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Chicana/o Studies
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CHICANA/CHICANO STUDIES
College of Arts and Humanities
Division of World Cultural and Gender Studies
Department of Chicana/o Studies
Bachelor of Arts
Arts, Aesthetics, and Performance Concentration
Culture, History, and Political
Development Concentration
Education, Social and Community
Development Concentration
Language and Literature Concentration
Minor
Faculty
Marisela Chávez, Department Chair
Corina Benavides López, José R. López Morín
Department Office: LCH C-316, (310) 243-3326 or 243-3327
Program Description
Undergraduate
The Chicana/Chicano Studies (CHS) major emphasizes preparation for those interested in teaching; specialists in bilingual and cross-cultural education; majors in other academic fields who wish to include an additional scope in their field; students pursuing advanced degrees (M.A., M.S.W., Ph.D., or J.D.); and those entering a variety of occupations such as business, communications, urban affairs, government, social work, school administration, counseling, criminology, law, foreign services and other related fields. CHS offers an undergraduate degree program with four concentrations: Arts, Aesthetics, and Performance; Culture, History, and Political Development; Education, Social and Community Development; and Language and Literature.
In addition, the CHS Department sponsors an extensive public programming calendar throughout the academic year, including the annual Chicana and Chicano Studies Department Lecture Series. The CHS Department also co-sponsors the annual campus-wide Día de los Muertos celebration and the annual Dolores Huerta Graduation Celebration. In support of student organizations, Chicana/Chicano Studies faculty members serve as advisors and work closely with the following student organizations: the Chicana/o Studies Club, MEChA, Espíritu de Nuestro Futuro, Hermanas Unidas, and Latina/o Greek organizations.
Features
The Major and Minor in Chicana/Chicano Studies provide several distinct advantages to students by:
- placing emphasis on critical thinking and research;
- promoting students to consider graduate school for specialization in Chicana and Chicano Studies and other disciplines;
- promoting greater understanding and awareness of Chicana/o community needs and circumstances;
- promoting greater appreciation of the contributions of Chicano/as and other indigenous groups to the total development of the American Southwest or Greater Mexico;
- training leaders, both inside and outside of minority communities, to work in challenging careers working in minority affairs, and;
- preparing them in other fields, such as public policy, immigration affairs, community organization, performing arts; and
- empowering them to document the historical realities of Chicana/o people.
Academic Advisement
All majors in Chicana and Chicano Studies are to have a faculty advisor. Students either select an advisor, or have one assigned to them. Students work closely with faculty and associates to prepare them for academic success and possible career choices.
Career Options for Chicana/Chicano Studies
- attend graduate school
- work for the federal, state, city or local government
- K-12 teaching
- college and university teaching
- counseling and advising
- criminology
- social work and human resources
- journalism
- media and business networking
- community organizing
- work in the private sector
- Public Administration
- continue on to a Master's degree or a professional degree
- foundation for Ph.D. in Chicana/o Studies, Ethnic Studies, Comparative Cultures, Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, History, Art, Spanish, or English
- opportunities to travel and study abroad
Preparation
Although not required, both high school and community college students wishing to major or minor in Chicana and Chicano Studies are encouraged to take courses related to Chicana/o experiences. In particular, students are advised to study Spanish grammar and communication since Spanish fluency is an essential feature to understand the Mexican and Chicana/o people.
Graduation with Honors
An undergraduate student may graduate with Honors in Chicana/o Studies provided that the following criteria are met:
- A minimum of 36 units in residence at CSU Dominguez Hills;
- A minimum grade point average of at least 3.5 in all courses used to satisfy the upper division requirements in the major;
- Recommendation by the faculty of the Chicana/o Studies Department.
Bachelor of Arts in Chicana/o Studies
Total Course Requirements for the Bachelor's Degree
See the "Requirements for the Bachelor's Degree" in the University Catalog for complete details on general degree requirements. A minimum of 40 units, including those required for the major, must be upper division.
