COURSE CURRICULUM

University of Colorado Denver offers a flexible and inclusive degree program in Ethnic Studies that is designed to support students from diverse multicultural and multiethnic backgrounds while preparing them for future academic and professional success. The degree requires 33 credit hours in ethnic studies and can be completed fully online or through on-campus classes, making it accessible for both traditional and non-traditional students. The curriculum is built to help students understand historical and contemporary issues related to race, ethnicity, identity, culture, and social justice while developing strong analytical, communication, and research skills. Coursework includes subjects such as African American History, Social History of Asian Americans, History of the American Indian, Chicano and Latino History, Research Methods in Ethnic Studies, Media and Ethnic Studies, and a Capstone course that allows students to apply their knowledge to advanced projects and real-world issues. Through these courses, students explore the experiences, struggles, achievements, and contributions of different communities while gaining a deeper understanding of cultural diversity, inequality, representation, and social change. In addition to major coursework, students complete the CU Denver Core Curriculum, which includes studies in English, mathematics, arts and humanities, behavioral sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, and international and cultural diversity perspectives. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences core courses further strengthen practical academic skills through subjects such as writing and presenting, literature and culture, behavioral science, social sciences, natural and physical sciences, and mathematics. The program emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, communication, and community engagement, helping students become informed and socially aware individuals capable of working effectively in diverse professional and social environments. Graduates are prepared for careers in education, law, journalism, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, social work, public policy, media, healthcare, and community advocacy while also developing the leadership and problem-solving abilities needed to contribute positively to an increasingly multicultural and interconnected world.