Department of Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexualilty Studies
The Department of Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexuality Studies offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Mexican American Studies, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Women's Studies, as well as minors in African American Studies and Women's Studies. The B.A. in Mexican American Studies prepares students to enter graduate school or pursue a career as an educator, researcher, community leader, or community advocate.The Department also offers courses that may be used to fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements or that may be taken as support courses for programs within the University or as electives.
Department Honors
The Department of Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexuality Studies awards Department Honors to certain outstanding students and provides the opportunity for advanced study under close faculty supervision. Selection for honors designation is based on the student’s academic performance and recommendation by the faculty of the student’s major discipline.
To be eligible for the program in the Mexican American Studies major, students must have a minimum overall grade point average of 3.0 at UTSA and a minimum grade point average of 3.5 in their major at UTSA. The minimum grade point averages must be maintained for students to receive the approval of the Department Honors Committee and the discipline faculty. Students applying for Department Honors are expected to enroll in the appropriate honors thesis course during their final two semesters. The completed thesis must be approved by the supervising faculty sponsor and another departmental faculty member. Students interested in this program should contact their professors for additional information.
Students whose grade point average in Women's Studies major coursework before the start of their final year at UTSA is 3.25 or above, and whose overall grade point average is 3.00, may earn Honors in Women's Studies. Students must complete 6 semester credit hours of WGSS 4993 Honors Thesis, complete a substantial research paper approved by the Women's Studies Program Scholarship and Honors Committee, and maintain a 3.25 grade point average in the major. The grade point average requirements apply to all transfer work as well as all courses taken at UTSA. Students are advised to consult with the Undergraduate Advisor of Record for the Women's Studies Program regarding requirements and appropriate deadlines.
Criminal History Policy and Acknowledgement
The College of Education and Human Development (COEHD) prepares educators and professionals for fields which require fieldwork, internship, practicum, service-learning and/or clinical teaching. Placements occur in educational, clinical, health care facilities, hospital, and/or medical settings which require a criminal background check. The University of Texas at San Antonio is required to inform students of the requirements set forth by the Texas Occupation Code, Chapter 53, Sections 53.001 through 53.105.
All COEHD prospective students in a licensure or certification program are required to acknowledge that they have been made aware of these requirements and that they have read the COEHD Criminal History Policy. For more information and for completing the acknowledgement form, please visit the Office of Professional Preparation, Assessment, and Accreditation in the College of Education and Human Development.
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mexican American Studies
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Mexican American Studies is an interdisciplinary program integrating Mexican American studies with a specific liberal arts discipline. Majors are required to complete 39 semester credit hours from a prescribed program of study that must include 18 semester credit hours from one of nine concentrations: Anthropology; Communities, Families, and Children; History; Interdisciplinary Studies; Literary and Cultural Studies; Nonprofit Management; Political Science; Sociology; or Spanish.
The minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree, including the Core Curriculum requirements, is 120. Thirty-nine of the 120 hours must be upper-division. A maximum of 66 community college semester credit hours may be applied to this program. All candidates for this degree must fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements and the degree requirements, which are listed below.
Mexican American Studies majors are encouraged to select a double major in the 39-semester-hour content of their concentration (i.e., Anthropology, Bicultural Bilingual Studies, Business Administration, English, History, Interdisciplinary Studies, Political Science, Sociology, Spanish).
Core Curriculum Requirements (42 semester credit hours)
Students seeking the B.A. degree in Mexican American Studies must fulfill University Core Curriculum requirements in the same manner as other students. The courses listed below satisfy both degree requirements and Core Curriculum requirements; however, if these courses are taken to satisfy both requirements, then students may need to take additional courses in order to meet the minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree.
ANT 2033 is recommended to satisfy a core requirement in Life and Physical Sciences. ENG 2213, ENG 2383, or ENG 2423 is recommended to satisfy a core requirement in Language, Philosophy and Culture. MAS 2023 is recommended to satisfy the core requirement in Creative Arts. BBL 2003, BBL 2243, or SOC 2013 is recommended to satisfy the core requirement in Social and Behavioral Sciences. ANT 2053 or ANT 2063 is recommended to satisfy the core requirement under the Component Area Option.
For a complete listing of courses that satisfy the Core Curriculum requirements, see Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements.
Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements
First Year Experience Requirement (3 semester credit hours)
All students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AIS 1203 | Academic Inquiry and Scholarship | 3 |
| AIS 1213 | AIS: Architecture, Construction, and Planning | 3 |
| AIS 1223 | AIS: Arts and Humanities | 3 |
| AIS 1233 | AIS: Business | 3 |
| AIS 1243 | AIS: Engineering, Mathematics, and Sciences | 3 |
| AIS 1253 | AIS: Interdisciplinary Education | 3 |
| AIS 1263 | AIS: Life and Health Sciences | 3 |
| AIS 1273 | AIS: Social Sciences and Public Policy | 3 |
Communication (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| WRC 1013 | Freshman Composition I | 3 |
| WRC 1023 | Freshman Composition II | 3 |
Mathematics (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CS 1173 | Data Analysis and Visualization | 3 |
| MAT 1023 | College Algebra with Applications | 3 |
| MAT 1043 | Introduction to Mathematics | 3 |
| MAT 1053 | Mathematics for Business | 3 |
| MAT 1073 | Algebra for Scientists and Engineers | 3 |
| MAT 1093 | Precalculus | 3 |
| MAT 1133 | Calculus for Business | 3 |
| MAT 1193 | Calculus for the Biosciences | 3 |
| MAT 1214 | Calculus I | 4 |
| STA 1053 | Basic Statistics | 3 |
Life and Physical Sciences (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete two of the following courses for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ANT 2033 | Introduction to Biological Anthropology | 3 |
| AST 1013 | Introduction to Astronomy | 3 |
| AST 1033 | Exploration of the Solar System | 3 |
| BIO 1233 | Contemporary Biology I | 3 |
| BIO 1243 | Contemporary Biology II | 3 |
| BIO 1404 | Biosciences I | 4 |
| BIO 1414 | Biosciences II | 4 |
| CHE 1083 | Introduction to the Molecular Structure of Matter | 3 |
| CHE 1093 | Introduction to Molecular Transformations | 3 |
| ES 1113 | Environmental Botany | 3 |
| ES 1123 | Environmental Zoology | 3 |
| ES 1213 | Environmental Geology | 3 |
| ES 2013 | Introduction to Environmental Science I | 3 |
| ES 2023 | Introduction to Environmental Science II | 3 |
| GEO 1013 | The Third Planet | 3 |
| GEO 1123 | Life Through Time | 3 |
| GES 2613 | Physical Geography | 3 |
| PHY 1943 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 3 |
| PHY 1963 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 3 |
Language, Philosophy and Culture (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AAS 2013 | Introduction to African American Studies | 3 |
| AAS 2113 | African American Culture, Leadership and Social Issues | 3 |
| ANT 2063 | Language, Thought, and Culture | 3 |
| ARC 1113 | Introduction to the Built Environment | 3 |
| CHN 1014 | Elementary Chinese I | 4 |
| CLA 2013 | Introduction to Ancient Greece | 3 |
| CLA 2023 | Introduction to Ancient Rome | 3 |
| CLA 2323 | Classical Mythology | 3 |
| CSH 1103 | Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture I | 3 |
| CSH 1113 | Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture II | 3 |
| CSH 1213 | Topics in World Cultures | 3 |
| CSH 2113 | The Foreign Film | 3 |
| ENG 2013 | Introduction to Literature | 3 |
| ENG 2023 | Literature and Film | 3 |
| ENG 2213 | Literary Criticism and Analysis | 3 |
| ENG 2383 | Multiethnic Literatures of the United States | 3 |
| ENG 2423 | Literature of Texas and the Southwest | 3 |
| ENG 2443 | Persuasion and Rhetoric | 3 |
| FRN 1014 | Elementary French I | 4 |
| FRN 2333 | French Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| GER 1014 | Elementary German I | 4 |
| GER 2333 | German Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| GES 1023 | World Regional Geography | 3 |
| GLA 1013 | U.S. in the Global Arena | 3 |
| GRK 1114 | Introductory Classical Greek I | 4 |
| HIS 2123 | Introduction to World Civilization to the Fifteenth Century | 3 |
| HIS 2133 | Introduction to World Civilization since the Fifteenth Century | 3 |
| HIS 2533 | Introduction to Latin American Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2543 | Introduction to Islamic Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2553 | Introduction to East Asian Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2573 | Introduction to African Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2583 | Introduction to South Asian Civilization | 3 |
| HUM 2093 | World Religions | 3 |
| ITL 1014 | Elementary Italian I | 4 |
| ITL 2333 | Italian Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| JPN 1014 | Elementary Japanese I | 4 |
| LAT 1114 | Introductory Latin I | 4 |
| MAS 2013 | Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies | 3 |
| PHI 1043 | Critical Thinking | 3 |
| PHI 2013 | Basic Philosophical Problems | 3 |
| PHI 2023 | Introduction to Ancient Philosophy | 3 |
| PHI 2033 | Introduction to Early Modern Philosophy | 3 |
| PHI 2123 | Contemporary Moral Issues | 3 |
| RUS 1014 | Elementary Russian I | 4 |
| RUS 2333 | Russian Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| SPN 1014 | Elementary Spanish I | 4 |
| SPN 2333 | Hispanic Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| WGSS 2013 | Introduction to Women’s Studies | 3 |
| WGSS 2023 | Introduction to LGBTQ Studies | 3 |
Creative Arts (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AHC 1113 | Survey of Art and Architecture from Prehistoric Times to 1350 | 3 |
| AHC 1123 | Survey of Art and Architecture in Europe and the New World from 1350 to 1750 | 3 |
| AHC 1133 | Survey of Modern Art | 3 |
| ARC 1513 | Great Buildings and Cities of the World | 3 |
| ARC 2413 | History of Architecture I | 3 |
| ART 1103 | Introduction to Visual Arts | 3 |
| BBL 2023 | Latino Cultural Expressions | 3 |
| CLA 2033 | Introduction to Classical Literature | 3 |
| DAN 2003 | Introduction to Dance | 3 |
| HUM 2023 | Introduction to the Humanities I | 3 |
| HUM 2033 | Introduction to the Humanities II | 3 |
| HUM 2053 | History of Film | 3 |
| MAS 2023 | Latino Cultural Expressions | 3 |
| MUS 2243 | World Music in Society | 3 |
| MUS 2633 | American Roots Music | 3 |
| MUS 2653 | Music in Culture | 3 |
| MUS 2663 | History and Styles of Jazz | 3 |
| MUS 2673 | History and Styles of Rock | 3 |
| MUS 2683 | History and Styles of Western Art Music | 3 |
| MUS 2713 | History of Recorded Music | 3 |
| MUS 2743 | Music and Film | 3 |
| PHI 2073 | Philosophy of Art | 3 |
American History (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| HIS 1043 | United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era | 3 |
| HIS 1053 | United States History: Civil War Era to Present | 3 |
| HIS 2053 | Texas History | 3 |
