Ethnic Studies
Prepare to advance social justice
Learn about the histories, cultures, and intellectual traditions of indigenous communities and peoples of color in the United States as well as their contemporary achievements and challenges. Learn how to apply this knowledge—together with critical theories, analytical methods, and communication skills—to address complex social, political, and economic problems. The ethnic studies program will prepare you to become a transformative leader who advances positive peace and social justice in a variety of professions and community contexts.

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Where an Ethnic Studies degree can take you
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Education careers
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Public policy
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NPO/NGO work
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Graduate school
Ethnic Studies Emphases
Students in the Ethnic Studies major must select either a “Latin American and Latinx Studies emphasis” or “Intercultural Peace Studies & Restorative Justice emphasis” to complete their course of study. We plan to introduce an “Africana and African-American Studies emphasis” in the 2022-2023 academic year, and other areas of emphasis in subsequent years.
Learning Outcomes
Historical and Cultural Foundations
Recall, describe, and critically evaluate the histories, cultures, intellectual traditions, as well as contemporary accomplishments and challenges of indigenous communities and peoples of color in the United States.
Theories and Methods
Recall, describe, and critically evaluate major theoretical frameworks (historical and contemporary) on race and ethnicity—especially those that advance or hinder the dismantling of structures of oppression.
Recall and describe a range of interdisciplinary research methods, and apply them to analyze case studies.
Written and Oral Communication
Construct and defend persuasive arguments based on the critical evaluation of evidence.
Praxis and Personal Transformation
Apply all of the above to design a project that entails working with community members to identify structures and practices of injustice, then formulating (and enacting) a response that can lead to positive peace.
Describe how their goals and their views on ways to achieve such goals have evolved during their time in the ethnic studies program.
Research and reflect on potential career pathways and further study or training opportunities to pursue their professional and personal goals.