Elective Requirements
Completion of elective courses (beyond the requirements listed below) to reach a total of a minimum of 120 units.
General Education Requirements (55-62 units)
See the "General Education" requirements in the University Catalog or the Class Schedule for the most current information on General Education requirements and course offerings.
Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement
See the "Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement" in the University Catalog.
Minor Requirements
No minor required.
Major Requirements (39 units)
The following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, are required of all candidates for this degree.
A. Required Courses (24 units)
1. Lower Division Required Courses (12 units):
CHS 100. The Americas : Cultural & Historical Synthesis (3)
CHS 200. Key Themes in Chicana/o and Latina/o History (3)
CHS 205. Introduction to Chicano Literature (3)
CHS 212. Introduction to Comparative Ethnic and Global Societies (3)
2. Upper Division Required Courses (12 units):
CHS 300. Introduction to Chicana/Chicano Studies (3)
CHS 460. Las Chicanas (3)
CHS 480. Chicano Folklore (3)
CHS 497. Research Methods in the Chicana/o Community (3)
B. Capstone Requirement (3 units):
CHS 490. Theories and Methods in Chicana/o Studies (3)
C. Concentration Requirements. Select four courses (12 units):
1. Language and Literature:
CHS 210. Representation of Indigenous People in the Americas (3)
CHS 216. Introduction to Aztec/Mexica Language and Culture (3)
CHS 225. Introduction to Mexican and Chicano Poetry and Music (3)
CHS 295. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 450. Pre-Colombian Literature of Mexico (3)
CHS 485. Intellectual Traditions in the Americas (3)
CHS 495. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 498. Directed Research in Chicana/o Studies (3)
SPA 221. Intermediate Spanish II (3)
SPA 435. A Sociolinguistic Approach to Chicano/Latino Dialect (3)
SPA 456. Literature of Spanish America (3)
SPA 461. Lecturas Mexicanas y Chicanas (3)
2. Education, Social, and Community Development:
CHS 295. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 315. Changing Dynamics in "Raza" Communities (3)
CHS 396. Practicum in Chicana and Chicano Studies (3)
CHS 400. Chicana/o Issues in Education and Society (3)
CHS 486. Chicana/o Family and Gender Issues (3)
CHS 495. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 496. Internship (3)
CHS 497. Research Methods in the Chicano Community (3)
CHS 498. Directed Research in Chicana/o Studies (3)
PSY 380. Psychology of the Mexican American (3)
SBS 318. Cultural Pluralism: Chicana/os in the United States (3)
3. Culture, History, and Political Development:
ANT 333. Ancient Peoples of Mexico and Guatemala (3)
CHS 295. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 325. Chicana/o Movement (3)
CHS 470. The Mexican Revolution in Art and Literature (3)
CHS 471. Mexican Thought, Social Activism, and Political Ideology (3)
CHS 495. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 498. Directed Research in Chicana/o Studies (3)
HIS 345. History of the Mexican American People I (3)
HIS 346. History of the Mexican American People II (3)
HIS 368. Mexico : Colonial Period (3)
POL 343. Political Behavior in Latin America (3)
POL 344. Latin America: The Revolutionary Tradition (3)
SPA 351. Contemporary Hispanic Culture: Spanish-Speaking America (3)
4. Arts, Aesthetics, and Performance:
ART 353. Art of California and the Southwest (3)
ART 363. Latin American Art (3)
CHS 125. Introduction to Chicano and Latino Musical Cultures (3)
CHS 225. Introduction to Mexican and Chicano Poetry & Music (3)
CHS 295. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 410. Chicana/o Popular Culture (3)
CHS 495. Special Topics in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 498. Directed Research in Chicana/o Studies (3)
MUS 170. Chamber Music (3)
THE 339. Multicultural Children's Theatre: Teatro Dominguez (3)
THE 490. Seminar in Theatre Arts: Chicano Theatre, Masks (3)
Minor in Chicana/Chicano Studies (18 units)
A. Recommended Lower Division Electives
1. Required Lower Division Courses. Select three courses from the list below (9 units):
CHS 100. The Americas : Cultural & Historical Synthesis (3)
CHS 200. Key Themes in Chicana/o and Latina/o History (3)
CHS 205. Introduction to Chicano Literature (3)
CHS 212. Introduction to Comparative Ethnic and Global Societies (3)
2. Required Upper Division Courses. Select three courses from the list below (9 units):
CHS 300. Introduction to Chicana/Chicano Studies (3)
CHS 460. Las Chicanas (3)
CHS 480. Mexican American Folklore (3)
CHS 490. Theories and Methods in Chicana/o Studies (3)
CHS 497. Research Methods in the Chicano Community (3)
Course Offerings
The credit value for each course in semester units is indicated for each term by a number in parentheses following the title. For course availability, please see the list of tentative course offerings in the current Class Schedule.