Government-Political Science (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| POL 1013 | Introduction to American Politics | 3 |
| and one of the following two courses: | ||
| POL 1133 | Texas Politics and Society | 3 |
| POL 1213 | Civil Rights in Texas and America | 3 |
Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AMS 2043 | Approaches to American Culture | 3 |
| ANT 1013 | Introduction to Anthropology | 3 |
| ANT 2043 | Introduction to Archaeology | 3 |
| ANT 2053 | Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| BBL 2003 | Language, Culture, and Society | 3 |
| BBL 2243 | Bilingual Families, Communities, and Schools: National and Transnational Experiences | 3 |
| BIO 1033 | Drugs and Society | 3 |
| CRJ 1113 | The American Criminal Justice System | 3 |
| ECO 2003 | Economic Principles and Issues | 3 |
| ECO 2023 | Introductory Microeconomics | 3 |
| EGR 1343 | The Impact of Modern Technologies on Society | 3 |
| GES 1013 | Fundamentals of Geography | 3 |
| GES 2623 | Human Geography | 3 |
| HTH 2413 | Introduction to Community and Public Health | 3 |
| HTH 2513 | Personal Health | 3 |
| IDS 2113 | Society and Social Issues | 3 |
| PSY 1013 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| SOC 1013 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 |
| SOC 2013 | Social Problems | 3 |
| SOC 2023 | Social Context of Drug Use | 3 |
Component Area Option (CAO) (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete either one of the following courses or any additional Core Curriculum course not previously used to satisfy a core component area requirement, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| COM 2113 | Public Speaking | 3 |
| EGR 1403 | Technical Communication | 3 |
| ENG 2413 | Technical Writing | 3 |
| PAD 1113 | Public Administration and Policy in American Society | 3 |
| PHI 2043 | Introductory Logic | 3 |
Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements
| First Year Experience Requirement | 3 | |
| Communication | 6 | |
| Mathematics | 3 | |
| Life and Physical Sciences | 6 | |
| Language, Philosophy and Culture | 3 | |
| Creative Arts | 3 | |
| American History | 6 | |
| Government-Political Science | 6 | |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences | 3 | |
| Component Area Option | 3 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 42 | |
Degree Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| A. Mexican American Studies | ||
| 1. Required courses: | ||
| BBL 2003 | Language, Culture, and Society | 3 |
| or BBL 3133 | Language Development in Bilinguals | |
| ENG 3513 | Mexican American Literature | 3 |
| or ENG 4613 | Topics in Mexican American Literature | |
| MAS 2013 | Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies | 3 |
| MAS 2023 | Latino Cultural Expressions | 3 |
| MAS 2043 | Selena: A Mexican American Identity and Experience | 3 |
| MAS 3033 | Mexican Americans in the Southwest | 3 |
| MAS 4083 | Research Seminar in Mexican American Studies | 3 |
| REGS 2003 | Teaching to Power: Critical and Liberating Pedagogies | 3 |
| 2. Select one course from the following: | 3 | |
| Mexican American Culture (required for anthropology concentration) | ||
| African American Literature (may substitute for MAS 4953 when course not offered) | ||
| Chicana/o/x Music | ||
| Chicana/o Queer Communities, Identities and Theories | ||
| Social Psychological Considerations in Mexican American Communities | ||
| Historical Legacies: Chicanas/os in Education | ||
| Mexican American Family | ||
| Sí se puede! Latino Leadership, Activism and Organizing | ||
| Special Studies in Mexican American Studies (Anthropology concentration students may substitute this course for BBL 3023 when topic is on Mexican Americans and cultural anthropology.) | ||
| Mexican American Politics (required for political science concentration) | ||
| Latin American Literature to Modernism (if not taken for the concentration) | ||
| Latin American Literature since Modernism (if not taken for the concentration) | ||
| Feminist Theories | ||
| B. Areas of concentration | ||
| Select one of the following areas of concentration. Students are encouraged to select their area of concentration as early in their program as possible. | 18 | |
| Concentration in Anthropology | ||
1. Select three of the following: | ||
| Introduction to Biological Anthropology | ||
| Introduction to Archaeology | ||
| Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | ||
| Language, Thought, and Culture | ||
2. Required upper-division courses: | ||
| Arts of Ancient Mesoamerica | ||
| Chicana/o/x Music | ||
Select one of the following: | ||
| Archaeology of the American Southwest | ||
| Feminist Theories 1 | ||
| Concentration in Communities, Families, and Children | ||
| Foundations of Bilingual Studies | ||
| Children’s Literature for Bilingual Learners | ||
| Child Growth and Development | ||
| Second Language Teaching and Learning in EC–6 | ||
| Chicana/o Queer Communities, Identities and Theories | ||
| Mexican American Family | ||
| Concentration in History | ||
1. Required courses: | ||
| Chicana/o/x Music | ||
| The Spanish and Mexican Borderlands | ||
| History of Mexico | ||
| Seminar in History | ||
2. Select two of the following: | ||
| History of the American West | ||
| Mexican American History since 1900 | ||
| United States-Mexico Border | ||
| Concentration in Interdisciplinary Studies | ||
| Children’s Literature for Bilingual Learners | ||
| Introduction to Learning and Teaching in a Culturally Diverse Society | ||
| Diversity, Equity, and the Social Sciences | ||
| Culture, Literature, and Fine Arts | ||
| Historical Legacies: Chicanas/os in Education | ||
| Mexican American Family | ||
| Concentration in Literary and Cultural Studies | ||
1. Methods. Note: This requirement must be completed before continuing with any other concentration requirements. | ||
| Literary Criticism and Analysis 1 | ||
2. Select one of the following: | ||
| Multiethnic Literatures of the United States 1 | ||
| Literature of Texas and the Southwest 1 | ||
3. Select one of the following: | ||
| Feminist Theory of Literature | ||
| Special Topics | ||
4. Select one of the following: | ||
| Mexican American Literature (if not taken for the major requirement) | ||
| Topics in Multiethnic Literatures of the United States 1 | ||
| Topics in Mexican American Literature (if not taken for the major requirement) | ||
5. Select one of the following: | ||
| Mexican American Culture (if not taken for the major requirement) | ||
| African American Literature | ||
| American Film 1 | ||
