Bachelor in Africana Studies: African American Studies, BA

The University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1740 and located in Philadelphia, is an Ivy League research university known for combining rigorous scholarship with practical, interdisciplinary education. With roughly 28,038 students and 6,392 international students, Penn offers a diverse, global campus community and 216 programs spanning liberal arts, engineering, business, medicine, and design. The university emphasizes translational research and social impact, encouraging students to apply ideas across sectors through centers, labs, and community partnerships.

Penn’s compact urban campus places students close to museums, startups, hospitals, and cultural venues, creating abundant experiential learning opportunities. International students benefit from comprehensive support services, including orientation, visa advising, language assistance, and career coaching tailored to global job searches. Collaborative initiatives like integrated dual-degree options and project-based courses help students build multidisciplinary skills and professional networks across the Philadelphia region and beyond.

Admissions are competitive; applicants should prepare strong academic records, meaningful extracurricular engagements, and clear statements of purpose reflecting interdisciplinary interests. Financial aid and fellowships are available for qualifying students, and many graduate programs offer research assistantships. Graduates routinely enter top firms, academic careers, public service, or entrepreneurial ventures. For international students seeking a research-intensive environment with practical connections to industry and community, Penn offers a well-resourced, globally connected setting to advance academic and professional goals.

The Bachelor in Africana Studies: African American Studies, BA is for students who want to explore the history and culture of African Americans. This 4-year degree helps students develop a deeper understanding of social justice and community development. The program is taught in English at the University of Pennsylvania.

The curriculum covers topics such as African American history, literature, and social movements. Students will develop skills in critical thinking, research, and writing. They will also have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences, such as internships and community-based projects.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Social Justice Advocates, Community Organizers, Historians, Writers, or Professors. They can work in industries such as education, non-profit, government, or media. Employers may include museums, cultural centers, or social justice organizations.