COURSE CURRICULUM

The Ethnic Studies major requires students to complete a total of 36 units that include lower division coursework, upper division core courses, and concentration electives. The program begins with the required lower division course, ETHN 11 Introduction to Ethnic Studies, which provides students with a foundation in the field by introducing key concepts related to race, ethnicity, culture, identity, and social inequality. This course also explores the historical development of ethnic communities in the United States and prepares students for more advanced study in the discipline. After completing the introductory course, students must complete 21 units of upper division core courses that focus on the histories, cultures, and social experiences of major ethnic groups. These courses include ETHN 100 Ethnic America, which examines the formation and development of ethnic communities and their contributions to 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. Students also complete ETHN 194 Research in Ethnic Studies, which focuses on research methods 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 social issues.In addition to the core courses, students must complete 12 units of concentration electives by selecting one of several concentrations, including Asian American Studies, Chicana/o Studies, General Ethnic Studies, Native American Studies, Pan African Studies, Teachers in Bilingual Education, or Teachers in Urban Settings. Students who choose the Teachers in Urban Settings concentration complete courses designed to prepare them for educational careers in diverse urban communities. Course options may include Educating Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Settings and its laboratory component, Introduction to Bilingual Education: Policies, Principles, Programs, and Practices, Cooperative Education Experience, Special Problems, and School Health Education. These courses help students understand the social, cultural, and educational challenges faced by students in urban schools while preparing them to create inclusive and supportive learning environments. In addition to the major requirements, students must complete 43 units of General Education courses in areas such as communication, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to ensure a broad academic foundation.