Africana Studies is dedicated to developing expertise and knowledge of the African Diaspora.
The program’s interdisciplinary approach emphasizes the artistic and intellectual traditions of all people of the African Diaspora. The Minor in Africana Studies is designed to complement a student’s major, incorporating courses from many subject areas.
About the Minor
UCF Catalog: Africana Studies MinorThe Africana Studies minor is an interdisciplinary program that offers courses in a wide range of subject areas such as African American studies, Africana history, film, fine arts, Latin American studies, literature, political science, psychology, sociology and anthropology. Eighteen credit hours are required to complete the minor and a variety of topics are offered so students can customize their educational experience to their interests.
Africana Studies presents a unique opportunity for students to explore the rich complexity and diversity of society. It provides a forum for students to understand the significant contributions that black individuals have made to world civilization and the American experiment.
Additionally, Africana Studies is dedicated to developing expertise and knowledge of the black experience in the African Diaspora. The program’s interdisciplinary approach emphasizes the artistic and intellectual traditions of the black experience.
What does Sankofa Mean?
Sankofa (san·ko·fa) is a Ghanaian word that means “it is not wrong to go back for that which you have forgotten.” The word is a combination of the words: san (return), ko (go), and fa (seek and take). “Sankofa” teaches us to go back to our roots in order to move forward.
Scholarships
There are three competitive scholarships available for students seeking a minor in Africana Studies. These awards offer additional opportunities to challenge and define their experiences. Winners are recognized at an annual luncheon.
- Business Services Africana Studies Dining Scholarship/Stipend
- John T. Washington Community Service Award for Africana Minors
- John T. Washington Scholarship for Africana Studies Minors
Faculty & Staff
Lecture Series
The annual Dr. John T. Washington Lecture Series benefits scholarships for UCF students pursuing minors in Africana Studies. Hosted by the UCF Department of History and Africana Studies program in partnership with UCF Alumni, the lecture series honors Washington’s commitment to community and service.
UCF History Events CalendarNews
UCF Class Spotlight: History of the Caribbean
February 01, 2024 Offered through the Africana Studies program, “History of the Caribbean” teaches students of all disciplines the big significance of a relatively small region.
How to Celebrate Kwanzaa in 2022
December 06, 2022 Kwanzaa is the weeklong celebration held to honor African heritage in the United States, and will begin on December 18.
Africana Studies Student Receives John T. Washington Scholarship Award and Community Service Award
March 02, 2022 Africana Studies minor Dalaya McFadden was awarded the John T. Washington Scholarship Award and the John T. Washington Community Service Award.
Africana Studies Student Awarded Dining Scholarship
September 22, 2021 The UCF Africana Studies program proudly awards the Africana Studies and Business Services Dining Stipend to senior Jasmine Harris. Sponsored by UCF Business Services, the stipend offers an all-access meal plan that grants seven-day access to both campus dining halls, 63 South and Knightro’s.
Discover the History of Juneteenth with Dr. Fon Gordon
June 07, 2021 On June 8 from 7:00–8:00 p.m., the Orange County Library System will host Juneteenth in American History, a free virtual event featuring Fon Gordon, associate professor of history and coordinator of Africana studies.
Students Receive Africana Studies Scholarships and Dining Awards
March 10, 2021 Jamar Miller, Jasmine Harris, Jordan Feld and Jae Olivia Noel recently received scholarships from the Africana Studies program for the Spring 2021 semester.
Courses