COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies at CSUSB is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, disability, and citizenship, emphasizing the critical study of systems and structures of oppression. The program requires a total of 30 units, which are structured to give students a strong foundation, research experience, and opportunities to specialize in areas of interest. The lower-division core consists of three units that introduce students to Ethnic Studies through either ES 1000, Introduction to Ethnic Studies, or ES 1400, Race, Class, Gender and Sexuality, providing a conceptual framework for understanding social inequality and historical context. Students also complete three additional units from foundational courses such as ES 1020, Introduction to Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x Studies, ES 1100, Introduction to Native Studies, or ES 2200, Women of Color Feminisms, which focus on the experiences, struggles, and contributions of historically marginalized communities.Research and seminar courses form another critical component, with six units dedicated to ES 3000, Research Methods in Ethnic Studies, and ES 5940, Senior Seminar, enabling students to gain essential methodological skills, conduct independent research, and synthesize knowledge across multiple disciplines. The remaining eighteen units are electives, allowing students to explore diverse topics and develop expertise in areas such as Black Feminist Movements, Queer of Color Critique, Transnational Feminisms, Environmental Racism, and more. Electives also include experiential opportunities, such as ES 5753, Internship in Ethnic Studies, and ES 5953, Independent Study, to engage students in real-world applications of theory and scholarship.Overall, the program emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary analysis, and social responsibility, preparing graduates for careers in public policy, social work, law, education, community organizing, and research. By integrating theory, methodology, and applied practice, the B.A. in Ethnic Studies equips students with the skills to analyze power dynamics, advocate for social justice, and contribute meaningfully to diverse communities. Graduates are also well-positioned for advanced study in the humanities and social sciences.