Core Courses
RACE AND Ethnic Studies
Major and Concentration
CONCENTRATION – 5 Credits
Students may not have both a major in Race and Ethnic Studies and a concentration in Race in Ethnic Studies, but must choose one or the other. Learn more information about the courses and the program requirements in the academic catalog.
RACE 121
Introduction to Race and Ethnic Studies
This course provides an introduction to critical concepts and key readings about race and racism that are important to the field of Ethnic Studies. Focusing on identities and communities, students learn about racial formation and difference in U.S. and comparative cultural and historical contexts. How does race intersect with class, gender, nation, and sexuality to produce privileges and oppressions? Students survey the emergence of Ethnic Studies to become acquainted with interdisciplinary approaches and how concerns for racial equity and social justice formed this academic field.
RACE 396
Directed Undergraduate Research
RACE capstone
How is academic work in Race and Ethnic Studies enabled or transformed by an openness to creativity? And how is creative work–in fields such as film, music, literature, and visual art–enabled or transformed by research? In this seminar, students encounter foundational and contemporary work that addresses one or both of these questions. In the second half of the semester, students pursue individual projects (academic, creative, or both) that serve as their response. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Major and Concentration
CONCENTRATION – 5 Credits
Students may not have both a major in Gender and Sexuality Studies and a concentration in Gender and Sexuality Studies, but must choose one or the other. Learn more information about the courses and the program requirements in the academic catalog.
GSS 121
Introduction to Gender and Sexuality Studies
Required for the gender and sexuality studies major and concentration, this course introduces students to the concept of gender as a category of analysis. It is designed for students who seek a fuller understanding of themselves as gendered individuals living in a gendered society – all genders are encouraged to participate! Offered every semester.
GSS 399
Advanced Topics in Gender and Sexuality Studies
GSS capstone
The course provides a capstone to the major. Taught as a seminar, it offers an opportunity for students to integrate their studies of women and gender across disciplines and to become more aware of the intricate web of gender, race, culture, and class that informs women’s experiences. Offered annually in the spring semester.
Academic Internships and Independent Study
Majors and concentrators within a REGSS program may count one independent study/research or academic internship toward their degree progress. Whether and internship, study, or research; you will want to identify a faculty member who will serve as your supervisor.
RACE/GSS 294-394: Academic Internship
To seek RACE or GSS credit for an academic internship, contact the program director about your intended plans and consult the Piper Center’s guidelines for academic internships. You will also want to identify an affiliated REGSS faculty member who will serve as your internship supervisor. Students can seek credit with a 294 or 394 course.
RACE/GSS 398: Independent Study/Research
Independent work is guided by a faculty member. Students need to have the necessary background, including appropriate coursework, before an independent project is approved. A student may not substitute an IS/IR course for a course regularly offered in a department or program. IS/IR culminates in at least one product (a paper, laboratory report, work of art, etc.). Normally, the student and faculty instructor are expected to meet at least once a week. See catalog for more information under registration and course enrollment.
Elective Courses
Please see the complete listing of permanently approved courses (pre-approved courses) that count towards a RACE or GSS major or concentration in the For lists of upcoming electives in other departments and programs, please search SIS for courses listed under the Race and Ethnic Studies major/concentration.