Minor in African American Studies
Minor Requirements | Course Offerings
Because African American Studies is truly interdisciplinary, the AAS minor pairs well with any major offered on campus.
Learn | Diverse Perspectives
The African American Studies minor provides an intellectual home for the exploration, critical examination, analysis and interpretation of the experiences, traditions and dynamics of people of African descent in the U.S. and the African diaspora. An African-American Studies minor complements any Bachelor’s degree, not just those geared to working with the African-American community. Study of a culture signals to potential employers that a graduate has received a well-rounded liberal education in addition to professional training. Most courses are writing intensive and allow for innovative research projects. This minor teaches students critical thinking skills and an interdisciplinary methodology that serve as assets to any career.
In addition, the history, literature, and culture of African-American peoples are crucial to the fabric of the American story—and that of the greater world civilization. African-American Studies enriches our understanding of humanity itself.
Connect | Career Opportunities
Some careers may require licensure, certification, or further education. Talk to an advisor about specific requirements.
- Management and Industry
Cultural Resources Manager, Civil Services Worker, Social Worker, Human Resources - Communication and Media
Journalist, Media Relations Specialist, Linguist/Interpreter - Education
Teacher, Administrator, Professor, Student Affairs, University Administration - Non-Profit/Advocacy
Peace Corps Staffer, Program Administrator, HIV/AIDS Activist - Government/Politics
Foreign Service Specialist, Political Analyst, Public Administration, State and Local Government, Civil Service Work, Community Urban Planning, Public Affairs and Policy
Grow | Transferrable Skills
- Expressing Ideas
- Listening Skills
- Persuasion
- Public Speaking
- Technical Writing
- Written Communication
- Cultural Understanding
- Gathering Information
- Identifying Problems
- Research Skills
- Planning and Organizing
- Strategic Planning/Visioning
- Creating Innovative Solutions
- Multitasking
- Analytical/Critical Thinking
- Problem Solving
Notable Figures | AAS Majors
- Angela Bassett, award-winning actress. (BA in African-American Studies from Yale University.)
- Rakim H. D. Brooks, Rhodes Scholar and C. Edwin Baker Fellow in Democratic Values at Demos. (BA in Africana Studies from Brown University.)
- Megan L. Comfort, Senior Research Sociologist, Urban Health Program at RTI International and Adjunct Asst Professor of Medicine, UCSF. (BA in Black Studies from Wellesley College.)
- Jendayi Frazer, Distinguished Professor, Carnegie Mellon University and former US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs. (BA in African and Afro-American Studies & Political Science from Stanford University.)
- Brian L. Harper, Medical Director and COO of the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention. (BA in Afro-American Studies & Biology from Brown University.)
- Mae Jemison, Physician and NASA astronaut on the Endeavor in 1992. (BA in Afro-American Studies from Stanford University.)
- Do Kim, Civil rights attorney & founder of the Korean American Youth Leadership Program. (BA in Afro-American Studies & Sociology from Harvard University.)
- Aaron McGruder, Cartoonist, writer and creator of the nationally syndicated comic strip “The Boondocks.” (BA in African-American Studies from the University of Maryland, College Park.)
- Gloria Naylor, Educator and novelist. Winner of the National Book Award in 1983 for The Women of Brewster Place. (MA in Afro-American Studies from Yale University.)
- Michelle Obama, attorney and First Lady of the United States. (BA in Sociology with a minor in African-American Studies from Princeton University.)
- Richard W. Roberts, US District Court Judge for Washington DC. (BA in Black Studies & Political Science from Vassar College.)
- Claudia Thomas, author and first black female orthopedic surgeon in the U.S. (BA in Black Studies from Vassar College.)
Monday, February 3
Black History Month Tabling
10:00am – 1:00pm
SAGE HALL Lobby
Come out to get your Black History Month Buttons, Candy, Flyers, Posters, and Notifications for upcoming events from members of the African American studies Club (AASC) & the UWO Chapter of the N.A.A.C.P.
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Monday Night Movie
Hidden Figures
6:00pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 1210
FREE Admission/Popcorn/Candy/Beverages
Watch Trailer
Talkback Led by: Dr. Alphonso Simpson and AASC Board Members
Tuesday, February 4
Black History Month Tabling
10:00am – 1:00pm
SAGE HALL Lobby
Come out to get your Black History Month Buttons, Candy, Flyers, Posters, and Notifications for upcoming events from members of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity, Inc.
