Bachelor of Arts in Chicano Studies

Chicanxs and Latinxs are the largest ethnic group in California. This segment of our population will have a major impact on our society, as its presence translates into an increasing economic and political influence. Crucial social, economic, and political decisions will be made that affect this group and the nation at large. The growth of Latinx-owned businesses, Spanish-language media networks, and political organizations are all indicators of the importance of Spanish-speaking people in the U.S. economy.

Chicano Studies majors are trained to analyze social issues, think critically, and conduct research. All majors receive applied as well as theoretical training with a school or community agency to observe firsthand the social issues and theories which they study. These skills are useful in professional life and are valued in the public and private sectors.

Students of non-Latinx origin find that Chicano and Latin American Studies courses are personally rewarding because they enable them to understand and relate to persons of different social and cultural backgrounds. Chicanx and Latinx students find these courses highly conducive to strengthening their sense of identity and pride in their heritage.

Students with a B.A. in Chicano Studies can enter master's or doctoral programs in the humanities and social sciences and in professional schools in such areas as Chicanx studies, ethnic studies, anthropology, political science, history, public administration, Latinx literature, multimedia, social work, and education. Also, students are encouraged to pursue double majors and minors; one in Chicano Studies and the second in a professional area of their preference. Students with questions related to their future careers or seeking advising assistance should consult with the major and minor advisors of the Chicano and Latin American Studies Department.

What You Can Learn

• The Latino population's contribution to the development of a multicultural nation during the late twentieth century
• About Latin America and its nations, history, problems, and realities
• Chicano artistic expression with attention to cultural continuity
• Analysis of the customs, values, belief systems, and their symbols

Students are strongly encouraged to pursue a double major and can take Chicano Studies either as a primary or secondary major. Chicano Studies majors and double majors are required to see a CLAS advisor during their first semester on campus.

1. Major requirements (33 units)

Lower-division requirements (6 units)

Basic Content: CLAS 3 or CLAS 5 (3 units)
Latin America: CLAS 70 (3 units)

Upper-division requirements (21 units)

U.S.-Mexico Relations: CLAS 114 or CLAS 115 (3 units)
Political and Economic Issues: CLAS 128 or CLAS 130 (3 units)
Arts and Humanities: CLAS 100, CLAS 102W, CLAS 106, or CLAS 108 (see note 1) (3 units)
Research Methods: CLAS 150 or CLAS 120 (3 units)
Family and Gender: CLAS 141, CLAS 160, or CLAS 162 (3 units)
Education: CLAS 143 (3 units)
Community Service/Senior Project: CLAS 145S or CLAS 172S (see note 1) (3 units)

Approved electives (6 units)
Consult your advisor.

2. General Education requirements (48 units)

3. Other requirements (6 units)
American Government and Institutions (PLSI 2), Multicultural and International (MI), and Upper-division writing

4. Sufficient elective units to meet required total units (varies)
It is recommended that units in this area be utilized to complete a second major or minor.

5. Total units (120)*

* G.E. and MI courses can be double-counted with major requirements. See advisor for details. General Education also may be applied to the Chicano studies major: CLAS 9 in G.E. C1, and CLAS 3 or 5 in G.E. D2.

Students who graduate with a B.A. in Chicano Studies or Latin American Studies work in such fields as education, public administration, psychology, marketing, journalism, social services, and throughout the public and private sectors. Physicians, educators, lawyers, counselors, civil service employees, and other professionals have found that training in Chicano and Latin American studies improves their abilities to serve their clients and enhance their employment and advancement opportunities.

What You Can Do

Pursue a career in:

• U.S.-Mexico Relations
• Teaching and Education
• Social Work and Counseling
• Law
• Government work