Africana Studies

Empower Your Future

At EWU, Africana Studies is more than a program—it’s a space to explore identity, connect with others, and make an impact.

You’ll dive into the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of African, African American, and Afro-Caribbean communities, all while gaining valuable real-world skills.

This flexible and interdisciplinary program is offered both in-person and online, so you can earn your degree on your terms. Africana Studies also pairs well with other majors, such as political science, business, and education.

Whether you’re the first in your family to go to college, exploring a new direction, or coming back to advance your career, you’ll find the support and connections to thrive.

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A group of EWU students on campus.

Africana Studies Degree Options

Interdisciplinary/Africana Studies Bachelor of Arts

Enhance your ability to critically examine and understand the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of people of African descent.

Explore the BA

Africana Studies
Minor

Develop your skills as an independent researcher and collaborative problem-solver, with a focus on African American experiences.

Explore the Minor

Diversity & Inclusion
Minor

Build a deeper understanding of DEI and how to advocate for underrepresented communities.

Explore the Minor

Civil Rights Tour

Africana Studies students have the opportunity to participate in a powerful seven-day Civil Rights Tour through the Deep South. Spanning over 1,000 miles across five states and covering 22 historic landmarks, the tour offers an immersive exploration of the pivotal events, leaders, and places that defined the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s.

Scholarships

Africana Studies students are awarded approximately $14,560 in scholarships each year—just one part of the $9.7 million EWU awards annually to nearly 1,500 students through a single scholarship application.

Scholarships aren’t just for top GPAs or athletes—they’re based on your major, background, community service, and more. And the best part? Scholarships are free money you don’t have to pay back. 

The EWU General Scholarship Application for the academic year opens Nov. 1 and closes Feb. 1.

An Africana Studies student at graduation.

Why Study at the Region’s Polytechnic?

Get a hands-on education, real-world experience, and personalized support from faculty so you can launch your career with confidence.


Personalized Attention

Benefit from one-on-one guidance, mentorship opportunities, and strong connections with faculty and advisors who know you and your goals.

Student Support

Affordable Education

EWU has the lowest in-state tuition of any public university in Washington. There are also scholarships available for Africana Studies students.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Community

The Black Student Union is an inclusive club where you can build lasting friendships, celebrate Black culture, and connect through unforgettable events.

Black Student Union

Supportive Spaces

Africana Studies Lounge

The Africana Studies Lounge is your home away from home. Come to this cozy, welcoming space to grab a snack, play Xbox, curl up with a book, catch up on homework, or simply hang out. It’s also a place to interact with fellow students, share experiences, and get help from advisors on essays, scholarships, and more.

Canvas Virtual Lounge

Not on campus? No problem. The Canvas virtual student lounge is your go-to space to connect, collaborate, and stay in the loop. Join discussions, share resources, ask questions, and chat with faculty—all in a supportive digital hub that helps you stay connected to the Africana Studies community, no matter where you are.

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Scott Finnie, PhD

Program Director
Professor
Photo of Scott Finnie, PhD

Rebecca Hunton

Administrative Assistant 3
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Okera Nsombi, PhD

Professor
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Pronouns: He/Him/His

Monroe Hall 204C

Angela Schwendiman, MA

Senior Lecturer
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Pronouns: She/Her