The study of diversity fosters understanding of cultural traditions, histories, and influences; sharpens critical and analytic thinking; explores sources of inequality in society; and encourages a vibrant intellectual community free of bias and prejudice.
Academic Programs
American Indian Studies – Develops theories, methodologies, and curriculum that increase knowledge about Indigenous peoples and support the needs of Indigenous communities
American Ethnic Studies — Engages both ethnic-specific and and comparative concepts, theories, and methods of inquiry in three curricular areas, African American Studies, Asian/Pacific American Studies, and Chicano Studies
Disability Studies — Provides opportunities through a minor and individualized major to develop a strong interdisciplinary foundation in the social, legal and political framing of disability
Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies — Provides a framework for understanding how questions of sexuality, race, disability, class, gender, age, and nationality affect the ways people live their lives and the environment and society at large
Diversity Minor — Designed to strengthen students’ understanding of how race, class, gender, disability, ethnicity, nationality, sexuality, religion, and age interact to define identities and social relations
Law, Societies and Justice Program — Provides an interdisciplinary liberal arts education focusing on the unique forms of social control, institutionalized disputing, and justice associated with law or legality
Intergroup Dialogue, Education, and Action (IDEA) Center – Supports University and community efforts that address issues of oppression, empowerment, and alliance building for social justice.