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The Bachelor of Arts in Multicultural and Gender Studies

Total Course Requirements for the Bachelor's Degree: 120 units

See Bachelor's Degree Requirements 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.

A suggested Major Academic Plan (MAP) has been prepared to help students meet all graduation requirements within four years. You can view MAPs on the Degree MAPs page in the University Catalog or you can request a plan from your major advisor.

General Education Pathway Requirements: 48 units

See General Education in the University Catalog and the Class Schedule for the most current information on General Education Pathway Requirements and course offerings.

Diversity Course Requirements: 6 units

See Diversity Requirements in the University Catalog. Most courses taken to satisfy these requirements may also apply to General Education .

Literacy Requirement:

See Mathematics and Writing Requirements in the University Catalog. Writing proficiency in the major is a graduation requirement and may be demonstrated through satisfactory completion of a course in your major which has been designated as the Writing Proficiency (WP) course for the semester in which you take the course. Students who earn below a C- are required to repeat the course and earn a C- or higher to receive WP credit. See the Class Schedule for the designated WP courses for each semester. You must pass ENGL 130I or JOUR 130I (or equivalent) with a C- or higher before you may register for a WP course.

Course Requirements for the Major: 39 units

Completion of the following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, is required of all candidates for this degree.

Up to 6 units from other majors, minors, or General Education may be counted toward the MCGS major or minor.

Major Core Requirements: 18 units

2 courses required:

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
MCGS 155 Introduction to Multicultural and Gender Studies   3.0 FS  GE  USD
An introduction to the concepts, terminology, and issues in multicultural and gender studies, including exploration of America's multicultural history, gender as an element of culture, and contemporary issues in the field. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (002602)
WMST 170 Introduction to Women's Studies   3.0 FS  GE  USD
This course explores the impact of cultural beliefs and practices on diverse women's lives. Readings, films, and lectures analyze women's challenges, struggles, and accomplishments. Specific topics include race and class, media images of women, the women's movement, work, motherhood, and sexuality. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (009621)

2 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
MCGS 326Z Perspectives on Gender and Disease - Capstone   3.0 FS  GE  WI  C
This course is also offered as NURS 326Z.
This course explores the physiological mechanisms of disease and resistance, social definitions of disease, and gender-related factors in research, diagnosis, treatment, and adaptation to disease. Diseases are usually studied and described in generic terms without regard to gender; however, it is apparent that substantial differences exist in male and female susceptibility, manifestations, and responses to many diseases; just as significantly, society's responses to disease are clearly influenced by gender issues. These issues are explored, through the perspectives of both natural and social sciences. 3 hours lecture.This is an approved Writing Intensive course. This is an approved General Education Capstone course. (021361)
MCGS 330 Sociology of Gender   3.0 INQ  
This course is also offered as SOCI 330.
This course examines gender as a social construct and its influences on men and women in families, school, work, politics, and culture. The focus is on how gender varies in relation to ethnicity, race, sexuality, and social class. 3 hours lecture. (005639)
MCGS 380 Gender, Race, Sexuality, Science, and Society   3.0 FS  
An exploration of how science and culture have affected people's understandings of gender and sexuality, in both Western and non-Western cultures, from ancient times to the present. 3 hours lecture. (005642)
WMST 335 Women and Gender in American History   3.0 INQ  
This course is also offered as HIST 335.
Focus on the role gender plays in shaping and defining American history, from colonial times to the present. Analysis of relations between sexes, the family, and the struggle by women to achieve civil rights and social reform. The roles of race and class, and the rise of feminism. 3 hours lecture. (004541)

