Dive into the rich tapestry of African-American history, culture and thought through our interdisciplinary minor in African-American Studies. Discover the vibrant story of Black/African life in the United States, from its origins to its contemporary expressions.
What You Can Do With This Minor
An African-American Studies minor complements any Bachelor’s degree, not just those geared to working with the African-American community. Study of a culture signals to potential employers that a graduate has received a well-rounded liberal education in addition to professional training. Most courses are writing intensive and allow for innovative research projects. This minor teaches students critical thinking skills and an interdisciplinary methodology that serve as assets to any career.
In addition, the history, literature and culture of African-American peoples are crucial to the fabric of the American story—and that of the greater world civilization. African-American Studies enriches our understanding of humanity itself; it is, in short, food for the soul.
What to Expect
Our program offers a captivating journey through African-American cultures. Coursework spans the evolution of African-American experiences, from the arrival of the first Africans in North America to modern-day manifestations. Some courses even introduce classical African civilization and society. Elective options expand your horizons, exploring the African Diaspora in Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean and the Middle East. Many of our courses intersect with other disciplines, especially History, English and Women and Gender Studies. Plus, we boast a robust lineup of courses focused on popular culture.
Calendario
Don't miss an important date or deadline
Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar
Tuition & Aid
UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.
Tuition Estimates
On-campus
$5,018*
Online
$5,790*
*These numbers represent an estimate of the in-state tuition cost for this program and do not include fees. To get an estimate of the full cost of attendance check out the cost of attendance page and/or use the tuition calculator.
Ways to Save on Tuition
Admissions
Applying to UIS is simple
We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.
Review admission requirements
No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.
International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.
Complete your application
An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.
Send your official transcripts
Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.
Submit required statements/writing sample
If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.
Pay your application fee
You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.
Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;
International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.
Voted No. 1 public regional university in Illinois
2020 - 2024
Courses & Catalog Information
At the University of Illinois Springfield, you'll find a wide range of courses tailored to your interests and career goals. Explore your program details and get all the essential information you need to plan your future.
Career Outlook & Potential Earnings
Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses pertaining to the culture and development of an area, an ethnic group, or any other group, such as Latin American studies, women's studies, or urban affairs. Includes both teachers prima
Teach courses pertaining to the culture and development of an area, an ethnic group, or any other group, such as Latin American studies, women's studies, or urban affairs. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Median Annual Wage
$85,020
Wage Range
$52,070 – $160,420
Projected Growth
Below Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Doctoral degree, Master’s degree, Post-doctoral training
History Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in human history and historiography. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Median Annual Wage
$83,820
Wage Range
$48,410 – $162,160
Projected Growth
Below Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Doctoral degree, Master’s degree
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Teach one or more subjects to students at the middle, intermediate, or junior high school level.
Median Annual Wage
$64,370
Wage Range
$48,080 – $102,540
Projected Growth
Below Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Bachelor’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate, Less than high school diploma
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and comparative literature. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and
Teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and comparative literature. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Median Annual Wage
$78,760
Wage Range
$48,270 – $137,250
Projected Growth
Below Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Doctoral degree, Master’s degree, Less than high school diploma
Anthropologists and Archeologists
Study the origin, development, and behavior of human beings. May study the way of life, language, or physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world. May engage in systematic recovery
Study the origin, development, and behavior of human beings. May study the way of life, language, or physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world. May engage in systematic recovery and examination of material evidence, such as tools or pottery remaining from past human cultures, in order to determine the history, customs, and living habits of earlier civilizations.
Median Annual Wage
$70,770
Wage Range
$49,050 – $108,060
Projected Growth
Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Doctoral degree, Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree
Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
Conduct tests on pulmonary or cardiovascular systems of patients for diagnostic, therapeutic, or research purposes. May conduct or assist in electrocardiograms, cardiac catheterizations, pulmonary fun
Conduct tests on pulmonary or cardiovascular systems of patients for diagnostic, therapeutic, or research purposes. May conduct or assist in electrocardiograms, cardiac catheterizations, pulmonary functions, lung capacity, and similar tests.
Median Annual Wage
$74,310
Wage Range
$39,000 – $121,350
Projected Growth
Average
Top Skills:
Typical Education:
Associate’s degree, Post-secondary certificate, High school diploma or equivalent
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