Department of Ethnic Studies
The Department of Ethnic Studies is a vibrant, interdisciplinary program that examines the historical, cultural, and social dynamics of race and ethnicity in the United States using comparative, intersectional, transnational, and decolonizing methods.
The Ethnic Studies curriculum offers an innovative, transformative program that addresses the lives, labor, and cultures of communities of color through ethnic-specific and comparative lenses. Our students actively explore issues of equity, power, and social justice in and out of the classroom through our unique partnerships with local and grassroots organizations throughout San Diego. We acknowledge that USD is built on Kumeyaay Indigenous homelands and are especially committed to engaging decolonizing methodologies and practices. Through our community-centered research, teaching, and curriculum, Ethnic Studies faculty and students bridge academic and community knowledges in order to address the needs of local and tribal communities.
Why Choose Ethnic Studies at USD?
Diverse Curriculum and Student Opportunities
Students are encouraged to forge their own course of study based on their passions and experiences, which empowers students to be independent, critical thinkers.
Community Outreach
Students are exposed to local, regional and global communities thereby expanding their knowledge of cultures, so they can become ethical/ empathetic leaders.
Engaged Faculty
Faculty are invested in the success of the department and each student - taking pride in collective successes - so students find mentors, advocates and friends in the ES faculty. This helps with letters of recommendation, advising and professional aspirations.
Practical Experience
Faculty are actively engaged in their own research projects, and students are able to work on these efforts alongside their faculty mentors.
In the News
USD Mobilizes ‘Turning Wheel’ Bus to Barrio Logan to Provide Free Internet Access and Community Resources for Families
// March 5, 2021
USD’s Turning Wheel mobile classroom hit the road for the first Turning Wheel Educational Connection - Conecta Educativa event at Cesa…
English Alumna Chelsea McLin Opens Online Bookshop
// November 9, 2020
Chelsea McLin, an English major (with Creative Writing emphasis) and Ethnic Studies minor who graduated in 2017, recently opened a small pop…
USD Connections: Expanding Beyond the Classroom
// June 15, 2020
There’s a silver lining in every challenging situation, even in the midst of a crisis. For Ethnic Studies Professor Alberto Pulido, Ph…
Upcoming Events
- Apr15
Department of Ethnic Studies
College of Arts and Sciences
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5998 Alcalá Park
San Diego, CA 92110