment: 51,832

Standardized Testing Requirements: scores required

Points: 25

bachelor degree in astronomy

The University of Texas at Austin offers an affordable Bachelor’s in African and African Diaspora Studies. Students will choose 1 of 4 tracks:

  • Critical Race, Gender, and Sexuality Theories
  • Performance, Music, Art, and Literature
  • Language, History, and Behavioral and Social Sciences
  • Law, Education, Health, and Policy

Next, students will take courses in two different geographic areas related to the Diaspora. In addition, a minor of 15-21 credit hours is also required. Options for a minor could include Philosophy, LGBTQ Studies, Women and Gender Studies, and American Sign Language. A community internship and senior seminar are also required. The University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Net-Price: $14,156 

About an Affordable Bachelor’s Degree in African American Studies

If you are earning your affordable Bachelor’s degree in African American Studies, you can expect an interdisciplinary or multi-disciplinary liberal arts degree program that explores the complex experiences (cultural, social, political and historical) of people of African descent. In addition, you’ll study issues of discrimination, as well as the African diaspora (the mass migration of African people to the Caribbean, the Americas, and other parts of the world).

Coursework in the major:

In this discipline, the liberal arts coursework will examine a variety of subjects, including history, arts, philosophy, literature, the humanities, and more.

Students can expect the core classes to include options like:

Intro to African American Studies: an introductory course, which typically follows a chronological timeline

African American Research Methods: in these research courses, students will learn to critically evaluate and analyze the available body of social science research

African American Literature: an English course that will survey of the body of work of African American authors, and how their works have impacted literature and culture.

After completing core coursework, students can also customize their degree with electives. Options could include topics in religion, politics, literature, anthropology, history, women’s rights, and more.

Online vs. On-Campus Bachelor’s in African American Studies:

Deciding whether to take your coursework online or on-campus will be up to you. While many students are choosing the online route to accommodate life or work obligations, some are still wanting the support and connection that an on-campus experience brings. There is much to be gained from having that interaction and common shared experience with your peers. On-campus, you can expect to have an array of student support services, like counseling, advising, tutoring, writing centers, math centers, career services, and more. What’s more is that you can also take your coursework in a hybrid delivery method, meaning some of the curricula would be delivered online. You’ll be able to have the best of both worlds if you want it. Engage in the on-campus experience with the added benefit of some online coursework. But again, the decision will ultimately be up to you!

How do I get admitted to a program in African American Studies?

Each school will have its own admission requirements, but generally, you can expect schools to base your admission on factors like:

  • high school diploma/equivalent/GED
  • transcripts
  • SAT/ACT scores
  • letters of recommendation
  • entrance essay
  • extracurricular activities/service/volunteer work

If standardized testing isn’t your thing–consider a school that doesn’t require them or where they are optional.

To make sure everything’s in line, check the details of your program to see exactly what you need in order to apply. Pay close attention to application deadlines to ensure that you’re submitting your application on time–you don’t want to miss your chance! They come a little faster than you might think.

Program length:

Typically, earning a Bachelor’s degree takes about 4 years if you are a full-time student with no credits. But depending on a few factors, that length could change! Some could include:

  • whether or not you already have college credit from high school
  • if you’ve already taken courses at a college and whether or not they transfer
  • how many credits your program requires
  • whether you are a full-time or part-time student
  • the method of course delivery

Depending on the above factors, the time it takes to earn your degree could vary. You can accelerate the time by taking online or summer courses, or you can lengthen it by taking your classes part-time. There is no right or wrong answer; it’s all up to what works best for your schedule and your path.

Affordable Bachelor’s Degree in African American Studies FAQs

Q: Is a Bachelor’s in African American Studies a good degree?

A: There is something unique about this degree: it doesn’t set you up for a specific career as most degrees do. And yes, we understand that seems vague and a bit scary, but the point? Because you’ll get a broad understanding of cross-cultural and diversity issues, you can take everything you learn about African American studies and apply it to a variety of careers. You’ll have job fluidity, meaning you can ebb and flow with the seasons of life or if your interests change, you could consider a different career. So for that? We say yes, it’s a good degree to consider!

