Bachelor's in African American and African Diaspora Studies - Indian Ocean Studies

The Indian Ocean Studies concentration within UNC Greensboro’s African American and African Diaspora Studies (AADS) program program is designed for students interested in exploring the African Diaspora beyond the Atlantic world. This concentration deepens students’ understanding of the global, geographically diverse nature of the African Diaspora through historical, socio‑economic, political, and cultural perspectives.

Students examine the significant contributions of people of African descent across the Indian Ocean region through interdisciplinary coursework, with opportunities for study abroad and related program activities enriching their learning experience.

African American and African Diaspora — Indian Ocean Studies Concentration Highlights

• Study the African Diaspora Beyond the Atlantic World. Explore the histories, cultures, and experiences of people of African descent across East Africa, South Asia, the Middle East, and Indian Ocean island societies.
• Examine Global Connections and Exchange. Investigate how migration, trade, religion, politics, and cultural movements have shaped communities throughout the Indian Ocean region.
• Learn from Award-Winning Faculty. Work with scholars who bring interdisciplinary perspectives to the study of diaspora, identity, history, and global cultures.
• Engage in a Vibrant Academic Community. Participate in lectures, discussions, and the annual Conference on African-American and African Diasporic Cultures and Experience (CACE), which highlights issues affecting Black communities around the world.

The Indian Ocean Studies Student Experience

• Take an Interdisciplinary Approach to Global Diaspora Studies. Build your degree through courses in history, anthropology, religion, political science, sociology, and other fields.
• Work Closely with Faculty Mentors. Small class sizes and independent study opportunities allow you to pursue research aligned with your academic and career interests.
• Share Your Research. Present original scholarship at national conferences and UNCG’s Conference on African-American and African Diasporic Cultures and Experience (CACE).
• Gain Professional Experience. Apply classroom learning through internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
• Expand Your Global Perspective. Study abroad through UNCG partnerships with universities in Botswana and South Africa.
• Join an Engaged Academic Community. Connect with peers through the African American and African Diaspora Studies Student Club and its events throughout the year.

Indian Ocean Studies Courses

In addition to the variety of interdisciplinary core courses required for the AADS major, students can further hone their focus within the Indian Ocean Studies concentration. Special topic courses include:

After Graduating with your BA in African American and African Diaspora Studies

The Indian Ocean Studies concentration within UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Arts in African American and African Diaspora Studies degree develops skills in global analysis, research, communication, and critical thinking. Graduates pursue careers in education, public service, international affairs, nonprofit leadership, cultural organizations, community engagement, and research. Others pursue advanced degrees in African American studies, history, global studies, international relations, public policy, and related fields.

Many graduates continue their studies at institutions including Duke University, Vanderbilt University, Rutgers University, and the University of California, Berkeley.

The AADS program offers resources to support career planning, graduate school preparation, and professional development. Review the list here.

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