Bachelor of Arts in Race and Ethnic Studies

Explore the complexities of race, ethnicity, and social justice with a Bachelor of Arts in Race and Ethnic Studies degree from the University of Redlands.

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Arts

Program Types

Undergraduate

Mode of Study

On Campus

Department

Race and Ethnic Studies

School / College

College of Arts and Sciences

What is a race and ethnic studies degree?

A race and ethnic studies degree focuses on exploring the complex issues related to race, ethnicity, and racism from different viewpoints. You will explore topics such as immigration law, criminal justice reform, tribal government, public health policies, and educational justice issues.

Why should you major in race and ethnic studies at Redlands?

Majoring in race and ethnic Studies at Redlands will equip you with skills to champion social justice and tackle our nation’s biggest challenges. With the option to double major in psychology, business, sociology anthropology, or public policy, your education will set you apart from your peers and place you on a path towards a successful career. Through hands-on experiences including the opportunity for internships with partnering community organizations and agencies, you will be poised to make a positive impact on your community and society, driving global change as you choose from a variety of careers including education, social work, law, public policy advocacy, and nonprofit leadership.

Classes you'll take

The major requires 36 credits and spans various disciplines. You'll take REST courses along with cross-listed, concentration, and negotiable courses from other departments. The program structure is flexible, allowing you to dig deep into your area of interest while also gaining a broad understanding. Plus, there's a capstone experience where you'll bring it all together.

To view specific program requirements and coursework information, visit the current university catalog.

The major requires completion of:

Introductory Foundations Module

Complete at least 1 of the following courses:

REST120 - Introduction to Race and Ethnic Studies
REST130 - Introduction to Native American Studies
REST140 - Introduction to Chicana/o Studies

Complete 1 course in the following modules:

Theory and Social Justice Module

Courses in this module are designed to build student’s understanding of core theoretical concepts and how they can be applied to understand issues of racism, settler colonialism, power and intersectionality.

Institutional Power and Social Justice Module

Courses in this module focus on how racism and settler colonialism have been embedded in social structures and institutions.

Practice of Social Change Module

Courses in this module examines how activism in a variety of forms can be used to create social change and social justice. This study may also include opportunities for students to learn through the active engagement and practice of social change activities.

Diversity and Shared Experience of at least one Racialized Group

Courses in this module seek to deepen student’s understanding of the experiences of one racialized group.

Capstone

Complete ALL of the following Courses:

REST459 - Senior Capstone I - Project Design

Area of Emphasis

Students, in consultation with their REST advisor will develop an Area Emphasis tailored to provide students with in-depth understanding of an issue or theme of their choice. Courses in the Area of Emphasis will help majors explore and develop their own learning goals. selected from REST and REST cross-listed courses in consultation with a majoring student’s REST advisor.

Completion requirements:

Complete at least 1 of the following courses:

REST120 - Introduction to Race and Ethnic Studies
REST130 - Introduction to Native American Studies
REST140 - Introduction to Chicana/o Studies
REST238 - Literary Approaches to Gender, Race, and Ethnicity

Complete at least 4 minor electives

For the full list of courses view the current university catalog.

Undergraduate application deadlines

Fall 2025 - First Year

November 15, 2024 - Early Action

Fall 2025 - First Year

January 15, 2025 - Regular Decision*

Fall 2025 - Transfer

March 1, 2025 - Regular Decision*

Note

*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline based on capacity.

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What you'll learn

Systems evaluation

You will learn to thoroughly analyze how racism and settler colonialism are embedded in social systems and institutions, impacting people's daily lives.

Social construction

You will learn the history and study of how race is socially constructed and changes over time.

Power structures

You will learn to examine in detail how racism and settler colonialism function as oppressive forces that intersect with other power structures in a dynamic way.

Social change

You will learn how to evaluate the significance of activism and cultural resources in promoting social change and racial justice.

View catalog to learn more

What you'll learn

Mutiple media - Diverse group of students

Graduates pursue careers as

Educators

As a teacher you will work with students to help them master subjects in a classroom setting and prepare them for their careers.

Social workers

As a social worker you will work with community members in need for the betterment of their lives.

Lawyers

As a lawyer or judge, you will deliver justice with expert legal insight and unwavering advocacy.

Policy Advocates

As a public policy advocate you will work with various organizations for the betterment of society and your community.

Graduates pursue careers as

Redlands commencement graduate student procession

A faculty of mentors

Every Redlands faculty member is an active practitioner in their field. The classes they teach emerge from their unique research and practices, and they’re passionate about what they’re sharing.

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