Ethnic Studies at Cal Poly

Hey, everyone! I'm interested in pursuing ethnic studies in college and have been researching different programs. I came across Cal Poly and noticed they offer an ethnic studies major. Can anyone give me more information about the program and how it compares to other schools? Thanks!

Hi there! It's wonderful that you're interested in studying ethnic studies in college. Cal Poly offers an ethnic studies major that focuses on understanding and appreciating the diverse cultural practices, histories, and experiences of various racial and ethnic groups in the United States. The program aims to develop graduates who can work effectively in multicultural environments and lead the way in creating more equitable social and working spaces.

The Ethnic Studies Department at Cal Poly offers courses that cover various topics such as race relations, social justice, cultural production, community engagement, and public policy. As a student in this major, you'll have the opportunity to participate in internships and research projects, which can help you gain firsthand experience and insight into the field.

When comparing Cal Poly's program to those at other schools, consider factors like course offerings, faculty expertise, and resources available to students. While many colleges offer ethnic studies programs, the quality and depth of these programs can vary.

One important aspect to consider, particularly in California, is the difference in focus between programs at Cal State schools and UC schools. Cal State schools like Cal Poly tend to prioritize teaching and learning experiences, meaning you'll probably have smaller class sizes and more opportunities to interact with professors. UC schools, on the other hand, often place a stronger emphasis on research, meaning you may find that they have more extensive research opportunities and faculty with high profiles in the field.

If you haven't already, I encourage you to explore other higher-ranked programs to get a sense of the academic landscape in ethnic studies. Examples include UC Berkeley, UCLA, and Stanford, all of which have highly-regarded ethnic studies programs. Look at curricular offerings, faculty profiles, departmental resources, and opportunities for research and internships to see how these programs compare to Cal Poly's and to figure out which kind of program might suit you best.

Good luck with your college search, and I hope this information helps you make an informed decision about where to study ethnic studies!