Ethnic Studies
Ethnic Studies
The Division of Ethnic Studies is the only bachelor’s degree and tenure-granting Ethnic Studies program in the intermountain region, giving us national prominence across the country. Ethnic Studies was officially established at the U on an interdisciplinary/interdepartmental basis in 1973, with separate programs for Black, Chicano/a and Native American Studies. An Asian Pacific American Studies program was added in 1989. Our program has continued to evolve over the decades to reflect student interests and the dedicated labor of community partners, staff and faculty. Whether you want to take a broad approach or focus on a specific community, our programs have something for you.
Ethnic Studies Degrees
We offer a major (BS and BA), with options for four different areas of emphasis, and five minorsEthnic Studies is a multifaceted field of study that examines patterns of power and domination as well as strategies for liberation and self determination. Students have the option of pursuing a broad degree in Ethnic Studies or specializing in a major emphasis.
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Ethnic Studies B.A. / B.S.
30 Credits
Our interdisciplinary majors allow you to maximize your knowledge of issues affecting underrepresented communities. The curriculum explores differences in power as expressed by the state, civil society, and individuals, challenging social constructions of race, ethnicity, nationality, sexuality, and gender.
degree requirements check your progress
Ethnic Studies Emphases
12 Credits
Students pursuing an Ethnic Studies major can now choose to further refine their degree by specializing in one or more of the major emphases. Completion of a major emphasis will be reflected on your degree transcript with no additional credits added to major requirements. Show your expertise to the world by pursuing an Ethnic Studies major with an emphasis in:
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- American Indian Studies
- Asian American Studies
- Latinx Studies
- Migration & Diaspora Studies
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Ethnic Studies Minor
18 Credits
Ethnic Studies is a multifaceted field of study that examines patterns of power and domination as well as strategies for liberation and self determination.
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African American Studies Minor
18 Credits
Under African American Studies Minor, revise text to read: African American Studies focuses on historical and contemporary issues faced by peoples of African, African American, and African Caribbean heritage in the U.S.
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American Indian Studies Minor
18 Credits
American Indian Studies focuses on historical and contemporary issues faced by indigenous and Native American communities in the U.S.
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Asian/Pacific American Studies Minor
18 Credits
Asian Pacific American Studies focuses on historical and contemporary issues faced by peoples of the Asian and Pacific Islands diaspora in the U.S.
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Chicana/o & Latina/o Studies Minor
18 Credits
Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/x Studies focuses on historical and contemporary issues faced by communities with Chicanx, Latinx and/or Mexican American heritage in the U.S.
Students who pursue a major in Ethnic Studies are required to participate in a Signature Experience before they graduate. Students can choose among several options and pursue the path that is right for them.
Signature Experience options include:
- Dive deep into questions that excite you. Work alongside a faculty mentor to create original scholarship and acquire key analytical and communication skills. https://research.humanities.utah.edu/student-research-support.php
- Connect your academic training to the workplace. Gain hands-on experience, build your network, and apply your knowledge in real-world settings. https://humanities.utah.edu/internships/index.php
- Community Engagement. Use your expertise to create positive change. Partner with local organizations, tackle pressing social issues, or develop solutions that benefit your community.