6. Select one of the following: | ||
| Special Studies in English 1 | ||
| Seminar for English Majors 1 | ||
| Concentration in Nonprofit Management | ||
1. Required courses: | ||
| Internship in Mexican American Studies | ||
| Fundraising in Nonprofit Agencies | ||
| Introduction to Nonprofit Agencies | ||
| Public and Nonprofit Financial Management | ||
2. Select two courses from the following: | ||
| Organizational Communication | ||
| Managing Nonprofit Organizations | ||
| Strategic Planning in the Public and Nonprofit Sectors | ||
| Special Topics in Public Administration | ||
| Concentration in Political Science | ||
1. Required courses: | ||
| Texas Politics and Society (may be used to fulfill a core requirement in Government-Political Science) | ||
| Quantitative Methods in Political Science | ||
| Mexican American Politics | ||
2. Select one of the following: | ||
| Introduction to Political Theory | ||
| Introduction to Political Science | ||
| Law and Society | ||
| Comparative Politics | ||
3. Three upper-division political science courses selected from three of the categories below: | ||
American Politics | ||
| Women in Politics | ||
| African American Political Thought | ||
| Race and American Politics | ||
| Urban Development: Politics Planning, and Power | ||
Comparative or International Politics | ||
Comparative Politics | ||
| Latin American Politics | ||
| Politics of Mexico | ||
| Politics of the Developing World | ||
| The Welfare State in Comparative Perspective | ||
International Politics | ||
| Theories of International Justice | ||
| Globalization | ||
Political Theory | ||
| Political Philosophy: Contemporary | ||
Public Administration or Public Law | ||
Public Administration | ||
| Urban Development: Politics Planning, and Power | ||
Public Law | ||
| The American Legal Process | ||
| Justice and Social Policy | ||
| Concentration in Sociology | ||
1. Required courses: | ||
| Introduction to Sociology | ||
| Race and Ethnic Relations | ||
| Sociological Theory | ||
| Qualitative Research Methods | ||
or SOC 3393 | Quantitative Research Methods | |
2. Select two courses from the following: | ||
| Social Stratification | ||
| Religion and Society | ||
| Latinas in U.S. Society | ||
| Poverty | ||
| Concentration in Spanish | ||
1. Required courses: | ||
| Spanish Phonetics and Phonology | ||
or SPN 3113 | Linguistic Structures of Spanish | |
| Introduction to Literature | ||
| Grammar and Composition | ||
| Latin American Literature to Modernism | ||
or SPN 3473 | Latin American Literature since Modernism | |
| Latin American Culture and Civilization | ||
2. Select one of the following: | ||
| Spanish for Bilingual Instructional Delivery | ||
| Topics in Mexican American Literature (when content includes Spanish literature and if not taken for the major requirement) | ||
| The Spanish of the United States | ||
| C. Electives | ||
| Select 39 semester credit hours of electives | 39 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 84 | |
| 1 | Denotes course substitution accepted when taught by a Mexican American Studies affiliate or focus is on Chicano/Latino content. |
B.A. in Mexican American Studies – Recommended Four-Year Academic Plan
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credit Hours | |
| AIS 1203 | Academic Inquiry and Scholarship (core) | 3 |
| ANT 2033 | Introduction to Biological Anthropology (core) | 3 |
| BBL 2003 | Language, Culture, and Society (core and major) | 3 |
| WRC 1013 | Freshman Composition I (core) | 3 |
| Mathematics core | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| MAS 2023 | Latino Cultural Expressions (core and major) | 3 |
| POL 1013 | Introduction to American Politics (core ) | 3 |
| WRC 1023 | Freshman Composition II (core ) | 3 |
| American History core | 3 | |
| Life & Physical Sciences core | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| ANT 2053 or ANT 2063 |
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (core and major) or Language, Thought, and Culture |
3 |
| ECO 2003 | Economic Principles and Issues (core ) | 3 |
| MAS 2013 | Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies (core) | 3 |
| POL 1133 or POL 1213 |
Texas Politics and Society (core) or Civil Rights in Texas and America |
3 |
| Concentration courses (see Section B) | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| MAS 3033 | Mexican Americans in the Southwest | 3 |
| ENG 2213 |
Literary Criticism and Analysis (core) or Multiethnic Literatures of the United States or Literature of Texas and the Southwest |
3 |
| Concentration courses (see Section B) | 3 | |
| Concentration courses (see Section B) | 3 | |
| Elective in MAS (MAS 3043 or MAS 3413) | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| REGS 2003 | Teaching to Power: Critical and Liberating Pedagogies | 3 |
| Concentration courses (see Section B) | 6 | |
| Elective in MAS | 3 | |
| Upper-division electives (see Section C) | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| Concentration courses (see Section B) | 6 | |
| Upper-division electives (see Section C) | 9 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Electives (enough upper-division hours to meet required 39, see Section C) | 12 | |
| Credit Hours | 12 | |
| Spring | ||
| MAS 4083 | Research Seminar in Mexican American Studies 1 | 3 |
| American History core | 3 | |
| Electives (enough upper-division hours to meet required 39; see Section C) | 12 | |
| Credit Hours | 18 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 120 | |
| 1 | It is recommended that MAS and concentration courses be completed before taking MAS 4083, as this is the capstone course for the major. |
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Women's Studies
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Women’s Studies provides students with the opportunity to examine the social, historical, political, and cultural experiences of women and men from an interdisciplinary perspective. Emphasis on cross-disciplinary research methods enables students to pursue a theoretically-informed understanding of women and issues of gender and sexuality in diverse U.S. and global cultures and across time.
The minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree, including the Core Curriculum requirements, is 120. Thirty-nine of the total semester credit hours required for the degree must be at the upper-division level.
All candidates seeking this degree must fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements and the degree requirements, which are listed below.
