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Black and African Diaspora Studies is an interdisciplinary program that explores the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of Black communities in Canada, Africa, the Americas, and beyond. You'll examine topics such as identity, race, migration, colonialism, social justice, and cultural expression from multiple perspectives.

A unique strength of the program is its focus on African Canadian and African Nova Scotian histories, giving you the opportunity to study the rich history and ongoing contributions of Black communities in the region. Along the way, you'll strengthen your skills in research, communication, critical thinking, and analysis while learning from faculty across several disciplines. These skills prepare graduates for careers that value cultural understanding, leadership, and problem solving.

“They really helped to stretch my thinking of what it means to be a Black person.” − Portia Wright, Class of '25

You'll examine the histories, cultures, and experiences of Black communities while developing the skills to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand complex social issues from multiple perspectives.

Because Black and African Diaspora Studies is interdisciplinary, you'll take courses from several departments across the university, connecting ideas from history, sociology, political science, literature, philosophy, health, and more.

The program's capstone course gives you the opportunity to bring your learning together by exploring contemporary issues through independent research and discussion.

Dal Arts students can apply for the FASS Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Pilot Program, which offers a one-semester paid work term where you put what you learn in the classroom into practice, build career-ready skills, and gain experience in the workplace.

Arts students can take their learning beyond the classroom through the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences’ experiential learning program.

Participate in internships, community-based projects, research opportunities and career-focused experiences that help you apply what you learn, explore your interests and prepare for your future.

Choose from BA or BSc pathways, along with major, honours, minor, or certificate options. Build your degree around topics that interest you by selecting courses in African Canadian studies, African history, Black literature, philosophy, politics, health, sociology, migration, culture, and the arts. The program's interdisciplinary structure lets you combine learning from multiple subject areas to match your goals.

Gain a deeper understanding of Black histories, cultures, and communities while developing the research, communication, and critical thinking skills to make a meaningful impact in your future career and community.