UNLV now offers a degree in Afro-American Studies -- the only degree of its kind in Nevada.

The bachelor of arts program became available following approval by the Board of Regents of the University and Community College System of Nevada in September.

The primary motivating factor for creating the new program was student demand, said UNLV professor Rainier Spencer, who directs the new program.

"Students repeatedly have expressed an interest in having the opportunity to pursue a degree in Afro-American studies," Spencer said. "The popularity of the Afro-American studies classes we were offering in areas such as anthropology and English had grown steadily over the years, prompting the university to begin offering a minor in Afro-American studies in 1998.

"While a number of students have opted to utilize the minor, still others wanted a full-blown degree program," he said. "We're pleased that we now are able to fulfill their requests.

"Beyond the value of the degree to interested students, the new program demonstrates UNLV's commitment to diversity and to academic excellence," Spencer said.

Students who graduate with bachelor's degrees in Afro-American studies tend to find work in a variety of fields, including jobs as consultants for private companies or government agencies, teaching at the high school or junior high school level, writing about Afro-American related subject matter, and working for historical societies.

Others continue their studies, pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in Afro-American studies or law degrees.

UNLV's Afro-American studies program is housed in the department of anthropology & ethnic studies, which is part of the College of Liberal Arts.

For additional information, call Spencer at 895-0943.