COURSE CURRICULUM

The Ethnic Studies major requires students to complete a total of 36 units consisting of lower division coursework, upper division core courses, and concentration electives. The program begins with a foundational lower division course, ETHN 11 Introduction to Ethnic Studies, which provides students with an overview of the development of Ethnic Studies as an academic field. This course introduces key concepts related to race, ethnicity, identity, and social inequality while examining the historical and cultural experiences of diverse communities in the United States. After completing the introductory course, students must complete 21 units of required upper division courses that explore the histories, cultures, and social issues affecting different ethnic groups. These courses include ETHN 100 Ethnic America, which examines the development and contributions of ethnic communities in the United States, as well as ETHN 110 The Asian American Experience, ETHN 130 Chicano/Mexican-American Experience or ETHN 131 La Raza Studies, ETHN 140 Native American Experience, and ETHN 170 Pan African Studies. Together, these courses provide students with a broad understanding of the cultural traditions, political movements, and historical experiences of these communities. Students also complete ETHN 194 Research in Ethnic Studies, which develops research and analytical skills, along with ETHN 195A Ethnic Studies Fieldwork and ETHN 195B Ethnic Studies Seminar, which provide opportunities for practical experience and the application of academic knowledge to real-world issues. In addition to the core courses, students must complete 12 units of concentration electives by selecting one of several concentrations such as Asian American Studies, Chicana/o Studies, General Ethnic Studies, Native American Studies, Pan African Studies, Teachers in Bilingual Education, or Teachers in Urban Settings. For example, students choosing the Pan African Studies concentration select four courses from a variety of topics that focus on the African diaspora, African American history, culture, politics, and social experiences. Course options may include Black Political Thought, African Religions and Philosophies, Black Women in America, The Black Family in the United States, Black Music and Black Consciousness, African Cultures and Societies, and African American Theatre and Culture. Along with the major requirements, students must also complete 43 units of General Education courses in areas such as communication, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to ensure a well-rounded academic foundation.