Dedman College Majors

ethnic studies

Examine the African-American and Mexican-American experiences through the social sciences and humanities by majoring in ethnic studies. As an interdisciplinary program, ethnic studies will challenge you to compare ethnic communities across numerous liberal arts topics including history, literature, anthropology, music, art, religion, and political science.

You'll examine the roots of traditions and the fabric of minorities in today's society. The oral, written, research, and critical-thinking skills you gain are extremely relevant for the 21st century. Choose the Bachelor of Arts degree path if you prefer a broader spectrum of liberal arts courses; the Bachelor of Science degree incorporates research methods.

Degree Highlights

B.A. in Ethnic Studies
Minimum 33 hours with specialization in either African and African-American studies
OR
Minimum 34 hours with specialization in Mexican-American studies

B.S. in Ethnic Studies
Minimum 36 hours with specialization in either African and African-American studies
OR
Minimum 37 hours with specialization in Mexican-American studies

Minor in Ethnic Studies
Minimum 18 hours with specialization in either African and African-American studies
OR
Minimum 19 hours with specialization in Mexican-American studies

Related Majors and Minors

Ethnic studies majors can consider pursuing related disciplines, such as economics, political science, business, journalism, foreign languages, and history.

Careers

Your ability to analyze and interpret data, communicate effectively, and relate to multicultural issues is an asset for landing a job in many fields. Teaching, social work, law, international relations, journalism, and business are only a few of many career paths open to ethnic studies majors.

Faculty

Guided by some of the best and brightest professors at SMU, you’ll have a chance to work on original research. Instructors comprise faculty members from history, anthropology, English, sociology, political science, and religious studies. Professors maintain an environment that is at once challenging and focused on your individual success.

Internships & Study Abroad

Dedman College students get paid internships through the Hegi Family Career Development Center. Students majoring in ethnic studies may be eligible to earn up to three (3) graded credits toward their degrees by enrolling for unpaid, faculty-directed internships through the Dedman College Internship Program.

SMU Study Abroad Program opportunities abound. Choose from yearlong, semester, or summer programs at locations around the globe. These programs are the most beneficial, especially to those concentrating in Mexican-American studies: SMU-in-Xalapa, Mexico, and SMU-in-Spain.