Distinction in Black Studies (DBST)

The Distinction in Black Studies (DBST) program examines the complexities of the Black experience from different perspectives. The purpose of the distinction is to introduce students to the political, social, economic, and historical dimensions animating the lives of Black people in Africa and the African diaspora. In the effort to examine multiple aspects of the Black experience, this program is transdisciplinary, meaning that students will engage content, think, integrate methodological practices, and produce work at the intersections of disciplines to arrive at a fuller understanding of the condition of Black people occupying various regions of the globe. Because of the transdisciplinary nature of this field of study, this program complements and enriches any major area of study and prepares students for life in an increasingly multi-ethnic and global society.Upon completion of the Distinction in Black Studies, students will be able to: apply knowledge and skills to address problems faced by people of African descent examine current and historical events, phenomena, circumstances, and discourses having to do with Black people using different critical and theoretical frameworks (political, social, historical, economic, religious, and psychological),explore constructions of blackness and their implications,integrate different methodological practices to arrive at a fuller understanding of the condition of Black people in the United States and other areas of the world