Black Studies at PSU
Where Innovation Meets Resistance
Founded in 1970, Black Studies at Portland State is a premier center for the study of the African Diaspora in the Pacific Northwest. We offer a home for students to engage with the most pressing issues of our time — examining how Black life shapes politics, culture, the economy, and society globally.
Our Philosophy: Ubuntu
We operate through the lens of Ubuntu: “I am, because we are.” This foundational African philosophy is the heartbeat of how we teach and research. We provide the tools for activism, resistance, and transformation.
What You’ll Gain
We offer an undergraduate major and minor as well as certificates in Black Studies and African Studies. Our courses span Africa, the United States, the Caribbean, South America, and Europe. We also offer courses as part of the graduate certificate in Gender, Race, and Nations.
As a student in Black Studies, you will bridge the gap between academic theory and community impact. Our curriculum is designed to build both intellectual depth and professional versatility:
- You'll gain cultural competencies, knowledge, and awareness by exploring the histories, epistemologies, identities, politics, and other contributions of people of African Ancestry throughout Africa and the African Diaspora.
- You’ll develop strong creative and critical thinking practices and will acquire proficiency in research and in written and verbal communication — skills necessary across job markets.
- Our programs are unique in that you’ll develop strong facility in intersectional thought and ethical nuance around social issues and collective responsibility — important for careers and community engagement.
Our students are prepared for graduate study and for work in careers in government, community service, education, non-profit agencies, museums, business, communications, and law. Our program enhances students' abilities in current job markets that serve multicultural and multiethnic populations, and also gives students a competitive advantage in obtaining careers in industries and communities that interact with African, African American, and Caribbean cultures.