Lower Division
CHS 100 The Americas : Cultural and Historical Synthesis (3).
An in-depth study of the Mexican Indian, African and European peoples who created major New World mestizo culture that influence a significant portion of the Western Hemisphere today.
CHS 110 High-Tech Research Methods (1).
Introduction to modern research techniques utilizing the latest computer technology. Emphasis will be on use of online resources of the University Library and resources beyond: union catalogs for the CSU and UC systems; collections online; internet search engines, etc.
CHS 125 Introduction to Chicano and Latino Musical Cultures in the United States (3).
The course examines musical expressions of Chicano and Latino peoples in the present geographical boundaries of the United States. The course emphasizes the intercultural dynamics in the formation of Chicano and Latino music which incorporates African, American, Native American, and European roots.
CHS 195 Special Topics in Chicana/Chicano Studies (3).
A study of an issue, concept or theme in Chicana/Chicano Studies. Three hours of lecture per week. Repeatable for a maximum of twelve units for credit.
CHS 200 Key Themes in Chicano/a and Latino/a History (3).
Explores the history and experiences of Chicanos/as and Latinos/as in the United States in the 19th and 20th Centuries and will explore the following themes: immigration, migration, labor, education, gender roles, and community organizations.
CHS 205 Introduction to Chicano Literature (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 100 recommended.
An introduction to selected works of modern Chicano literature including an analysis of influences, themes, and techniques. Special attention given to certain issues of the Chicano experience reflected in the literature. Frequent written assignments.
CHS 210 Representation of Indigenous People in the Americas (3).
An introduction to the different forms on indigenous representation with special emphasis on Mesoamerica. Discussions of how these accounts are expressed, perceived, and constructed at the point of European contact will be examined.
CHS 212 Introduction to Comparative Ethnic and Global Societies (3).
The course will explore the lived experiences and gendered complexities of Ethnic/Global communities as they relate to historical and contemporary international and global forces. The course will examine the economic and socio-cultural dynamics of the global interdependencies of Indigenous, Latino, Asian-Pacific and Africana communities and women's lived experiences within and across these communities.
CHS 216 Introduction to Aztec/Mexica Language & Culture (3).
Study of the Mexica Culture and Nahuatl languages as reflected in 16th Century manuscripts. Designed to give students an indigenous cultural and linguistic perspective to read and analyze passages from primary sources in classic Nahuatl.
CHS 225 Introduction to Mexican and Chicano Poetry & Music (3).
An introduction to Mexican/Chicano poetry and music from the Spanish Conquest to the present. Students will learn to recognize boleros, sones, huapangos, mariachi, norteños, corridos, "Tex-Mex," and "oldies." The class is not designed for music majors.
CHS 295 Special Topics in Chicana/Chicano Studies (3).
A study of an issue, concept, or theme in Chicana/Chicano studies. Repeatable for a maximum of six units for credit.
Upper Division
CHS 300 Introduction to Chicana/Chicano Studies (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 100 is recommended.
An introduction to the historical, political, psychological, and social aspects of the Chicano experience. Includes an analysis of the various forces and circumstances that make up the second largest minority in the United States. This course meets the intent of Assembly Bill 1117 of September 4, 1969.
