COURSE CURRICULUM

The Ethnic Studies major requires students to complete a structured curriculum that focuses on the histories, cultures, and social experiences of major 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, and social inequality. This course introduces students to key historical events, cultural developments, and social issues that shape the experiences of diverse communities.Students must also complete 21 units of upper division core courses that examine the experiences and contributions of different ethnic groups. These include Ethnic America, which explores the development of ethnic groups and their roles in American society. Additional courses focus on specific communities, including 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 help students understand the histories, cultural traditions, and social challenges faced by these communities. The program also includes Research in Ethnic Studies, where students learn research and analytical methods used to study ethnic communities and social issues. Students also complete Ethnic Studies Fieldwork and a seminar course, which provide opportunities to apply academic knowledge in real-world community settings and discuss contemporary issues related to race, identity, and culture.In addition to the core courses, students complete 12 units of concentration electives by choosing a specialization area. One option is the Chicana or Chicano Studies concentration, where students select four courses related to the history, culture, and social experiences of Mexican American and Latino communities. These courses may come from several related disciplines such as anthropology, history, art, sociology, political science, music, theater, or Spanish studies. Topics may include Mexican and Latin American history, Chicano community studies, immigration, Latin American literature, cultural traditions, and Latino art and performance. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to explore the cultural and historical experiences of Chicana and Chicano communities from multiple academic perspectives.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, including 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 cultural awareness, research abilities, and critical thinking skills that are valuable for careers in education, government, community organizations, social services, and many other professional fields.