Introduction to the field of African Studies for graduate
students with limited or no background in the field. The course
will focus on diverse topics of study, including early African
history, Africa's contact with East and West, Arab expansion,
colonialism, Africa's physical environment, language and
development, and the socio-cultural environment (artistic,
political, and social development) of Africa.
Athena Title
Grad Intro to African Studies
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will develop a solid understanding of fundamental ideas in African studies (e.g., diaspora, colonialism, popular culture) to use as a framework for further exploration.
Students will learn to navigate and integrate diverse academic perspectives and methodologies inherent to the field of African studies.
Students will analyze both classic texts and contemporary debates to appreciate how historical and modern viewpoints shape the study of Africa.
Students will examine how historical developments, and cultural institutions have influenced African societies, including aspects of religion, gender, and social structures.
Students will gain practical experience in conceiving and structuring your own research projects that contribute original insights to African studies.
Topical Outline
1. Introduction to Africa
2. African Studies as an academic field
3. The Pre-colonial legacies - Empires and nation-states
4. Linguistic variation: gains, pains, and impact of linguistic diversity on development
5. Ethnic diversity and ethnicity in Africa
6. Family and kinship systems: Issues of gender, education, and
social order
7. Colonialism in Africa
8. Religion
9. Post-colonialism: The contemporary Africa and Africans
10. Continental unity: From OAU to the African Union
11. African conflicts and conflict resolution
12. Pan-Africanism and the new African world order
