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MA in African-American Studies

Learning Mode:

  • On-Campus

Gain an advanced understanding of the history, culture, and society of African diaspora. Acquire the expertise you need to achieve your potential in sharing that knowledge with students, politicians, and broader audiences.

30Credit Hours
30-36 Months to Complete
1Program Track
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Transform Your Future with the MA in African-American Studies

The MA in African-American Studies from Morgan State University will prepare you for making an impact while teaching at secondary schools or community colleges. You can also pursue careers in journalism, museum or information services, and more.

  • Take four core courses and then choose from diverse electives that align with your career goals

  • Pursue a concentration in African Diaspora history, or one of your choice; the program includes coursework, a comprehensive exam, and a thesis

  • Study on campus in a diverse, supportive, and innovative environment

  • Complete your degree in as little as 30 months (or up to 36 months)

Why Morgan?

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  • 20%

    We take pride in our diversity and international-friendly community. Over 20% of Morgan students identify as nonblack, coming from the United States or places like Africa, China, Saudi Arabia, and more.

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  • In 2018, Morgan became a Carnegie-classified R2 doctoral university with high research activity. We are dedicated to supporting students and faculty with innovative research projects.

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  • 55K

    Over 55,000 Morgan alumni make up a passionate network that spans the United States and beyond. Our graduates become leaders in their communities, their careers, and the world.

Advance in Your Professional Career

With Morgan State University's MA in African-American Studies, you will get valuable access to the critical resources in the National Archives, the Smithsonian Institutions, and the National Parks Service for research and/or internships. Join our graduates who have gone on to prestigious PhD programs at Rutgers, University of Massachusetts, and Indiana University.

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Learn In-Demand Skills

Refine your knowledge of the history, culture, and politics of African Diaspora. Get ready to learn today’s most in-demand skills for a broad understanding of African affairs.

  • Historiography and historical methods

  • Research methods and writing

  • Social inequality

  • Cultural geography

  • African American and multicultural literature

  • Race relations in America

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Secure Your Ideal Career

Once you graduate, you will have what it takes to land your first job or move up in your career. There are many job titles and careers you can pursue with an MA in African-American studies.

Design your dream career working in research, archives, critical investigation, and teaching, at various levels.

  • Cultural Resources Manager

  • Civil Services Worker

  • Media Relations Specialist

  • Museum Curator/Archivist

  • Linguist/Interpreter

  • Educator

  • Program Administrator for Museums, NGOs, or business

Pursue Hands-On Research and Internships

Find the competitive edge you have been seeking. Maximize your potential with real world experiences outside the classroom, including internships and access to critical resources in the National Archives, the Smithsonian Institutions, and the National Parks Service. Make connections in the community, collaborate with our award-winning faculty, and participate in advanced research or thesis projects.

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The World Is Your Classroom

Study, intern, or volunteer abroad and broaden your horizons. Choose from over 30 international partnerships with institutions in Brazil, China, Ghana, Tanzania, Botswana, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Contribute to Our Legacy of Excellence

At Morgan, student success is our top priority. Our goal is to provide an exceptional learning environment in which your academic, intellectual, and personal growth excel far beyond your expectations and long after graduation.  Long known for our achievements in the humanities and social sciences, we have a strong history of guiding students toward success no matter what the challenge. Just like our distinguished alumni before you, you can accomplish the unimaginable.  We are confident you will become part of our legacy of excellence. 

MSU Grad - Karen Irving
The coursework I completed during this journey has prepared me [well] ... I've had the opportunity to work with leadership and other stakeholders within the community college setting, which has been an excellent incentive for me to build my knowledge base as I become prepared for this work. I joined student governance to build my capacity through professional connections within the Morgan network and tie these experiences back to my future professional objectives. The Advanced Studies, Leadership, and Policy department does a great job of incorporating opportunities that provide students with additional insight during their doctoral journey ... As for affordability ... It was the determining factor for selecting Morgan, including being an HBCU. I’ve attended non-HBCUs before, [but at Morgan] I can definitely feel the love that I hadn't previously experienced.
- Karen Irving, Morgan State Graduate Student Association President (2021-22), EdD in Community College Leadership, Doctoral Candidate

Financial Support Makes Things Possible

Choosing the right program is a big decision—and we are here to help you navigate the options available for funding your education. Whether you are an in-state, out-of-state, or international student, you may be eligible for Graduate Funding. We also offer two types of Graduate Assistantships: Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs). Both provide special learning opportunities in exchange for a stipend/salary and Tuition Award. In addition, by simply filing your FAFSA each year, you will be able to participate in Federal Plus Loans and Federal Direct Loan Programs. With proper planning, going back to graduate school is more than possible. We are committed to breaking barriers and opening doors for all future students. Contact us to learn more about affordability at Morgan’s School of Graduate Studies.

  • Graduate Fellowships and federal Title III Graduate Fellowships provide a stipend and Tuition Award

  • Teaching Assistantships offer you the chance to teach and assist with undergraduate courses

  • Research Assistantships give you research experience with faculty-led or external projects

  • Federal Direct Loan Programs include the Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized Loans

  • Additional Grants and Scholarships from external sources award free money—so apply early

Request More Information

Discover the MA in African-American Studies

Find meaningful success—both personally and professionally—with the On-Campus MA in African-American Studies. If you are ready to learn valuable skills for a more rewarding career, why wait? Request more information today and we will reach out to you with all the details.

1700 East Cold Spring Lane Baltimore, Maryland 21251
(443) 885-3185