COURSE CURRICULUM

The Ethnic Studies major requires students to complete 36 units of coursework consisting of lower division requirements, upper division core courses, and concentration electives. The program begins with a foundational lower division course, ETHN 11 Introduction to Ethnic Studies, which introduces students to the historical development of the field and provides an overview of major concepts related to race, ethnicity, identity, and social inequality. This course helps students understand the experiences and contributions of diverse ethnic communities in the United States while building a foundation for more advanced study. After completing the introductory course, students must complete 21 units of required upper division courses that examine the historical and contemporary experiences of major ethnic groups. These courses include ETHN 100 Ethnic America, which explores the development of ethnic communities and their roles in shaping American society. Additional required courses include 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 perspective on the cultural, social, and political histories of these communities. Students also complete ETHN 194 Research in Ethnic Studies, which focuses on research methods and critical analysis, 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 social 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, the Teachers in Bilingual Education concentration includes courses such as Educating Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Settings, Introduction to Bilingual Education: Policies, Principles, Programs, and Practices, Bilingualism in the Classroom, and School Health Education, which prepare students for educational careers in multilingual and multicultural environments. Along with the major requirements, students must also complete 43 units of General Education courses in communication, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to ensure a well-rounded academic background.