2 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
CMST 234 Gender and Communication   3.0 FS  GE
Using both cognitive and experiential models, this course explores the relationships between gender and communication. Discussions focus on such topics as self-perceptions and images of men and women, language used by and about men and women, self-disclosure and self-assertion as communicative acts, gender differences in information processing and non-verbal communication, private and public contexts for gender communication, and gender communication in organizations. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (021189)
CMST 235 Intercultural Communication Theories and Practice   3.0 FS  GE  USD
Focus is on the problems of communication between cultural groupings inside and outside of the U.S. Various historical and political contexts in which intercultural communication occurs are examined. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (021193)
MCGS 224 Religion and America's Ethnic Minorities   3.0 FA  GE  USD
This course is also offered as RELS 224.
This course covers the religions that inform America's ethnic minorities, and the historical, cultural, and social experiences and values of Native American, Hispanic-American, Arab-American, African-American, and Asian-American minority groups. 3 hours seminar. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (021198)
MCGS 327 The Politics of Race and Ethnicity in the United States   3.0 FS  USD
This course is also offered as POLS 327.
Analysis of the role of race and ethnicity in the American political process, including a critique of their role in local, state, and national elections. Factors accounting for participation and non-participation will be analyzed. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved US Diversity course. (000137)
MCGS 328 Multicultural Health   3.0 FS  USD
This course is also offered as HCSV 328.
Ethnic groups in the U.S. face many health problems. This course focuses on those problems which affect the four largest ethnic groups in the U.S.: African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, and Asian Americans. The effects of history, health beliefs and practices, and socioeconomic status on the health of these ethnic populations are addressed. Current and potential strategies to improve health care delivery to these groups are explored. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved US Diversity course. (004448)
MCGS 341 Cross-Cultural Psychology   3.0 FS  GC
This course is also offered as PSYC 341.
This course focuses on the importance and various influences of culture on human behavior. Beginning with an examination of theoretical definitions of culture, the course covers a broad range of research that highlights the contributions of cross-cultural psychology to the understanding of human behavior within and between cultures. In addition, conceptual, methodological, and practical issues in cross-cultural research and applications are covered. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (005638)
MCGS 350 Ethnic and Race Relations   3.0 FS  GE  USD
This course is also offered as SOCI 350.
This course examines the social construction of race, and studies ethnic and racial relations in the United States, looking at variations by class, gender, and immigration experiences. Students analyze interpersonal relationships between racial and ethnic groups, discrimination, resistance, social movements, and governmental policies 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (005640)

Major Option Course Requirements: 21 units

The following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, are required dependent upon the option chosen. Students must select one of the following options for completion of the major course requirements.  Use the links below to jump to your chosen option.

General Option: 21 units

3 courses required:

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
MCGS 451B Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties   3.0 FS  
This course is also offered as POLS 451B.
Analysis of judicial cases and related materials illustrating historical and current interpretations of constitutional problems such as racial discrimination, criminal procedures, and freedom of speech and religion. 3 hours lecture. (005645)
MCGS 489 Internship in MCGS   1.0 -3.0 FS  
A supervised experience in the area of multicultural and/or gender studies offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with the Center director and be a major or minor. No more than 3 units may be counted toward the major or minor. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (005647)

Note: MCGS 489 must be taken for 3 units. This is a letter graded internship.

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
MCGS 495 Senior Seminar in Multicultural and Gender Studies   3.0 SP  GW
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher.
Exploration of theory and extended research in the field of multicultural and gender studies leading to a public presentation. This course is designed as the capstone experience for multicultural and gender studies majors in the general option, and minors. 3 hours seminar. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. (002610)

1 course selected from:

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
AAST 152 Introduction to the Asian American Experience   3.0 SP  GE  USD
This course is also offered as SOCI 152.
This course examines the Asian experience in the U.S. over the last 150 year by focusing on the experiences of different Asian ethnic groups. The focus is on early arrival and settlement, and contemporary issues in Asian American communities, including immigration, racism, and Asian American identity. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (000003)
AFAM 170 Introduction to African American Studies   3.0 FS  GE  USD
Introduces the aims and objectives of African American Studies. A critical examination of the African American experience and its antecedents. This includes an assessment of how the dominant society impacts African Americans, including such factors as racism, poverty, and the current social/economic status of African Americans. Africa's contributions to the world are included. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (000136)
AIST 170 Introduction to American Indian Studies   3.0 FS  GE  USD
Introduction to socio-cultural development of the American Indian in modern times and the background for present-day conditions. Attention given to contemporary Indian affairs and problems. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (000375)
CHST 157 Introduction to Chicano Studies   3.0 FA  GE  USD
This course is also offered as SOCI 157.
This course explores contemporary issues affecting Chicanos in the United States, including cultural values, social organization, urbanization, gender, and socio-economics. Attention is given to how family, religion, and immigration experiences play upon the lifestyles and values held by Chicanas and Chicanos. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (001973)

9 units selected from:

With the approval of the major advisor, select courses from African American Studies, American Indian Studies, Asian American Studies, and Chicano Studies which will not be used to meet other requirements in the major.