CHS 315 Changing Dynamics in Raza Communities (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 200 is recommended.
Assesses the challenges confronting the Chicano community resulting from increased and diverse patterns of immigration, restricted occupational opportunities, and socio-political differences. Focus will be on urban issues from communities throughout the United States, including the Mexican/United States Border.
CHS 323 U.S. Immigration Citizenship: A Latino Perspective (3).
The course seeks to understand some of the issues that concern Mexican/Latino immigrant people, specifically Mexican and Central American groups, in efforts to bring awareness to this human crisis and to explore some of its effects on U.S. Latino community.
CHS 325 Chicana/o Movement (3).
A historical and comparative examination of the Chicana/o movement by examining the early pattern of Mexican immigration and the formation of mutual aids associations designed to defend their interests. The focus is on the period from 1960-1990.
CHS 330 Mexican and Latino Identities in the United States (3).
The course broadens the social, cultural, and political scope of Chicano and Latino communities in the United States which include Puerto Rican, Cuban, Caribbean, and Central and South American peoples. The historical experiences of these diverse communities will be examined.
CHS 335 Urban Youth Gangs in Los Angeles (3).
The course provides an interdisciplinary perspective to the origins and evolution of youth groups (Chicana/os, African American, Pacific Islanders, Anglos, and Asians) in California. Class topics include the definitions of gangs; history of gangs; membership practices; and law enforcement responses.
CHS 340 Native American and Chicana Women’s Prose (3).
The course explores contemporary cultural and historical narratives by and about Native American and Chicana women in the U.S. through poetry, short stories, and narratives. The class will analyze the histories of colonial exploitation, historical memories, gender oppression, and marginalization.
CHS 345 Latina/o Identity in the Americas (3).
The course explores the concept of Latina/o identity in Americas from a literary perspective in different time periods and particular cultural societies. The study of certain intellectuals and their literary contributions will assist with comprehension of identity and socio-political reality.
CHS 396 Practicum in Chicana/o Studies (3).
Supervised work experience in a Chicano/Latino community with emphasis upon social and economic development in a local, national, or international setting. Students will be placed in settings suitable to their academic expertise.
CHS 400 Chicana/o Issues in Education and Society (3).
An overview of the educational system in society - how it functions, whom it serves, and the cultural and theoretical explanations for the success and failure of Chicana/o students. Discussions include family values, teen pregnancy, language, gangs, etc.
CHS 410 Chicana/o Popular Culture (3).
An overview of the central areas of Chicana/o popular culture, focusing on film, mass media, art, theatre, and music. The course examines how concepts of culture, identity, and ethnicity are popularly expressed in a constant state of flux.
CHS 450 Precolombian Literature of Mexico (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 300 recommended.
The study of the literature of ancient Mexico , specifically the Popol Vuh of the Maya and Aztec poetry, in order to obtain an insight into the Precolombian world view. Periodic essay exams.
CHS 460 Las Chicanas (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 100 recommended.
The study of the issues that Chicanas encounter in contemporary U.S. society. Includes a survey of remote and recent cultural, social, and political issues that have influenced the values, expectations, and roles of Chicanas.
CHS 470 The Mexican Revolution in Art and Literature (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 300 recommended.
The study of the impact of the Mexican Revolution on the art and literature of 20th Century Mexico as well as its influence on contemporary Chicano art. Topics to be covered are philosophy, muralism, the corrido, folk speech, legends, and the novel of the Mexican Revolution.
CHS 471 Mexican Thought, Social Activism, and Political Ideology (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 100 recommended.
The course examines the evolution of Mexico’s modernistic state via its reformation and dictatorship of President Porfirio Diaz. It will investigate how revolutionary leaders banded together to dismantle the “Porfirio” regime, and how later Mexico’s Government attempted to institutionalize the ideals of justice, freedom, and democracy.
CHS 480 Chicano Folklore (3).
