Skip To Main Content

Race & Ethnic Studies Minor

Purpose

Race & Ethnic Studies is an interdisciplinary minor that allows students to explore questions surrounding the issues of race, ethnicity, and racism in society. Taking courses in History, Sociology, Literature, Psychology, Political Science, Philosophy, Religion, and other related disciplines will allow students to learn how racial and ethnic identities have been constructed and defined throughout time, as well as how these identities intersect and overlap in meaningful ways. The three hour "Introduction to Race and Ethnic Studies course (ETHN200), will allow students to contextualize what they have learned about specific racial and ethnic identities in other courses within this broader, critical framework. In addition, the 1-hour capstone course (ETHN300) will allow them to work closely with an applicable faculty member to apply this knowledge in a research project. The minor will include two options: (1) a general Race and Ethnicity minor; or (2) the option to specialize with a concentration in Africana Studies or Latinx Studies, with the option to add additional concentrations in the future based on interest and availability of instructors. By completing this minor, students will gain skills and knowledge that will make them better global citizens; promote diversity, equity, and inclusion; support our university role as a laboratory of difference making; and better equip them with interpersonal and professional skill sets for various careers and/or graduate and professional studies.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Students will build a reflective awareness of their own and others’ racial and ethnic identities and their meaning.
  • Students will gain knowledge about the history of various racial and ethnic groups as well as how racial and ethnic identity impacts one’s lived experience in society.
  • Students will demonstrate the necessary knowledge and skills to be engaged members of a multi-racial and ethnic society.
  • Students will use their skills and knowledge to contribute to a more humane and civil society in which diversity is acknowledged and celebrated.
  • Students will demonstrate the depth of their knowledge and understanding of race and ethnic variation by successfully completing a capstone experience with a faculty mentor.