Massasoit's new Black Studies major aims to 'explore and share the rich history, culture'

BROCKTON - Massasoit Community College will launch a Black Studies degree starting in the fall semester, making it the first community college in the state to offer a program of its kind.

The Black Studies major is a two-year associate of arts degree program that will teach students to "critically examine, analyze, and interpret Black experiences in American society," the college announced Monday.

“As interest in Black and African American studies increases among our current and future students, we are excited to launch this new degree program to teach the Black experience and prepare our students for lifelong, rewarding careers,” said Ray DiPasquale, president of Massasoit Community College.

“At an interdisciplinary level, Massasoit’s outstanding faculty are ready to explore and share the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black people in our country," he said.

Courses within the new program will include: Intro to Black Studies; Caribbean: History, People, and Culture; Contemporary Issues in the Black Community; and the Black Arts Movement. Plus, courses such as African American Literature, Black Images in Film, and The Black Experience Through Music have been offered at Massasoit since 2012.

“We are excited to share this critical body of scholarship so that our students can continue to make meaningful connections between their lived experiences, the classroom, and our communities, while also preparing them for successful careers in the workplace and in other higher education institutions," said Rachel Jessica Daniel, director of the Center for Employee Enrichment and Development and a professor of African American Literature at the college.

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"The Black Studies program at Massasoit demonstrates our commitment to teaching liberatory and timely curricula that centers the rich history and experiences of Black Americans,” she said.

According to the college, more than 900 students graduate from Massasoit every year.

In March, Stonehill College launched a program in which Massasoit Community College students can transfer to Stonehill for a 50% minimum tuition discount, plus extra financial benefits for graduates of Brockton High School.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Massasoit Community College launches first ever Black Studies degree