Welcome
Bienvenidos y gracias for your interest in the Chicana and Chicano Studies (CCS) undergraduate degree programs at the University of New Mexico. Chicana and Chicano Studies offers a traditional face-to-face degree program, an Online Program (AOP), a transfer program, a BA/MA Shared-Credit program, and an undergraduate minor program. Students should consider undergraduate programs in CCS if they are interested in studying within an interdisciplinary program focused on topics of gender and sexuality, race and ethnicity, arts and culture, political and social mobilization, immigration and citizenship, history, heritage, land grant studies, Chicana feminism, and queer studies. Chicana and Chicano Studies promotes a critical understanding of Chicano/Hispano/Mexicano communities through teaching, research, and advocacy.
What can you do with a Chicana and Chicano Studies Degree?
A degree in Chicana and Chicano Studies is valuable in a variety of fields. The skills you develop—like cultural competence, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of systemic issues—make you a strong candidate for roles that require addressing the complexities of multicultural, diverse populations. Here are some examples and professional fields a person with this degree can pursue careers in:
1. Education
You could teach at various levels (elementary, secondary, or higher education). Many universities and colleges have Chicana/o Studies departments or offer courses related to ethnic studies.
Design educational content that reflects Chicana/o culture and history, particularly in schools with diverse populations.
2. Social Services and Advocacy
Work in community services to assist marginalized groups, including immigrant populations, low-income families, or individuals facing discrimination.
Advocate for social justice issues related to race, immigration, labor rights, education, or environmental justice. Chicana/o Studies graduates often work in grassroots movements to empower underrepresented communities.
3.Government and Public Policy
Research and develop policies that address the needs of Chicana/o and other Latinx communities. You could work with local, state, or federal agencies.
- Public Relations or Communications Specialist
Work for government agencies, advocacy organizations, or cultural institutions to represent Chicana/o interests.
4.Nonprofit Sector
Many nonprofits focus on social justice, education, or cultural preservation. A Chicana/o Studies degree can be a stepping stone to running or coordinating initiatives that support marginalized communities.
- Program Director/Coordinator
Work on programs that promote the advancement of Chicana/o and Latinx communities in areas such as health, education, and economic development.
5.Media and Arts
Write articles, books, or produce content for media outlets that focus on issues impacting Chicana/o communities.
- Filmmaker or Documentarian
Create media projects that highlight Chicana/o culture, history, and contemporary struggles.
Work in museums, galleries, or cultural centers that focus on Chicana/o art and culture.
6. Legal Profession
Specialize in immigration law, civil rights, or social justice, where you can advocate for the rights of marginalized communities.
- Legal Assistant or Paralegal
Work with law firms or advocacy organizations that focus on immigration, civil liberties, or labor law.
7.Corporate and Marketing Roles
- Diversity and Inclusion Specialist
Work in organizations to create and implement strategies for diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping companies understand and support the Chicana/o and Latinx communities.
- Marketing/Brand Strategist
Work in businesses that want to reach diverse consumer bases or promote Latinx culture in products and services.
8.Research and Academia
Conduct research in various areas such as sociology, history, anthropology, or urban studies, specifically focusing on Chicana/o issues.
If you're inclined towards academia, you could pursue further studies (e.g., a master’s or PhD) to teach and conduct research in Chicana/o and Latinx studies.