Core Curriculum Requirements (42 semester credit hours)
Students seeking the B.A. degree in Women’s Studies must fulfill University Core Curriculum requirements in the same manner as other students. If courses are taken to satisfy both degree and Core Curriculum requirements, then students may need to take additional courses in order to meet the minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree.
For a complete listing of courses that satisfy the Core Curriculum requirements, see Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements.
Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements
First Year Experience Requirement (3 semester credit hours)
All students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AIS 1203 | Academic Inquiry and Scholarship | 3 |
| AIS 1213 | AIS: Architecture, Construction, and Planning | 3 |
| AIS 1223 | AIS: Arts and Humanities | 3 |
| AIS 1233 | AIS: Business | 3 |
| AIS 1243 | AIS: Engineering, Mathematics, and Sciences | 3 |
| AIS 1253 | AIS: Interdisciplinary Education | 3 |
| AIS 1263 | AIS: Life and Health Sciences | 3 |
| AIS 1273 | AIS: Social Sciences and Public Policy | 3 |
Communication (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| WRC 1013 | Freshman Composition I | 3 |
| WRC 1023 | Freshman Composition II | 3 |
Mathematics (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CS 1173 | Data Analysis and Visualization | 3 |
| MAT 1023 | College Algebra with Applications | 3 |
| MAT 1043 | Introduction to Mathematics | 3 |
| MAT 1053 | Mathematics for Business | 3 |
| MAT 1073 | Algebra for Scientists and Engineers | 3 |
| MAT 1093 | Precalculus | 3 |
| MAT 1133 | Calculus for Business | 3 |
| MAT 1193 | Calculus for the Biosciences | 3 |
| MAT 1214 | Calculus I | 4 |
| STA 1053 | Basic Statistics | 3 |
Life and Physical Sciences (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete two of the following courses for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ANT 2033 | Introduction to Biological Anthropology | 3 |
| AST 1013 | Introduction to Astronomy | 3 |
| AST 1033 | Exploration of the Solar System | 3 |
| BIO 1233 | Contemporary Biology I | 3 |
| BIO 1243 | Contemporary Biology II | 3 |
| BIO 1404 | Biosciences I | 4 |
| BIO 1414 | Biosciences II | 4 |
| CHE 1083 | Introduction to the Molecular Structure of Matter | 3 |
| CHE 1093 | Introduction to Molecular Transformations | 3 |
| ES 1113 | Environmental Botany | 3 |
| ES 1123 | Environmental Zoology | 3 |
| ES 1213 | Environmental Geology | 3 |
| ES 2013 | Introduction to Environmental Science I | 3 |
| ES 2023 | Introduction to Environmental Science II | 3 |
| GEO 1013 | The Third Planet | 3 |
| GEO 1123 | Life Through Time | 3 |
| GES 2613 | Physical Geography | 3 |
| PHY 1943 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 3 |
| PHY 1963 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 3 |
Language, Philosophy and Culture (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AAS 2013 | Introduction to African American Studies | 3 |
| AAS 2113 | African American Culture, Leadership and Social Issues | 3 |
| ANT 2063 | Language, Thought, and Culture | 3 |
| ARC 1113 | Introduction to the Built Environment | 3 |
| CHN 1014 | Elementary Chinese I | 4 |
| CLA 2013 | Introduction to Ancient Greece | 3 |
| CLA 2023 | Introduction to Ancient Rome | 3 |
| CLA 2323 | Classical Mythology | 3 |
| CSH 1103 | Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture I | 3 |
| CSH 1113 | Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture II | 3 |
| CSH 1213 | Topics in World Cultures | 3 |
| CSH 2113 | The Foreign Film | 3 |
| ENG 2013 | Introduction to Literature | 3 |
| ENG 2023 | Literature and Film | 3 |
| ENG 2213 | Literary Criticism and Analysis | 3 |
| ENG 2383 | Multiethnic Literatures of the United States | 3 |
| ENG 2423 | Literature of Texas and the Southwest | 3 |
| ENG 2443 | Persuasion and Rhetoric | 3 |
| FRN 1014 | Elementary French I | 4 |
| FRN 2333 | French Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| GER 1014 | Elementary German I | 4 |
| GER 2333 | German Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| GES 1023 | World Regional Geography | 3 |
| GLA 1013 | U.S. in the Global Arena | 3 |
| GRK 1114 | Introductory Classical Greek I | 4 |
| HIS 2123 | Introduction to World Civilization to the Fifteenth Century | 3 |
| HIS 2133 | Introduction to World Civilization since the Fifteenth Century | 3 |
| HIS 2533 | Introduction to Latin American Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2543 | Introduction to Islamic Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2553 | Introduction to East Asian Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2573 | Introduction to African Civilization | 3 |
| HIS 2583 | Introduction to South Asian Civilization | 3 |
| HUM 2093 | World Religions | 3 |
| ITL 1014 | Elementary Italian I | 4 |
| ITL 2333 | Italian Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| JPN 1014 | Elementary Japanese I | 4 |
| LAT 1114 | Introductory Latin I | 4 |
| MAS 2013 | Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies | 3 |
| PHI 1043 | Critical Thinking | 3 |
| PHI 2013 | Basic Philosophical Problems | 3 |
| PHI 2023 | Introduction to Ancient Philosophy | 3 |
| PHI 2033 | Introduction to Early Modern Philosophy | 3 |
| PHI 2123 | Contemporary Moral Issues | 3 |
| RUS 1014 | Elementary Russian I | 4 |
| RUS 2333 | Russian Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| SPN 1014 | Elementary Spanish I | 4 |
| SPN 2333 | Hispanic Literature in English Translation | 3 |
| WGSS 2013 | Introduction to Women’s Studies | 3 |
| WGSS 2023 | Introduction to LGBTQ Studies | 3 |
Creative Arts (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AHC 1113 | Survey of Art and Architecture from Prehistoric Times to 1350 | 3 |
| AHC 1123 | Survey of Art and Architecture in Europe and the New World from 1350 to 1750 | 3 |
| AHC 1133 | Survey of Modern Art | 3 |
| ARC 1513 | Great Buildings and Cities of the World | 3 |
| ARC 2413 | History of Architecture I | 3 |
| ART 1103 | Introduction to Visual Arts | 3 |
| BBL 2023 | Latino Cultural Expressions | 3 |
| CLA 2033 | Introduction to Classical Literature | 3 |
| DAN 2003 | Introduction to Dance | 3 |
