Black World Studies
Today’s employers seek highly educated graduates who understand racial diversity and cultural pluralism. This major will provide you with a deep appreciation for the diversity of human experience and prepare you for success in a multi-ethnic workforce and world.
A multicultural education for a multicultural society
In small classes, you’ll work side by side with talented faculty with a nuanced understanding of the black experience globally. You’ll study the experiences of peoples of African descent from the historical, cultural, political and socioeconomic perspectives, and examine the relationships between Africans on the continent and those in the diaspora. Your courses will draw on multiple disciplines, including social sciences, natural sciences, fine arts, education and the humanities. Our curriculum is designed to prepare you for lifelong intellectual and professional competence in a diverse society.
More ways to learn—on campus and beyond
Practical experience is built into the curriculum. Through our outstanding study abroad programs, you can visit Ghana to explore the history and culture of one of the oldest empires of Western Sudan, or spend a semester learning at a distinguished university in South Africa. Our internships draw on Chicago’s vast cultural, corporate and governmental resources. We make our connections your connections, so you can test-drive your dream job. You can combine academic study with compassionate service to people in need, in the Chicago area or around the world. You can even complete your own hands-on research projects in close collaboration with faculty.
Khay-leen Wright
Black World Studies and English Graduate
“I received a scholarship and was the first person in my family to earn a college degree. The opportunities at Dominican were amazing, on campus and beyond. Now my goal is to become a book editor.”
Create original research
If you’re interested in developing an original research or creative project, you can apply for special funding from the university, awarded on a competitive basis. You’ll enjoy faculty guidance and support throughout the process. You may even get a chance to present your work at a campus expo in April. It’s all part of the Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Investigations Program (URSCI)—a distinctly Dominican initiative. URSCI also funds student travel to academic and professional conferences across the United States. Eligible students can travel to the annual National Council for Black Studies conference
Prepare for success in a remarkable range of careers
A survey of U.S. employers by Hart Research Associates found that 93% of managers say that “a job candidate’s demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems” is the most important factor in hiring decisions. That is an essential skill set our graduates hone. Our interdisciplinary approach and multicultural focus prepares students for the wide range of occupations that require understanding and implementing diversity, equity and inclusion standards. Our graduates pursue rewarding careers and leadership roles in international relations, civil rights law, corporate management, teaching, social work, public service and many other vital fields.
Mylisha Harvey
Black World Studies and Sociology Student
“I’ve built an incredible community at Dominican and have had great experiences. I’ll never forget the spring break I spent on a service-learning trip to New Orleans, building homes for people still affected by Hurricane Katrina. After graduation, I plan to work as a counselor to foster children.”
Elders Council
The Elders Council is an advisory board for Black World Studies majors. The council’s goal is to showcase the rich and diverse culture of people of African descent, and to broaden the educational experience of the students, community, and adjoining communities. Their mission is to seek, identify, and advise in the creation of programs and activities that enhance the Black World Studies experience at Dominican.
Center for Igbo Studies
The Center for Igbo Studies at Dominican University was established to facilitate the greater understanding of Igbo history, civilization, religion, culture, and language, while analyzing the current state of the Igbo Nation. Its mission is to promote Pan African studies research and global education and raise funds for the program operations and project development needs of the Center. The Center for Igbo Studies hosts annual conferences at Dominican University and encourages Black World Studies students to attend and learn more about African culture.
Learn more about the Center for Igbo Studies.