Prerequisite: CHS 300 recommended.
An introduction to some of the basic theories and techniques in folklore studies, especially Mexican American. Folk art, music, oral literature, customs, philosophy, and belief systems will be examined for understanding groups of people.
CHS 485 Intellectual Traditions in the Americas (3).
Recommended Prerequisite: CHS 300.
The course offers some of the philosophical, intellectual, and social concepts of the Americas. Themes crucial for the study of Chicano and Latino cultures have been considered to understand the political, social, and economic reality of the Americas.
CHS 486 Chicana/o Family and Gender Issues (3).
The course examines family and gender issues as they relate to the Chicana/o communities in the United States. Topics will include Chicana/o family roles and structure, cultural values, experiences that influence and challenge families, gender roles and expectations.
CHS 490 Theories and Methods in Chicana/o Studies (3).
Prerequisites: Senior standing and consent of instructor or Program Director.
This course focuses on examining various theories and methods utilized by Chicana/o scholars during the evolution of Chicana/o Studies for the purpose of preparing students for advanced graduate studies and/or professional careers. Students will examine the applied use of theories including Marxism, Neomarxism, Postmodernism, Poststructuralism, Postcolonialism, Critical Race Theory and theories of Gender, Indigenism and Sexuality in the writings of Chicana/o Studies.
CHS 494 Independent Study (1-3).
Prerequisite: Consent of Program Director.
Independent study of a particular topic in Chicana/Chicano Studies relating two or more disciplines, such as anthropology, art, education, history, language, music, politics, psychology, or sociology under the direction of an instructor in Chicana/Chicano Studies. Repeatable course.
CHS 495 Special Topics in Chicana/Chicano Studies (1-3).
Prerequisite: Consent of Program Director.
An intensive study of an issue, concept or theme in Chicana/Chicano Studies. Three hours of lecture per week. Repeatable for a maximum of six units for credit.
CHS 496 Internship in Chicana/o Studies (3).
Under direction of the internship faculty, students will work in a Chicano/Latino community, applying skills and knowledge learned in the classroom as well as the workplace. Repeatable course.
CHS 497 Research Methods in the Chicano Community (1-3).
Prerequisite: CHS 100 is recommended.
Supervised research experience in the Chicano community, including public and private agencies in education, social welfare, industry and the arts. Reviews basic techniques in research design with emphasis on measurement and social science techniques. Repeatable course.
CHS 498 Directed Research in Chicana/o Studies (3).
The student develops and completes an individual study under faculty supervision. Repeatable course.
Graduate
Graduate standing or consent of the department chair is prerequisite to enrollment in graduate (500 level) courses.
CHS 590 Graduate Seminar in Theory and Methods (3).
Prerequisite: Consent of Department Chair.
This course is an introduction to theorists and methods under girding Chicana and Chicano Studies as these have been deployed in the writings by Chicana and Chicano authors during the past thirty years. The class will present theories and methods that inform intellectual issues in Chicana/o studies.
CHS 594 Independent Study (1-4).
Prerequisites: Consent of Department Chair.
Independent investigation of a research problem or directed readings in a selected area of Chicano Studies.
CHS 595 Special Topics (3).
An intensive study of a concept, movement, school of thought, or individual within the discipline of Chicano Studies. Intended for students with senior or graduate standing. Specific topic listed in Class Schedule. Repeatable course. Three hours of seminar per week.
CHS 596 Practicum in Teaching Chicana/o Studies (3).
Supervised experience in teaching Chicana/o Studies. Techniques and skills appropriate to instruction at the college level. Instructional and evaluative experiences under supervision of Chicana/o Studies faculty.
CHS 597 Directed Reading (3).
Extensive reading in selected areas under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
CHS 598 Graduate Directed Research (3).
Independent research under direction of supervising faculty member in Chicana/o Studies.
CHS 599 Final Project/ Thesis (3).
In consultation with a faculty member, writing of a master's thesis or completion of project. Choice of area requires prior consent of advisor.