Course Overview!

The Master of Arts in Chicana(o) and Latina(o) Studies is a graduate program designed for students seeking advanced study towards a Ph.D., teaching positions in various educational settings (community colleges, secondary, or elementary schools), or professional roles in private agencies or government service. The program emphasizes the study of Chicana/o and Latina/o communities, their history, culture, and experiences. Students will engage with theoretical frameworks, community-engaged research methods, and interdisciplinary approaches to understand the complexities of race, gender, and queer identities within these communities. The program prepares students for careers in academia, education, and community advocacy.

Course Structure

The program requires 30 units, with at least 15 units at the 5000-level. Core courses (18 units) include CLS 4290 (Chicana Feminisms), CLS 4400 (Joteria Expressions), CLS 5010 (Theoretical Frameworks), CLS 5030 (Community-Engaged Research Methods), CLS 5050 (Interdisciplinary Approaches), CLS 5100 (Teaching Seminar), and CLS 5110 (Praxis in Communities). Directed electives (9-12 units) allow students to further specialize their studies. Specific course content varies depending on the chosen electives. Students select 9 units of electives for CLS 5990 and 12 for CLS 5960. CLS 4000 level courses may be used as electives but not to fulfill core requirements.