Q: What kind of Bachelor’s degree will I get with an African American Studies major?

A: Most of the time, you will earn a Bachelor of Arts because the coursework is heavily rooted in a liberal arts curriculum. This will include general coursework in the disciplines of history, literature, writing, philosophy, sociology, psychology, creative arts, foreign language, and more.

Q: What is the difference between African American Studies and Africana Studies?

A: In this ranking, you’ll see degrees in both. Yes, they are connected, but they are not the exact same thing. Africana Studies is the more broad subject, focusing on people of African descent, their experiences, and the Diaspora. Though the degree will take a more global approach, the coursework will still include options to study African American Studies in detail. So, yes, this degree will give you insight into that subject. On the other hand, African American Studies will focus more on the experience of black people who live in the Americas. But in order to study that, you’ll also have to study coursework related to Africana studies. While the terms aren’t necessarily interchangeable, both disciplines will have curriculum overlap. Deciding which degree to pursue will likely depend on your career goals, your interests, and what your school offers.

Q: What skills do I need to study the field of African American Studies?

A: These skills aren’t necessary, but to be successful in this discipline, you will need a love for liberal arts curriculum and helpful skills like:

  • critical thinking skills
  • analytical skills
  • written and communication skills

Q: What are some related degrees I could pursue?

A: We get that not every school will offer a low-cost degree in African American Studies. You could also try looking for Africana Studies or Black Studies, which have similar themes and curriculum. Or you could major in something else and minor in Black Studies (or a related option).

Q: Can I work while I get my affordable undergrad degree in African American Studies?

A: This decision will be completely up to you! But, yes, you can. It might be wise to wait to find a job until after your first semester or so–so you can see how much time your studies will take before you dive into a job!

Note: If you need to work while also attending school, try looking for a job that doesn’t take too much mental energy so you can concentrate on your studies. A simple desk job could work well! Also, consider a job on-campus so you can cut down on commute time.

Q: When can I start my in African American studies?

A: Most schools follow a traditional path of 2 start times per year, Fall and Spring. But that doesn’t mean every school will follow that path. While most schools follow the semester path, others follow a quarter system. Check your school’s details to find out!

Q: Is the cost of my books included in the tuition cost?

A: Not usually. You’ll want to save extra money to buy your books for your classes. Try buying them used to save money.

Low-Cost Bachelor of African American Studies Career FAQs

Q: What can I do with an affordable Bachelor’s degree in African American Studies?

A: One of the most amazing things about this degree is that you can use this degree and your passion for many different career avenues. With your Bachelor’s degree, you could pursue careers such as:

  • Human services worker 
  • Activist 
  • Community organizer
  • High School History Teacher

If you continue your education and get a subsequent degree like a Master’s degree or higher, you could pursue careers like:

  • History Professor
  • Human Services Professional
  • Research Historian
  • Museum curator 
  • Historian 
  • Public administrator
  • Diversity Studies Professor

Q: What kind of salary can I expect with a degree in African American Studies?

A: Salaries will range depending on your career. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics median pay data from 2018, you can expect a salary like:

  • Social and Community Service Managers: $65,320 per year 
  • High School Teacher: $60,320 per year
  • Museum Curator: $48,400 per year 
  • Administrative Service Manager: $96,180 per year 

Q: Is a cheap Bachelor’s in African American Studies worth it in the long run?

A: We know that college is a big investment, so you’ll want to know that your money is being put to great use. But the answer to this question will depend on the type of job you pursue. For example, job growth for social service managers is expected to grow by 13% in the next ten years, which is much faster than average. Other careers like a High School History Teacher will only grow as fast as average, about 4%.

Q: Should I join a professional organization in the African American Studies field?

A: We think you absolutely should! Joining a professional organization will keep you up-to-date on current research or professional practices, as well as help you network within a group of like-minded peers. When it comes to the discipline of African American studies, you can join a general organization or an organization directly related to your job–like the Association of Black Sociologists (ABS), etc.

Here are a few of the professional organizations you can check out:

Related Rankings