Women's Studies Option: 21 units

4 courses required:

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
MCGS 489 Internship in MCGS   1.0 -3.0 FS  
A supervised experience in the area of multicultural and/or gender studies offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with the Center director and be a major or minor. No more than 3 units may be counted toward the major or minor. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (005647)

Note: MCGS 489 must be taken for 3 units. This is a letter graded internship.

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
WMST 200 Feminist Theory   3.0 FA  
Prerequisites: WMST 170.
An examination of key feminist theories and their applications in feminist research and practice. Readings include historical and contemporary materials. 3 hours lecture. (009638)
WMST 430 Current Issues and Theories in Women's Studies   3.0 FS  
Prerequisites: WMST 170 or WMST 200.
This course provides in-depth and advanced study of key feminist and gender theorists' analyses of pivotal issues in the intersections of race, class, and gender constructions, with a different focal topic chosen each semester. 3 hours lecture. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (009640)
WMST 490 Research Seminar in Women's Studies   3.0 SP  GW
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher, WMST 170, WMST 200.
Reading and application of feminist theory to an extended research project which is publicly presented. Readings explore a variety of feminist theories, methodologies, and epistemologies related to topics students choose to research. This course is designed as a capstone experience for majors in the Women's Studies Option. 3 hours seminar. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. (009636)

3 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
ENGL 261 Women Writers   3.0 FS  GE
An exploration of the thematic and stylistic elements of literature by women with an emphasis on the ways women's lives have been shaped by societal expectations with regard to gender roles, sexuality identify and expression, socio-economic status, and ethnic and/or religious identities. Readings may include life writing, short story, novel, drama, poetry, essays, and criticism by women from different cultures and periods. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (021172)
MCGS 310Z Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Issues and Identities - Capstone   3.0 FS  GE  USD  WI
 C
Prerequisites: MCGS 155 or WMST 170 recommended.
An exploration of current scholarship in gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer theories, issues, and communities. Grounded in feminist scholarship, the course examines GLBTQ identity construction and formation through media, politics, sex/sexuality, science, and the law. Specific focus will vary from semester to semester. 3 hours lecture.This is an approved Writing Intensive course. This is an approved General Education Capstone course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (021360)
WMST 211 Women, Men, and the Media   3.0 FS  GE
This course is also offered as JOUR 211.
The purpose of this course is to educate students to be informed consumers of media, to examine actual portrayals of women in the various media, and to explore how the media industry treats women. These objectives will result in a raised awareness of how both sexes can participate equally in the world around them. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (021252)
WMST 230 Women in Contemporary Societies   3.0 FA  GE
This course is also offered as SOCI 230.
Taking an in-depth look, this course explores women's lives in today's world across categories of class, race, ethnicity, sexuality, disability, and age. Students also discuss such topics as gender, body politics, violence against women, poverty, religion, and power as they relate to women. Special attention is given to social activism and emerging policies here in the U.S. and elsewhere. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (008968)
WMST 233 Women Internationally   3.0 FS  GE  GC
This is an interdisciplinary course which concentrates on the universal experiences of women around the world. The impact of international and domestic politics and culture on women, the role of women in economic development, equity issues, and women's role in the social movement are the centrality of the course. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (021197)
WMST 275I Women and Religion   3.0 FS  GE  GC  WI
This course is also offered as RELS 275I.
Analysis of the images, roles, and experiences of women in world religions in historical and contemporary contexts. 3 hours discussion.This is an approved Writing Intensive course. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course. (021201)
WMST 324I Women and Politics   3.0 FA  GE  WI
This course is also offered as POLS 324I.
Analysis of the roles of women in politics; volunteer, candidate, elected official. Considers politics of the women's movement and women's issues. 3 hours lecture.This is an approved Writing Intensive course. This is an approved General Education course. (007491)
WMST 326 Gender and Sexuality in Modern European History   3.0 FA  GE
This course is also offered as HIST 326.
This course explores major themes and developments in the social and cultural history of European women from the 1700s to the present, including changing gender roles, attitudes toward sexuality, reproduction, and the family. In particular, the course examines women's struggle to define themselves and their roles in society and their impact on the social identities of men. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (004531)
WMST 339 Cultural Images of Women   3.0 INQ  GC
This cross-cultural study of women emphasizes changing constructions of gender and gender relations from the Paleolithic period to the rise of the state. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Global Cultures course. Formerly ANTH 339. (000517)
WMST 368 Women's Health   3.0 FS  GE
This course is also offered as HCSV 368.
This course represents an overview of health care issues faced by women throughout the life cycle. The course begins an examination of scientific inquiry and the study of disease in women. Then, using sociological, political, and behavioral sciences, the roles, rights, and responsibilities of women in the health care system are assessed. The course concludes with a biological review of the female body and specific health care problems common to women. This course encompasses a woman-centered philosophy which encourages women's active participation in their health care decisions. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (004381)
WMST 426 Women and the Law   3.0 INQ  
This course is also offered as POLS 426.
In this class, students discuss how the criminal justice system and civil law affect women's lives and their experiences with the state. Students take a historical view on how women have made progress toward equality in the United States by using the legal system in a variety of ways and examine women's status as criminal justice professionals, victims, and perpetrators of crime and how the criminal justice system deals with women in these positions. 3 hours lecture. (007547)
WMST 475 Feminist Theology   3.0 INQ  
Prerequisites: RELS 375 or WMST 375.
A study of the development of feminist theology in Christian, Jewish, and other religious traditions over the past 30 years. Examines feminist theological analysis of religious symbols, texts, rituals, beliefs, and practices in the U.S. and international contexts. 3 hours seminar. Formerly RELS 475. (008199)