| HUM 2023 | Introduction to the Humanities I | 3 |
| HUM 2033 | Introduction to the Humanities II | 3 |
| HUM 2053 | History of Film | 3 |
| MAS 2023 | Latino Cultural Expressions | 3 |
| MUS 2243 | World Music in Society | 3 |
| MUS 2633 | American Roots Music | 3 |
| MUS 2653 | Music in Culture | 3 |
| MUS 2663 | History and Styles of Jazz | 3 |
| MUS 2673 | History and Styles of Rock | 3 |
| MUS 2683 | History and Styles of Western Art Music | 3 |
| MUS 2713 | History of Recorded Music | 3 |
| MUS 2743 | Music and Film | 3 |
| PHI 2073 | Philosophy of Art | 3 |
American History (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| HIS 1043 | United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era | 3 |
| HIS 1053 | United States History: Civil War Era to Present | 3 |
| HIS 2053 | Texas History | 3 |
Government-Political Science (6 semester credit hours)
Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| POL 1013 | Introduction to American Politics | 3 |
| and one of the following two courses: | ||
| POL 1133 | Texas Politics and Society | 3 |
| POL 1213 | Civil Rights in Texas and America | 3 |
Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AMS 2043 | Approaches to American Culture | 3 |
| ANT 1013 | Introduction to Anthropology | 3 |
| ANT 2043 | Introduction to Archaeology | 3 |
| ANT 2053 | Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| BBL 2003 | Language, Culture, and Society | 3 |
| BBL 2243 | Bilingual Families, Communities, and Schools: National and Transnational Experiences | 3 |
| BIO 1033 | Drugs and Society | 3 |
| CRJ 1113 | The American Criminal Justice System | 3 |
| ECO 2003 | Economic Principles and Issues | 3 |
| ECO 2023 | Introductory Microeconomics | 3 |
| EGR 1343 | The Impact of Modern Technologies on Society | 3 |
| GES 1013 | Fundamentals of Geography | 3 |
| GES 2623 | Human Geography | 3 |
| HTH 2413 | Introduction to Community and Public Health | 3 |
| HTH 2513 | Personal Health | 3 |
| IDS 2113 | Society and Social Issues | 3 |
| PSY 1013 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| SOC 1013 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 |
| SOC 2013 | Social Problems | 3 |
| SOC 2023 | Social Context of Drug Use | 3 |
Component Area Option (CAO) (3 semester credit hours)
Students must complete either one of the following courses or any additional Core Curriculum course not previously used to satisfy a core component area requirement, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| COM 2113 | Public Speaking | 3 |
| EGR 1403 | Technical Communication | 3 |
| ENG 2413 | Technical Writing | 3 |
| PAD 1113 | Public Administration and Policy in American Society | 3 |
| PHI 2043 | Introductory Logic | 3 |
Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements
| First Year Experience Requirement | 3 | |
| Communication | 6 | |
| Mathematics | 3 | |
| Life and Physical Sciences | 6 | |
| Language, Philosophy and Culture | 3 | |
| Creative Arts | 3 | |
| American History | 6 | |
| Government-Political Science | 6 | |
| Social and Behavioral Sciences | 3 | |
| Component Area Option | 3 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 42 | |
Degree Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| A. Major courses | ||
| 1. Required courses | ||
| WGSS 2013 | Introduction to Women’s Studies | 3 |
| WGSS 3613 | Feminist Research Methodologies | 3 |
| WGSS 4623 | Feminist Theories | 3 |
| WGSS 4933 | Internship in Women’s Studies | 3 |
| WGSS 4973 | Seminar in Women’s Studies | 3 |
| 2. Select 1 course from the Globalization and Borderlands group below | 3 | |
| 3. Select 1 course from the Culture and Society group below | 3 | |
| B. Groups | ||
| Select eight courses from at least two of the following groups: | 24 | |
| Theory and Methods | ||
| Feminist Theory of Literature | ||
| Teaching to Power: Critical and Liberating Pedagogies | ||
| Special Topics | ||
| Special Topics in Women's Studies | ||
| Globalization and Borderlands | ||
| Latino Cultural Expressions | ||
| Gender and Cities: An Introduction to Feminist Geography | ||
| Feminism and Globalization | ||
| Culture and Society | ||
| Studies in Gender and Sexuality | ||
| Sex, Gender, and Culture | ||
| Social Psychological Considerations in Mexican American Communities | ||
| Mexican American Culture | ||
| Biology of Human Reproduction | ||
| Gender and Crime | ||
| Women and Literature | ||
| History of Women in the United States: Pre-Columbus to 1890 | ||
| History of Women in the United States: Since 1890 | ||
| Women and Gender in India | ||
| Survey of Human Sexuality | ||
| Society and Social Issues | ||
| Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies | ||
| Women in Politics | ||
| Psychological Perspectives on Gender | ||
| Relationships | ||
| Families in Society | ||
| Latinas in U.S. Society | ||
| Poverty | ||
| Sociology of Gender | ||
| Sociology of the Mexican American Community | ||
| Introduction to LGBTQ Studies | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Honors Thesis | ||
| C. Electives | ||
| Select 33 semester credit hours of free electives, some of which may need be upper-division, depending on the student’s course selections in Section B. Students are advised to consult with their Major Advisor to verify that they will meet the 39 upper-division hours required for the B.A. degree in Women's Studies. | 33 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 78 | |
B.A. in Women’s Studies – Recommended Four-Year Academic Plan
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credit Hours | |
| AIS 1203 | Academic Inquiry and Scholarship (core) | 3 |
| HIS 1043 |
United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era (core) or United States History: Civil War Era to Present or Texas History |
3 |
| POL 1013 | Introduction to American Politics (core) | 3 |
| WRC 1013 | Freshman Composition I (core) | 3 |
| Mathematics core | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| HIS 1043 |
United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era (core) or United States History: Civil War Era to Present or Texas History |
3 |
| POL 1133 or POL 1213 |
Texas Politics and Society (core) or Civil Rights in Texas and America |
3 |
