Africana Studies
Empower Your Future
At EWU, Africana Studies is more than a program—it’s a space to explore identity, connect with others, and make an impact.
You’ll dive into the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of African, African American, and Afro-Caribbean communities, all while gaining valuable real-world skills.
This flexible and interdisciplinary program is offered both in-person and online, so you can earn your degree on your terms. Africana Studies also pairs well with other majors, such as political science, business, and education.
Whether you’re the first in your family to go to college, exploring a new direction, or coming back to advance your career, you’ll find the support and connections to thrive.
Africana Studies Degree Options
Interdisciplinary/Africana Studies Bachelor of Arts
Enhance your ability to critically examine and understand the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of people of African descent.
Explore the BAAfricana Studies
Minor
Develop your skills as an independent researcher and collaborative problem-solver, with a focus on African American experiences.
Explore the MinorDiversity & Inclusion
Minor
Build a deeper understanding of DEI and how to advocate for underrepresented communities.
Explore the MinorCivil Rights Tour
Africana Studies students have the opportunity to participate in a powerful seven-day Civil Rights Tour through the Deep South. Spanning over 1,000 miles across five states and covering 22 historic landmarks, the tour offers an immersive exploration of the pivotal events, leaders, and places that defined the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s.
Black History Month Events
Feb. 24: Black History Month Speaker Series
Ms. Betsy Wilkerson, President, Spokane City Council
In conversation with Rama Bah, BSU President
Tuesday, February 24, 2026, 12 – 1:30 p.m.
The Walter and Myrtle Powers Reading Room, Hargreaves Hall
Council President Betsy Wilkerson is a lifelong Spokane resident, small business owner, and community leader. She is the second African American woman to serve on Spokane City Council and the first woman and person of color to serve as Council President. She has long been involved in nonprofit and community work, including chairing the board of the Carl Maxey Center and leading major fundraising efforts to support its mission.
She is committed to building an inclusive Spokane where all residents have the tools and opportunities to succeed.
Feb 26: Africana Studies Silent Auction
Join us to support students!
Thursday, February 26, 2026
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Monroe Hall, 205
The Africana Studies Program at Eastern Washington University hosts its Annual Silent Auction each February to support students and programs. Funds raised help provide scholarships, support the Richard Williams Graduation Celebration, and make Black History Month and other cultural events possible. The auction brings together students, faculty, and community partners, featuring donated items and experiences from local supporters. It’s both a fundraiser and a celebration of our community’s commitment to student success.
Why Study at the Region’s Polytechnic?
Get a hands-on education, real-world experience, and personalized support from faculty so you can launch your career with confidence.
Personalized Attention
Benefit from one-on-one guidance, mentorship opportunities, and strong connections with faculty and advisors who know you and your goals.
Student SupportAffordable Education
EWU has the lowest in-state tuition of any public university in Washington. There are also scholarships available for Africana Studies students.
Financial Aid & ScholarshipsCommunity
The Black Student Union is an inclusive club where you can build lasting friendships, celebrate Black culture, and connect through unforgettable events.
Black Student UnionScholarships
Africana Studies students are awarded approximately $14,560 in scholarships each year—just one part of the $9.7 million EWU awards annually to nearly 1,500 students through a single scholarship application.
Scholarships aren’t just for top GPAs or athletes—they’re based on your major, background, community service, and more. And the best part? Scholarships are free money you don’t have to pay back.
The EWU General Scholarship Application for the academic year opens Nov. 1 and closes Feb. 1.
Supportive Spaces
Africana Studies Lounge
The Africana Studies Lounge is your home away from home. Come to this cozy, welcoming space to grab a snack, play Xbox, curl up with a book, catch up on homework, or simply hang out. It’s also a place to interact with fellow students, share experiences, and get help from advisors on essays, scholarships, and more.
Canvas Virtual Lounge
Not on campus? No problem. The Canvas virtual student lounge is your go-to space to connect, collaborate, and stay in the loop. Join discussions, share resources, ask questions, and chat with faculty—all in a supportive digital hub that helps you stay connected to the Africana Studies community, no matter where you are.
Stay Connected
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Africana Studies News
Get in Touch With Us
Scott Finnie, PhD
Angela Schwendiman, MA
Pronouns: She/Her