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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 at University of Redlands.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor of Arts
Program Types
Undergraduate, Major, Minor
Mode of Study
On Campus
Department
Race and Ethnic StudiesSchool / College
College of Arts and SciencesWhat is a race and ethnic studies degree?
A race and ethnic studies (REST) degree explores the complex issues of race, ethnicity, and racism so you can understand the social forces that shape our past, present, and future. You can explore 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 the 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 and internships with community organizations and agencies, you will be poised to make a positive impact in your community and society. Graduates pursue careers in fields such as 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.
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 of Emphasis tailored to provide them with in-depth understanding of an issue or theme of their choice. Courses in the Area of Emphasis will help students explore and develop their own learning goals. They are selected from REST and REST cross-listed courses in consultation with a majoring student’s REST advisor.
Why should you minor in race and ethnic studies at Redlands?
The race and ethnic studies minor is designed to prepare you to thrive in an increasingly diverse and global American society. It complements any major and positions you to stand out as an empathetic and effective leader, ready to make a meaningful impact in your career and community.
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 Term - First Year
Early Action 1: November 1
Fall Term - First Year
Early Action 2: December 1
Fall Term - First Year
Regular Decision: January 15*
Spring Term - First Year
Deadline: November 1*
Fall Term - Transfer
Priority Deadline: March 1*
Spring Term - Transfer
Priority Deadline: November 1*
Note
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline based on capacity.
What you'll learn
You will learn to analyze how race and gender are socially constructed and embedded in institutions and knowledge systems.
You will learn to analyze how racism, settler colonialism, class, gender, and sexuality operate as intersecting relations of power and oppression.
You will learn to evaluate how activism and cultural resources have and can be used to create social change and social justice.
What you'll learn
Being part of the REST community was very meaningful to me because it meant I could bring what I learn home to impact my community. I can do anything with this major.
Kyrin Skinaway ‘25, race and ethnic studies
Graduates pursue careers as
As an educator, you will work with students to help them master subjects in a classroom setting and prepare them for their careers.
As a social worker, you will work with community members in need for the betterment of their lives.
As a lawyer or judge, you will deliver justice with expert legal insight and unwavering advocacy.
As a public policy advocate, you will work with various organizations for the betterment of society and your community.
Graduates pursue careers as
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.
Lawrence W. Gross
Full Professor; San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Endowed Chair of Native American Studies
Jennifer Tilton
Chair / Professor
Kathryn Tucker
Associate Professor; Seiter Endowed Chair of Writing
Want to know more?
Get in touch with our admissions team.
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