The Ethnic Studies Major/Minor

The Ethnic Studies major allows students to complete a comparative and integrative program of studies focused on experiences of racially and ethnically diverse groups and individuals in the United States, and to explore international origins and linkages. The major encompasses theoretical and methodological courses, comparative courses, and focused topical courses that will provide students with the skills to conduct the needed rigorous analysis of the experiences of diverse populations.

This major will be of interest and value to students who are interested in exploring the historical experiences of ethnically diverse individuals or groups as a primary interest, ad well as those preparing for careers that will involve working with diverse populations. The U.S. population is becoming increasingly diverse, due to population shifts linked to ongoing immigration and differential birthrates. According to U.S. Census Bureau projections, by 2050 non-Hispanic Whites will represent just one half of the population. Majoring in Ethnic Studies will prepare students for the U.S. of the future.

The new Ethnic Studies major was designed to allow students to double major in a traditional academic discipline in the humanities or social sciences. There are only two required courses; all other courses may be selected from a menu of choices. Students are also encouraged to explore their unique interests by pursuing independent study, internship, and research activities (which can be substituted toward the major, with prior approval of the Chief Adviser).