COURSE CURRICULUM

The Ethnic Studies major requires students to complete a structured curriculum that explores the history, culture, and social experiences of diverse ethnic communities in the United States. The program begins with a required lower division course, Introduction to Ethnic Studies, which provides a foundation for understanding the interdisciplinary study of race, ethnicity, culture, and social inequality. This course introduces key concepts and historical perspectives that help students analyze the social, political, and cultural experiences of different ethnic groups.At the upper division level, students complete 21 units of core coursework that focus on the experiences and contributions of major ethnic communities. These courses include Ethnic America, which examines the historical and contemporary development of ethnic groups in the United States. Students also study the Asian American Experience, the Chicano or Mexican American Experience or La Raza Studies, the Native American Experience, and Pan African Studies. Together, these courses provide a broad understanding of the histories, struggles, cultural contributions, and social issues affecting these communities. In addition, students complete Research in Ethnic Studies, which develops research and analytical skills through the study of ethnic communities and social issues. The program also includes a fieldwork course and a seminar that allow students to apply academic knowledge in community settings and engage in discussions about contemporary ethnic and cultural issues.Students must also complete 12 units of concentration electives by selecting one of several specialization areas. These include Asian American Studies, Chicana or Chicano Studies, Native American Studies, Pan African Studies, General Ethnic Studies, Teachers in Bilingual Education, or Teachers in Urban Settings. Each concentration allows students to focus on a particular cultural or educational area while exploring historical, social, and political issues related to that field. For example, the Asian American Studies concentration includes courses on Asian American communities, politics, families, globalization, and identity.Overall, the Ethnic Studies major requires a total of 36 units within the program. In addition, students must complete 43 units of general education courses covering communication, quantitative reasoning, arts and humanities, social and behavioral sciences, physical and biological sciences with a laboratory component, ethnic studies, and upper division interdisciplinary coursework. This curriculum prepares students with strong cultural awareness, research skills, and critical thinking abilities that are valuable for careers in education, public service, community organizations, government, and many other professional fields.