Ethnic Studies, BA
The skills you develop as an Ethnic Studies major will help you work effectively across communities and cultures.
Our highly respected, devoted faculty will guide you through the cultural and social histories of African American, Latino, Native American, and Asian American/Pacific Islander ethnic groups. Through coursework and service learning opportunities, you will grow to understand the social, historical, economic, and religious factors that have affected and continue to affect ethnic groups in the U.S.
Whatever you choose to do, your diversity competence and your communication and critical thinking skills will be a vital asset to our ever-evolving world.
Learn More About Our Program
Get to know our well-respected faculty and their academic expertise. Or explore internship opportunities and an array of study abroad possibilities.
Curriculum
Earn an Ethnic Studies, BA and a Single-Subject Teaching Credential at Saint Mary's in just four years through our Single Subject Teaching Credential Integrated Pathway!
What can you do with a degree in Ethnic Studies?
With a degree in Ethnic Studies, you can analyze race, power, and culture to drive equity-focused work in education, policy, community organizations, and media.
(*Some careers may require graduate school or additional study)
Ethnic Studies Educator
Developing and teaching a curriculum on the history, culture, and social/political experiences of various ethnic and racial groups, particularly from the standpoint of people of color in the United States. Key responsibilities involve creating lesson plans, facilitating discussions, evaluating student work, and maintaining a positive, and inclusive learning environment.
Community Organizer / Program Coordinator
Mobilize residents, build coalitions, and run initiatives that address local needs.
Equity and Inclusion Program Manager
Design training, assess climate, and implement inclusion strategies in schools or workplaces.
Public Policy / Legislative Analyst
Research impacts on marginalized communities; draft briefs and policy recommendations.
Social Services Case Manager
Connect clients to resources; advocate across housing, health, and education systems.
Youth Development / Education Specialist
Create culturally responsive curricula, after-school programs, and college access support.
Nonprofit Development / Grant Writer
Secure funding; write proposals and impact reports aligned with social-justice missions.
Researcher / Data Analyst (Community or Academic)
Apply qualitative/quantitative methods to evaluate programs and inform decision-making.
Communications / Advocacy Specialist
Craft campaigns, op-eds, and digital content that elevate community voices
What's Happening Now
Testimonials
“The Ethnic Studies Program offers intentional curriculum and fosters a respectful classroom community that encouraged my personal and academic growth and equipped me with a multidisciplinary skill set that I’ve utilized in many areas. With mentorship from expert professors, my Ethnic Studies senior thesis allowed me to explore complex questions about race and ethnicity that inspired me to pursue a career in research. Thanks to Ethnic Studies at Saint Mary’s College, I’m now working towards a PhD in Mexican American and Latino Studies at UT Austin in hopes of becoming a tenure track professor and contributing to knowledge about race and identity.”
Annaliese Martinez ’21