| WRC 1023 | Freshman Composition II (core) | 3 |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Life & Physical Sciences core | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| WGSS 2013 | Introduction to Women’s Studies | 3 |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Language, Philosophy & Culture core | 3 | |
| Life & Physical Sciences core | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| Culture and Society group | 3 | |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Globalization and Borderlands group | 3 | |
| Social & Behavioral Sciences core | 3 | |
| Component Area Option core | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| WGSS 3613 | Feminist Research Methodologies | 3 |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Creative Arts core | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| WGSS 4623 | Feminist Theories | 3 |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Upper-division free elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| WGSS 4973 | Seminar in Women’s Studies | 3 |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| WGSS 4933 | Internship in Women’s Studies | 3 |
| Free elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Subject Group elective | 3 | |
| Upper-division free elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 120 | |
Minor in African American Studies
The Minor in African American Studies provides an interdisciplinary approach to the political, cultural, historical, and social experiences of African Americans in the United States, and people of African descent globally. Literature and research methods drawn from several disciplines enable students to enhance their understanding of African Americans’ unique social circumstances, contributions, and heritage. The mission of the African American Studies program at UTSA is to promote academic and professional excellence. We achieve this goal by enhancing cultural competency skills, enriching the theoretical knowledge base and practical skills set of students related to working with diverse populations, and advancing critical thinking skills related to multiple facets of the African American experience and the African Diaspora.
All students pursuing a Minor in African American Studies must complete 18 semester credit hours, at least 12 hours of which must be at the upper-division level.
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| A. Required courses: | ||
| AAS 2013 | Introduction to African American Studies | 3 |
| AAS 2113 | African American Culture, Leadership and Social Issues | 3 |
| REGS 2003 | Teaching to Power: Critical and Liberating Pedagogies | 3 |
| B. Two African American Studies courses selected from the following: | 6 | |
| African American Cultural Experiences | ||
| African American Studies Research Seminar | ||
| Civil Rights Movement and African American Education | ||
| African Americans in Higher Education | ||
| Topics in African American Studies | ||
| C. One course selected from the following: | 3 | |
| Studies in Race and Ethnicity | ||
| Multiculturalism in the Southwest | ||
| Cultural and Linguistic Equity for Schooling | ||
| Social Foundations for Education in a Diverse U.S. Society | ||
| Multiethnic Literatures of the United States | ||
| African American Literature | ||
| North American Indian Histories | ||
| African American History to the Civil War | ||
| African American History since the Civil War | ||
| History of the Civil Rights Movement | ||
| History and Styles of Jazz | ||
| Minorities and the Law | ||
| Civil Rights in Texas and America (when the topic is Civil Rights) | ||
| African American Political Thought | ||
| Race and American Politics | ||
Other course substitutions require pre-approval of the advisor and program director. | ||
| Students may take the following courses under section C with approval of program director: | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Internship in African American Studies | ||
| Total Credit Hours | 18 | |
To declare a Minor in African American Studies, obtain advice, or seek approval of substitutions for course requirements, students should consult their academic advisor.
Minor in Women’s Studies
All students pursuing a Minor in Women’s Studies (WS) are required to complete 18 semester credit hours (6 of which must be upper division, 3000-4000 level).
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| A. Required Courses | ||
| WGSS 2013 | Introduction to Women’s Studies | 3 |
| WGSS 4623 | Feminist Theories | 3 |
| B. Additional coursework | ||
| Select four of the following, in at least two disciplines other than the student’s major: | 12 | |
| Studies in Gender and Sexuality | ||
| Sex, Gender, and Culture | ||
| Latino Cultural Expressions | ||
| Social Psychological Considerations in Mexican American Communities | ||
| Mexican American Culture | ||
| Biology of Human Reproduction | ||
| Cultural Issues in Mediterranean Antiquity | ||
| Race, Ethnicity, and Criminal Justice | ||
| Gender and Crime | ||
| Women and Literature | ||
| Feminist Theory of Literature | ||
| History of Women in the United States: Pre-Columbus to 1890 | ||
| History of Women in the United States: Since 1890 | ||
| Women and Gender in India | ||
| Understanding Human Sexuality | ||
| Society and Social Issues | ||
| Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies | ||
| Women in Politics | ||
| Psychological Perspectives on Gender | ||
| Relationships | ||
| Families in Society | ||
| Poverty | ||
| Sociology of Gender | ||
| Sociology of the Mexican American Community | ||
| Introduction to LGBTQ Studies | ||
| Feminist Research Methodologies | ||
| Special Topics | ||
| Feminism and Globalization | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Internship in Women’s Studies | ||
| Special Topics in Women's Studies | ||
| Total Credit Hours | 18 | |
Note: Please consult the Department of Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexuality Studies for a complete list of courses that fulfill the Women's Studies minor.
To declare a Minor in Women’s Studies, obtain advice, obtain lists of relevant courses, or seek approval of substitutions for course requirements, students should consult their academic advisor.
