Black World Studies - Loyola University Chicago

Black World Studies from Loyola University Chicago is a Campus Bachelor Area Studies degree that prepares you for a Liberal Arts career. Loyola's Black World Studies (BWS) major allows students to become informed and knowledgeable in dialogues concerning the historical, sociological, literary, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of Black life in the U.S. and in specific African contexts. Inaugurated in 1971 as a minor, Black World Studies was the first interdisciplinary program in Loyola's College of Arts and Sciences. The current Black World Studies major educates individuals working in social and public service organizations who seek to enhance their awareness of racial, cultural, and ethnic differences. Although the continent of Africa has a vast history and rich culture, it faces significant challenges, including a shortage of clean water, dwindling food supplies, famine, war, and disease. Black World Studies provides students with an understanding of these global issues confronting African people and their descendants. Graduates will be prepared to address these and other human environmental crises. Students pursuing the Black World Studies major develop an understanding of the history of enslavement of Africans in the Western Hemisphere as this history relates to current issues of race and racism in America and elsewhere. During the course of their studies, students conduct research and share their knowledge with groups that are nationally, ethnically, and politically diverse. Students are also encouraged to participate in internships, service-learning experiences, and study abroad opportunities. These educational activities prepare students for life in a complex, diverse world where good citizenship is highly valued. Black World Studies is also useful to students planning to work in social and political service organizations. Students in this major learn to: Appreciate the contributions of the Black world to religion, literature, performance, and the arts. Master the research methods traditionally used to study Africa and her scattered people and their cultures. Understand the impact and politics of language and culture and its use in various settings, both formal and informal. Examine the implications for poor and disenfranchised populations who are often the victims of a disingenuous research agenda. Develop critical thinking and writing skills in the discourses comprising the discipline. Apply the disciplinary knowledge acquired in the service of people of color and become aware of employment opportunities based on acquired disciplinary specialization. Recognize the significant achievements of people of color in the United States and in global contexts. Become sensitive to and tolerant of differences with regard to race, class, gender, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity, and religion. Apply research methods acquired in the BWS course sequence. Associate with a social service or community organization or other internship opportunity. Demonstrate proficiency in writing through construction of a paper based on the acquired research methodology and hands-on field study or internship experience. Build the capacity to become social change agents. View more details on Loyola University - Chicago, IL . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Area Studies courses.