Ethnic Studies

Program Description

The Ethnic Studies program at the University of Utah explores differences in power as expressed by the state, civil society, and individuals, challenging social constructions of race, ethnicity, nationality, sexuality and gender. Students examine traditional forms of history and culture from the perspective of people who are underrepresented, while considering the role that race and racism play in today’s world. The curriculum includes required courses in Ethnic Studies experiences and theory, as well as electives from six different content groups: African American Studies, American Indian Studies, Asian Pacific American Studies, Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x Studies, Pacific Islands Studies, and general Ethnic Studies. Through your coursework, you will learn to conceptualize socio-historical and political issues from the viewpoints of the various peoples that constitute U.S. diverse populations, using various disciplinary frameworks to do so. You can then apply this framework to current issues of race, gender and ethnicity. Students with this degree work in any career field - healthcare, nonprofit, business, government – bringing their knowledge working with historically underserved populations into their industries.

The Student Experience

Enrich your academic pursuits by completing an undergraduate research project with one of our Ethnic Studies faculty, complete a Transform year-long internship, or study abroad program. Students can also get involved in their department by joining the Transform College Student Council (CSC), to assist in planning events for Transform students, provide feedback regarding faculty appointments and promoting Ethnic Studies around campus and in the community.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Ethnic Studies program have found work in every career field – business, education, health, nonprofit, and social services - putting their critical thinking and analytical skills to work. If you plan to attend graduate school, Ethnic Studies is a great undergrad foundation for programs in Ethnic Studies, sociology, law, social work, education, psychology, public administration, and multiple health programs (med school, public health).

More Info

• Division of Ethnic Studies
• School for Cultural & Social Transformation
• Department Advising
• U Career Success

Catalog

• Ethnic Studies BA/BS
• Ethnic Studies Minor

Exploratory Classes

• ETHNC 2500 - Intro to Ethnic Studies
• ETHNC 2540 - American Muslim Experiences
• ETHNC 2550 - African American Experiences
• ETHNC 2560 - Chicana/o & Latina/o Experiences
• ETHNC 2570 - American Indian Experiences
• ETHNC 2580 - Asian American Experiences
• ETHNC 2590 - Pacific Islander American Experiences