Electives Requirement:

To complete the total units required for the bachelor's degree, select additional elective courses from the total University offerings. You should consult with an advisor regarding the selection of courses which will provide breadth to your University experience and possibly apply to a supportive second major or minor.

Grading Requirement:

All courses taken to fulfill major course requirements must be taken for a letter grade except those courses specified by the department as Credit/No Credit grading only.

Advising Requirement:

Advising is mandatory for all majors in this degree program. Consult your undergraduate advisor for specific information.

Honors in the Major:

Honors in the Major is a program of independent work in your major. It requires 6 units of honors course work completed over two semesters.

The Honors in the Major program allows you to work closely with a faculty mentor in your area of interest on an original performance or research project. This year-long collaboration allows you to work in your field at a professional level and culminates in a public presentation of your work. Students sometimes take their projects beyond the University for submission in professional journals, presentation at conferences, or academic competition. Such experience is valuable for graduate school and professional life. Your honors work will be recognized at your graduation, on your permanent transcripts, and on your diploma. It is often accompanied by letters of commendation from your mentor in the department or the department chair.

Some common features of Honors in the Major program are:

  1. You must take 6 units of Honors in the Major course work. All 6 units are honors classes (marked by a suffix of H), and at least 3 of these units are independent study (399H, 499H, 599H) as specified by your department. You must complete each class with a minimum grade of B.
  2. You must have completed 9 units of upper-division course work or 21 overall units in your major before you can be admitted to Honors in the Major. Check the requirements for your major carefully, as there may be specific courses that must be included in these units.
  3. Your cumulative GPA should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
  4. Your GPA in your major should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
  5. Most students apply for or are invited to participate in Honors in the Major during the second semester of their junior year. Then they complete the 6 units of course work over the two semesters of their senior year.
  6. Your honors work culminates with a public presentation of your honors project.

While Honors in the Major is part of the Honors Program, each department administers its own program. Please contact your major department or major advisor to apply.

Catalog Cycle:14