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Miss Black and Old Gold Scholarship Pageant Informational
5:06pm
SAGE HALL 3232
For more information please contact brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc at eta.pi1906@gmail.com
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Divine Voices and Heritage Gospel
OPEN Choir Rehearsal
6:30pm – 8:00pm
Arts and Communications Bldg. Rm. N28
Come out and see how you fit into the phenomenology of Gospel Music singing. No Auditions Required! For questions e-mail Dr. Simpson: simpsona@uwosh.edu
Wednesday, February 5
Black History Month Tabling in Reeve Union
10:00am – 1:00pm
SAGE HALL Lobby
Come out to get your Black History Month Buttons, Candy, Flyers, Posters, and Notifications for upcoming events from members of the UWO chapter of Leaders Igniting Change (L.I.T.)
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Open Lecture with Dr. Alphonso Simpson - “Stony the Road We Trod: The History of African Americans and Labor”
1:50pm - 3:20pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 1232
Join in on Dr. Simpson’s lecture in person as he highlights the various form of African American Labor and the Eras that that came about because of them.
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Meet the AAS Club (General Body Meeting)
6:00pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 1232
Come out and learn about the AAS Club and the events planned for the remainder of the semester. Meet the Exec Board of the Club and find out how YOU can get involved!
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Thursday, February 6
Black History Month Tabling in Reeve Union
10:00am – 1:00pm
Reeve Union Concourse
Come out to get your Black History Month Buttons, Candy, Flyers, Posters, and Notifications for upcoming events from members of the Black Student Union (BSU)
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Black History Month Spotlight featuring Dr. Alphonso Simpson, Jr. -
Director of African American Studies
5:00pm
90.3 WRST-FM
Radio Spotlight highlighting individuals and discussing issues, events, and activities relevant to African Americans on the UWO Campus. Hosted by: Wendell Ray
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Black Entrepreneurship in the Fox Valley - Answers to your Questions
6:00pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 1232
Ever wondered how to get your business started or even what it takes to begin your professional journey? Come and get these and many other questions answered by UWO Alumni, Entreuprenuer and Business Executive
Mr. Charles L. Butler, Jr.
Sponsored by the African American Studies Program and Club
Friday, February 7
Black History Trivia Night
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Reeve Memorial Union Rm - 306
Come out to the Black History Trivia Night to have fun while showcasing your knowledge of notable people, events, and dates. Let this be your practice for the upcoming Virtual Trivia Bowl on the 22nd. Prizes will be awarded to “those who know.”
Sponsored by the Black Student Union (BSU).
Saturday, February 8
Relationship Goals? -
Q&A - With Doc and Renee
6:30pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 3232
Have you every asked “What does it mean when my girlfriend…” or “Why does it seem like guys always…” Well, come out to this fun and informative Q&A session and get some of your pressing relationship questions answered as you share them anonymously with
Relationship Instructors "Doc" & Mrs. Renee Simpson”
Sponsored by the African American Studies Program & Club
Sunday, February 9
Black History Month Sunday Service
9:30 am
Breakthrough Covenant Church
215 E. Washington St. – Appleton, WI
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Black and Old Gold Classic 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament
1:00pm
ALBEE HALL GYMNASIUM
Can You Hoop? Come out to this exciting event to see who will be crowned the 2025 Black and Old Gold Classic 3 on 3 Basketball Champions. Teams can sign up from Monday, Feb. 3 to Saturday, Feb. 8th. at BHM tabling or online. Registration is $20 per team to be paid to $EtaPi1906 prior to the event. E-mail Jelani Lawson at lawsonje03@uwosh.edu for more details. DON’T MISS IT!
Monday, February 10
Open Lecture with Dr. Alphonso Simpson -
“You Ain’t Seen Hard Work: Black Male/Female Relationships at the Crossroads”
Time: 3:30 - 5:00pm
Location: SAGE HALL Rm - 1232
Join in on Dr. Simpson’s in-person lecture as he highlights a few fundamental points of issue found between Black men and women in dating relationships that sometimes hinder the process that leads to matrimony.
