ODU TO OFFER BACHELOR'S DEGREE IN AFRICAN-AMERICAN STUDIES THIS FALL

Beginning in fall 2007, Old Dominion University will be the only school in the region and one of three in the state to offer a bachelor's degree in African-American and African Studies. The program was approved Tuesday by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.

The new interdisciplinary degree will focus on issues surrounding race and ethnicity in American society. Students will study history, sociology, political science and criminal justice as well as complete an internship in a public, private or nonprofit program that specializes in services for African Americans, women or disadvantaged populations.

The university currently offers a minor in African-American studies, in which 66 students are enrolled.

The University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University are the other two schools in Virginia that offer similar programs.