Why African American Studies?

African American studies in the past and today imparts knowledge that contributes to positive social change.

Our curriculum helps students learn how to define, measure, interpret and validate Black experiences. Graduates leave us ready to think and to act in order to solve the unstructured problems that confront Black communities.

Learn more about the value of a degree in African American studies.

News

Iresha Picot started a cycling group for Black women and girls in Philadelphia, and it quickly grew in popularity. She also teaches bike maintenance and bike cycling classes because she said, “I want the women to feel like cyclists.” (Contributed photo)

Aug. 26, 2026

Meet-a-Ram: Iresha Picot makes a mark from mental health to media, from self-care to cycling

The 2007 alum has established deep roots and a wide footprint in Philadelphia.

Hands-on Chemistry, one of the College of Humanities Sciences Summer Camp offerings this year, offered dynamic labs, such as growing crystals using borax and building a spectroscope for a chromatography activity. (Contributed image)

July 22, 2026

Summer camps give middle and high school students an authentic college experience

Weeklong sessions from the College of Humanities and Sciences range from AI and chemistry to genealogy and primatology, providing campers an on-campus education with VCU faculty and facilities.

Dulanda Saintcyr

April 22, 2026

African American studies and political science alum channels research skills to gauge public opinion

Dulanda Saintcyr (B.A.’23) focuses her research work in politics and advocacy for Hart Research

AFAM Spotlight

Events

Collaboration and sharing are at the core of our mission.

Geoff Bennett (photo credit: Johnny Shryock)

Black Out Loud: A Conversation with Geoff Bennett

Date: Friday, Oct 9, 2026

Join us for a conversation with Geoff Bennett, co-anchor and co-managing editor of the PBS NewsHour. Bennett will discuss his book "Black Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy from Vaudeville to '90s Sitcoms."