The problem this study addressed is low participation from African Americans in science occupations. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to identify strategies that encourage participation from African Americans in science. The expectancy-value and critical race theories were the theoretical frameworks for this study. Phenomenology was the best methodology for this study because this methodology focused on understanding participants' experiences, meanings, and perspectives. The qualitative interview method was the primary tool for investigating four major themes that emerged from the literature review: undergraduate experience, a sense of belonging, academic preparation, and effects of school policy. NVivo software was used to analyze the transcripts from eight interviews. Important findings from the study showed that these African American participants had a strong scientific identity and a strong sense of belonging. The data from this study uncovered a hidden component to improving African American participation in science. It was concluded, in this study, that researchers should target African American parents who can promote a deeper appreciation of scientific research and present science occupations as an option to their children. This approach would mean African American parents would be a critical ingredient in future research studies about this phenomenon. Additionally, these parents could promote the benefits scientific contributions have on the African American community. It stands to reason that parents who have a positive outlook on science possess the capacity to motivate their children to learn more about science. This study demonstrated that African American parents are the primary influencers of their children, especially for the pursuit of science. A recommendation for future research would be to quantify the impact African American parents have on their children's participation in science. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]