Mission and Student Learning Outcomes

Mission

The Africana Studies program creates an intellectual environment to promote learning and teaching about Africa and the African Diaspora, from an interdisciplinary perspective.  The program helps students to understand the complex historical and contemporary issues affecting Africans and peoples of African descent.  This interdisciplinary program strives to incorporate twenty-first century competencies, a consciousness of global diversity, and the capacity to employ one's creative and academic abilities.  In keeping with UNC Asheville's mission as a public liberal arts institution, Africana Studies provides the foundation for lifelong and engaged learning and the development of innovative ideas to respond to current and future global challenges.  This curriculum promotes service and scholarship on Africana issues, with faculty mentorship of students.  Africana Studies prepares undergraduates to be global citizens, to assume leadership roles, and to develop a strong sense of social and ethical responsibility.

Student Learning Outcomes

Critical Thinking

Students develop skills in critical thinking, clear and thoughtful communication, creative expression, and honest, open inquiry.

University Learning Outcome 1

Intercultural Knowledge & Competence

Students understand and appreciate the diversity and the interconnectedness of cultures locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.

University Learning Outcome 3

Civic Knowledge & Engagement

Students demonstrate that they are responsible, engaged citizens through effective communication in diverse settings and groups using written, oral, and visual means.

University Learning Outcome 5

Inquiry & Analysis

Students understand the critical roles played by social, political, and economic forces and their influence on society’s development, including the factors that lead to dynamic changes in societies.

University Learning Outcome 2, 6

• University Mission Statement
• University Student Learning Outcomes