African American Music Minor

The minor consists of a minimum of 5 full courses (or the equivalent) and a learning portfolio.

Note: Students must earn minimum grades of C- or P for all courses that apply toward the minor.

The interdivisional minor in African American music is designed for Oberlin College and Conservatory students enrolled in one or both divisions who want to structure and organize their studies around a topic with unique history and curricular offerings at Oberlin. At the core of the minor is study of the history of African American music as well as a broad introduction to Africana studies. These named requirements provide an essential foundation, while electives in both the conservatory and the college allow students to explore and pursue a variety of classes and activities that speak to their specific interests. These interests may be primarily academic in nature or may involve engaging as a performer or creator of artistic work.

Visit the minor’s webpage for more information.

Summary of Requirements

Two Introduction to African American Music Courses
AAST 101 - Introduction to Africana Studies
One Conservatory Elective Course
One College Elective Course
Learning Portfolio

Note(s) on Requirements

At least 16 of the minimum 20 credits may not be applied to another major, minor, or integrative concentration.
If a student wishes to count a course that is not listed below toward the minor, they can petition the minor chair(s) for approval to apply the completed or in-progress course toward their minor.
In planning their schedules, students should be aware that some of the courses listed below have prerequisites.

Declaring the Minor

Students wishing to complete the African American music minor should consult with one of the minor co-chairs and complete the interdivisional or Arts and Sciences minor declaration/change form. The form requires the signature of one of the co-chairs.

Co-Chairs
Chris Jenkins (Conservatory Dean’s Office)
Charles Peterson (Africana Studies)

Detailed Minor Requirements