Coursework offered in this minor will engage students as they dissect the socially constructed concepts of race and ethnicity and discover how these concepts affect economic, political, and social phenomena. Students will have the opportunity to explore the intersection of race, class, and gender using critical thinking skills and multi-disciplinary and comparative perspectives.
The coursework required for the Ethnic Studies Minor exposes you to theoretical and critical analyses of race and ethnicity. This minor can be a valuable addition to a History, English, Business, Education, or Anthropology major, to name just a few. The comparative and interdisciplinary courses offer foundational perspectives on four underrepresented groups: African Americans, Asian Americans, Chicano(as)/Latino(as), and Native Americans.
We emphasize developing relationships with organizations whose work strengthens multicultural and multiracial relationships locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. You will be encouraged to seek out internships which provide you the opportunity to incorporate community service with your academic training.
A minor is earned in conjunction with a bachelor's degree.
To receive a minor (18 - 24 units) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. At least 12 units of the minor must be unique to that minor and not applied to any other minor.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
No more than fifty percent of the units used to satisfy minor requirements may be used to satisfy major requirements.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 21 |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Optional |
Purpose Statement
The Ethnic Studies Program introduces students to theoretical, historical, and critical analyses of race and ethnicity in the United States, as well as to central questions, topics, and applications that have emerged in this field of inquiry around the world. Students explore ways in which race and ethnicity have historically evolved, their relationships to power and inequity, and their intersections with other axes of stratification, including gender, sexuality, class, and culture.
Using theories and methods from African American Studies, Asian American Studies, Chicano/Latino/a Studies and Native American Studies, students engage in comparative and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding a diverse society and world. Through Ethnic Studies, students will develop relationships with organizations and individuals who are multicultural and multiracial in local, regional, and global contexts. The interpersonal skills and knowledge practices of underrepresented groups will benefit students of all backgrounds in their personal, professional and career development.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students who study Ethnic Studies courses will be able to:
More Information
Take the following 21 units:
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.