Black Studies Minor

Introduction

The program in Black Studies provides students with an interdisciplinary approach to the history, culture, and politics of peoples of African descent. In addition, this program offers a closer examination of Black leaders, activists, feminists, writers, artists, and scholars and their contributions to the development of the United States.

Courses range from in-depth studies on specific issues in Black Studies to classes on comparative political and cultural issues including social movements, activism, representation, and identity formation. Together, they provide context for understanding the varied experiences of Black people in American society.

This minor program can be combined with many major designations.

Student Resources

Department website: Ethnic Studies

Contact information:

• Department Chair: Lourdes Gutierrez Nájera, College Hall 101, gutierl2@wwu.edu
• Department Manager: Julie Moon, College Hall 103, Ethnic.Studies@wwu.edu

Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.

Career Services Center: Connect major to a career

Sample Careers: Community Organizer, Social Worker, Journalist, Lawyer, Health/Medicine, Advocacy, Grant Writer.

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

The Department welcomes students interested in learning more about the Black Studies Minor to schedule an advising appointment.

To declare a minor in Black Studies:

• Schedule an appointment with the Minor advisor by emailing Ethnic.Studies@wwu.edu.
• Fill out section 1 of the Student Academic Declaration & Change Form.  
• Enter the email address,  Ethnic.Studies@wwu.edu  at the bottom, then click “submit.”

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.