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Monday Night Movie
The Help
6:00pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 1210
FREE Admission/Popcorn/Candy/Beverages
Watch Trailer
Talkback led by: AASC Board Members
Tuesday, February 11
Spring 2025 Titan Fest
4:00pm
Reeve Union Ballroom
Come OUT to get INvolved! Be sure to stop by tables #12 (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.), #45 (L.I.T.) #47 (D.V.O.V. Gospel Choir). #48 (AAS Club), #49 (Black Student Union), #50 (African Student Union), and #62 (N.A.A.C.P.) to learn what our Black Student organizations are all about. not only that, come out to sign up to join our e-mail lists, and to learn about some of the great events we have happening through Black History Month and the remainder of the Spring semester!
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Divine Voices and Heritage Gospel
OPEN Choir Rehearsal
6:30p – 8:00p
Arts and Communications Bldg. Rm. N28
Come out and see how you fit into the phenomenology of Gospel Music singing. No Auditions Required!For questions e-mail Dr. Simpson: simpsona@uwosh.edu
Wednesday, February 12
AAS Liaisons “Difficult Discussions”
7:00p - 8:00p
Virtual via ZOOM
Discussion Topic - The Social “Work” of African American Studies
with Ms. Jade Hibbler -
Social Work Major/AAS Minor
Join the Discussion HERE
Hosted by Dr. Alphonso Simpson, Jr., “Liaisons,” is a discussion series that celebrates interactions between faculty, staff, students, and community leaders from different backgrounds who share an interest in African American Studies. These monthly forums offer an opportunity to exchange ideas on topics relevant to the study of African American history, culture, and experiences. Speakers from diverse fields and backgrounds share knowledge beneficial to all, regardless of career goal or college major.
Thursday, February 13
Black History Month Spotlight featuring:
Mr. Kobe Allen - UWO Admissions Counselor
5:00pm
90.3 WRST-FM
Radio Spotlight highlighting individuals and discussing issues, events, and activities relevant to African Americans on the UWO Campus. Hosted by: Wendell Ray
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N.A.A.C.P. Film Screening
Just Mercy
5:30pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 1210
FREE Admission/Popcorn/Candy/Beverages
Watch Trailer
Talkback led by: N.A.A.C.P. Student Board
Friday, February 14
Valentine’s Day/Affirmation Card Creation Tabling
10am - 1pm
Reeve Union Concourse
Stop by and make a Valentine’s Day Card for someone. Even if you don’t have a Valentine, feel free to make an affirmation card to promote self-love! You’ll never know who may need it! Sponsored by the African American Studies Club
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Valentine’s Day BINGO
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Reeve Memorial Union Rm - 306
Come out and unwind with a few games of BINGO to win Valentine’s Day themed prizes with the Black Student Union. Feel free to bring a friend and some candy to share.
Saturday, February 15
Wisconsin Mass Choir Open Rehearsal
1:00pm
Arts and Communications Bldg. Rm. N28 (Choir Room)
UWO Campus - Oshkosh
Come out to see and be a part of State history in the making! Watch the Wisconsin Mass Choir rehearse here in Oshkosh! You can also register for and join this trail blazing Gospel Choir on the spot as we continue to reach out across the state in an effort to “put Wisconsin on the map” for Gospel music.
Wisconsin Mass Choir on Facebook!
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Black Student Organization
*Free Bowling Party (RSVP Required)
6:00pm
Rev’s Bowl - Oshkosh
RSVP using QR Code at an AASC, BSU, L.I.T., or Alpha Events or Organizational Meeting - RSVP’s for free bowling will stop at 40 registrants.
NOTE: *Free includes shoe rental, ball and lane, party buffet, & 2 games of bowling per participant.
Sunday, February 16
Black History Month Sunday Service
9:30am
Breakthrough Covenant Church
215 E. Washington St. – Appleton, WI
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D.V.O.V. Tiny Desk Showcase
First Congregational Church
137 Algoma Blvd. - Oshkosh
6:00pm
Come out to experience this rehearsal styled performance of Prasie & Worship in both contemporary and traditional styled Gospel in a close and intimate setting.
