Skills Developed through an African Studies Degree

A background in African Studies ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

• A deep understanding of the socioeconomic challenges facing African nations and the political issues challenging different countries of the continent
• A knowledge and appreciation of the history and culture of specific regions
• An introduction to the literature, prose and music of the continent
• The ability to identify the obstacles hindering progress in some regions of the continent and the ability to work to create change through your efforts here at York and after graduation

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements and opinion pieces;
• The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
• The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
• The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work.

Management and Teamwork

• The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project's intended and successful end result
• The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.

• African Canadian Heritage Association
• Association of African-Canadian Artists
• Oxfam
• Unicef
• Africa Foundation
• Volunteer Africa