FREE ADMISSION
Monday, February 17
Monday Night Movie -
The Butler
5:30pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 1210
FREE Admission/Popcorn/Candy
Watch Trailer
Talkback led by : AASC Board Members
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When Work Disappears: African American Labor in the Crucible of Critical Chaos
6:00
Virtual via ZOOM
Moderated by Dr. Alphonso Simpson, log in to be a part of this bold discussion centered around the 2025 Black History Month Theme of African Americans and Labor coupled with the current state of affairs we as African Americans could possibly be facing in various forms of work. Panelist Include:
Dr. William Hines, Mr. Derek Pugh,
Ms. Paula L. Simpson, Ms. Tasha L. Dudley, Mr. Byron Oden-Shabazz, and
Ms. Emma P. White
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Tuesday, February 18
Divine Voices and Heritage Gospel OPEN Choir Rehearsal
6:30p – 8:00p
Arts and Communications Bldg. Rm. N28
Come out and see how you fit into the phenomenology of Gospel Music singing. No Auditions Required! For questions email Dr. Simpson: simpsona@uwosh.edu
Wednesday, February 19
5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Commemorative Celebration and Awards Program/ Oshkosh 94 Scholarship Program
6:30p - 8:00p
Reeve Memorial Union Theater Rm - 307
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Howard Spearman
Rock Valley College - President, Member Sigma Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Performance by: Members of the D.V.O.V. Gospel Choir "Tiny Desk Crew"
Scholarship Presentations by: Dr. Sheila Knox - Oshkosh 94 and Mr. DJ Daniels - President of the Sigma Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity, Inc
Remarks by: Chancellor Andrew Leavitt
Thursday, February 20
McNair Scholars "Open House"
12:00pm - 3:00pm
Halsey Rm - 121
Come out to learn about the McNair Scholarship Program at UWO and all that it has to offer.
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“Writing My Way to the Future”: Black Women’s poetry Readings
4:00pm - 5:00pm
SAGE HALL Rm - 4212
Join us for selected readings of poems by Black women authors in English, followed by a discussion on race, gender, and the power of poetry. Sponsored by Women's and Gender Studies
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Black History Month Spotlight featuring UWO Black Student Organization Leaders
5:00pm
90.3 WRST-FM
Radio Spotlight highlighting individuals and discussing issues, events, and activities relevant to African Americans on the UWO Campus. Hosted by: Wendell Ray
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African American Studies NCBS Presentations
5:30pm
Reeve 212AB
Come out to see and hear research presentations by UWO AAS Students who will be presenting in Cincinnati, Ohio next month at the 49th Annual National Council for Black Studies on the following topics:
**Blackness, Race and Identity in White Spaces
**Educating Black Children in Predominantly White Schools
**Black Women and Reproductive Justice
**The Foster Care System and Black Children
**The Mental Health of Black Men
**The Double Consciousness of Africans in America
Friday, February 21
3rd Annual Decade Dance: “THE 2000's”
7p - 10p
Reeve Union Room 202
Come dressed up in your best Y2K outfits ready to “Get Crunk and Teach us how to Dougie” with LIVE MUSIC from Professional DJ and UWO Alumn Andre Wallace AKA (dj4000)
$100 prize for best outfit! Prizes for other “best of…”categories
Saturday, February 22
4th Annual “Know Your Black History” -TRIVIA CONTEST
4:00pm CST
Virtual via ZOOM
(Kahootz style Trivia Game for all interested Undergraduate and High School Students. Be sure to REPRESENT YOUR SCHOOL by wearing a shirt, hat or some clothing item with your school name, logo, or mascot on it) Sponsored by the African American Studies Program at UWO and The National Council for Black Studies (NCBS)
Join the Game
Sunday, February 23
Black History Month Sunday Service
9:30am
Breakthrough Covenant Church
215 E. Washington St. – Appleton, WI
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Divine Voices of the Valley (D.V.O.V.) “Tiny Desk” Concert
6:30p
SAGE 1210
FREE ADMISSION - Come out to experience this rehearsal styled performance of Praise and Worship in both contemporary and traditional styled Gospel in a close and intimate setting.
Monday, February 24
Monday Night Movie
The Six Triple Eight
6:00p
Sage Hall Rm - 1210
FREE Admission/Popcorn/Candy/Beverages
Watch Trailer
Talkback hosted by Dr. Michelle Kuhl & Members of the AASC Board
Tuesday, February 25
Panel on Popular Culture: "Wicked"
6:00 - 7:30
Reeve Memorial Union Rm 212
The Wicked movie provides many talking points about race, ability, sexuality, and female friendships. The panel will engage in critical analysis of the popular film. If you haven't seen the film and wish to before this panel, Reeve is hosting a free screening with additional activities on February 21 in the Reeve Theater. Sponsored by the Center for Student Success and Belonging
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Divine Voices and Heritage Gospel OPEN Choir Rehearsal
6:30p – 8:00p
Arts and Communications Bldg. Rm. N28
Come out and see how you fit into the phenomenology of Gospel Music singing. No Auditions Required! For questions email Dr. Simpson: simpsona@uwosh.edu
Wednesday, February 26
Black Student Programming/Support in the Age of Uncertainty (Part 1) - A State-wide Two-part Virtual Discussion
7:00pm - 8:30pm CST
Location: Virtual via ZOOM Join Here!
Join us in a think-tank discussion centered around the recent challenges/threats posed on educational programs and programming in the state of Wisconsin. Moderated by Dr. Alphonso Simpson, Jr. - VicePresident of the National Council for Black Studies and Director of African American Studies at UWO. Panelist include:,
Dr. Frank King, Dr. Andrene Wright-Johnson,
Dr. Jessica Lee Stovall, Dr. Belynda Pinkston,
Dr. Damira Grady, Mr. Anthony Miller ,
Ms. Wanda Sloan, and Mr. Kobe Allen,
Thursday, February 27
Black History Month Spotlight featuring
Dr. Troy Washington - Assistant Professor
Human Serviced Leadership -
5:00pm
90.3 WRST-FM
Radio Spotlight highlighting individuals and discussing issues, events, and activities relevant to African Americans on the UWO Campus. Hosted by: Wendell Ray
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Taste of Africa - Meet and Greet
6:00pm
Reeve Union (The Hub)
Join the African Student Union for an event filled with the vibrant flavors and culture of Africa! Enjoy delicious African food, connect with fellow African students, and learn about the newly formed African Student Union! Whether you’re looking to make new friends, celebrate our heritage, or simply enjoy good vibes, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the warmth of our community. Don’t miss out—we can’t wait to see you there! Sponsored by the African Student Union
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Black Student Programming/Support in the Age of Uncertainty (Part 2) - A National Two-part Virtual Discussion
6:00pm - 7:30pm CST
Virtual via ZOOM Join Here!
Join us in a 2nd evening of think-tank discussion centered around the recent challenges/threats posed on educational programs and programming throughout the Nation. Moderated by Dr. Alphonso Simpson, Jr. - VicePresident of the National Council for Black Studies and Director of African American Studies at UWO. Panelist include:
Dr. Valerie Grim ,Dr. Maulana Karenga,
Dr. Melina Abdullah, Dr. Michael Tillotson,
Dr. Alicia Fontnette, Dr. Akinyele Umoja,
Dr. Ifetayo Flannery, Dr. Sarita K. Davis
and Dr. Kevin Brooks
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UWO Jazz Ensemble Concert
7:30pm
Arts & Communications Music Hall - UWO Campus
Tickets available for cash at the door
Directed by Dr. Marty Robinson, come out to hear this spectacular performance honoring “The Legacy of Benny Golson”
For questions e-mail Dr. Marty Robinson: robinsm@uwosh.edu
Friday, February 28
2nd Annual Night of “Soulfood and Jazz” with Distinguished Alumn
Maurice “Moe” Wince
5:30pm to 8:30pm
Culver Center
Join us as we close out our Black History Month Celebration with Family, Food, and Fellowship along with the smooth and sultry jazzy sounds of none other than Milwaukee's own, the legendary Sam Belton
Free for all UWO Students who present a valid Titan I.D. (No meal plan needed). Faculty, Staff, & Community Members -
$20 per individual - Cash Only!
African American Studies Program
Sage Hall, Room 3464 and 4461
(920) 424-0939
aasp@uwosh.edu
AASP Brochure
Have a question? Ask away.