African American Studies (AAS) Courses
AAS 2013. Introduction to African American Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Offers an interdisciplinary introduction to major topics in African American Studies. Course materials will address basic contours of the black experience in the United States. Topics that may be investigated include historical, autobiographical, political, cultural, sociological, literary, and/or popular responses to and representation of African Americans in the United States. May be applied toward the Core Curriculum requirement in Language, Philosophy and Culture. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRC1 $12; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 2113. African American Culture, Leadership and Social Issues. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course examines topics related to twentieth-century African American culture, leadership, and social experiences. The focus of this course includes emphasis on civic engagement, leadership, and/or cultural expression (i.e., music, performance arts, film, visual arts) that informs collective identities, social movements, and/or relevant social issues. May be applied toward the Core Curriculum requirement in Language, Philosophy and Culture. Course Fees: LRC1 $12; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 3013. African American Cultural Experiences. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course examines cultural expressions (e.g., art, music, film, literature, cultural identity) in the African American experience. The substantive and disciplinary emphasis can vary from one semester to another. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 3113. African American Studies Research Seminar. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course is designed to introduce students to basic research methods and methodological issues in African American Studies. The course covers methods of social science research, research conceptualization, and research design. Students will become familiar with various methods of data collection, data analysis, and theoretical concepts that pertain to developing critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 3123. Civil Rights Movement and African American Education. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course provides an introduction to the period of struggle in American history known as the Civil Rights Movement. The objective is to survey the major historical figures, organizations, locations, strategies and ideas that coalesce to make the history of the movement. The course will analyze the historical trajectory of educational policies with particular emphasis on the Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954 and its implications over the following 20 years. Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 3133. African Americans in Higher Education. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course explores the history of African Americans in higher education. The course examines especially significant post-secondary issues and topics in the twentieth century, such as access, equity, diversity, student organizations, institutional leadership, and current events. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 4013. Topics in African American Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course analyzes historical and contemporary issues and phenomena associated with African Americans. It explores different methodological approaches by inquiring about these issues and phenomena, and presents varying arguments and ideological positions concerning these public-affairs matters. May be repeated for credit when topics vary. Two or more topics courses may be taken concurrently. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 4911. Independent Study. (0-0) 1 Credit Hour.
Prerequisites: Permission in writing (form available) from the instructor, the student’s advisor, the program director, and Dean of the College in which the course is offered.
Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit, but not more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. A maximum of 3 semester credit hours may be applied to the minor. Course Fee: STSH $10.
AAS 4912. Independent Study. (0-0) 2 Credit Hours.
Prerequisites: Permission in writing (form available) from the instructor, the student’s advisor, the program director, and Dean of the College in which the course is offered.
Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit, but not more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. A maximum of 3 semester credit hours may be applied to the minor. Course Fee: STSH $20.
AAS 4913. Independent Study. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisites: Permission in writing (form available) from the instructor, the student’s advisor, the program director, and Dean of the College in which the course is offered.
Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit, but not more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. A maximum of 3 semester credit hours may be applied to the minor. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
AAS 4933. Internship in African American Studies. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisite: Consent of internship coordinator.
Supervised experience relevant to African American studies within selected community organizations. A maximum of 3 semester credit hours may be applied to the minor. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
Mexican American Studies (MAS) Courses
MAS 2013. Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours. (TCCN = HUMA 1305)
An introduction to the field of Chicano(a) studies from its inception to the present. Chicano(a) studies and scholarship are explored through multidisciplinary concepts, theory, and methodologies, providing differing interpretations of the Chicano and Chicana experience in the United States. May be applied toward the Core Curriculum requirement in Language, Philosophy and Culture. (Formerly BBL 2013. Credit cannot be earned for both MAS 2013 and BBL 2013.) Generally offered: Spring. Course Fees: LRC1 $12; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 2023. Latino Cultural Expressions. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours. (TCCN = HUMA 1311)
An introductory overview of Hispanic visual, performing, and folk arts from their origins in the Iberian peninsula, through the later blending of cultures and their parallelism during revolutionary periods, to contemporary Latino expressions in the United States. May be applied toward the Core Curriculum requirement in Creative Arts. (Same as BBL 2023. Credit cannot be earned for both MAS 2023 and BBL 2023.) Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRC1 $12; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 2033. Multiculturalism in the Southwest. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
A panoramic study of the concept of culture and the social dynamics of exchange among those ethnic groups that determine the multicultural milieu of the Southwest. Examination of cultural differences and similarities among all peoples of the region and the role of multiculturalism in politics, education, economics, religion, and everyday life. (Same as BBL 2033. Credit cannot be earned for both MAS 2033 and BBL 2033.) Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 2043. Selena: A Mexican American Identity and Experience. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course examines how the life and career of Selena Quintanilla-la Reina de Tejano music-embodies the historical trajectory of the Mexican American identity and experience in Texas. As exemplified by a line from the biopic about her life, "We gotta prove to the Mexicans how Mexican we are, and we gotta prove to the Americans how American we are. We gotta be more Mexican than the Mexicans and more American than the Americans, both at the same time." Selena's rise to fame will be contextualized by addressing how systemic oppression and intersectionality impact the Mexican American experience. In particular, the course will emphasize how race/ethnicity, gender, class, sexuality, and citizenship function as axes of marginalization, as well as how sociohistorical, economic, and political factors converge to shape a Mexican American group identity in Texas, the Southwest and the United States. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 3003. Chicana/o/x Music. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Designed to examine Mexican American experience at the borders where the cultural form of music becomes a way of expressing cultural contact, tension, conflict as well as accommodation and resistance. Music becomes a site of excavating issues of inheritance as well as understanding the dynamics of creative expression. Course reflects historical and social contexts to engage the cultural production of the genres and themes of music found in Mexican American communities. (Formerly titled Musical Mestizaje.) Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 3013. Chicana/o Queer Communities, Identities and Theories. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Through an intersectional lens that addresses gender and sexuality in conjunction with race and class, this course examines concepts of identity, community, and belonging for and by Mexican American lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer communities. Topics may include language, migration, history, health, family and kinship. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 3033. Mexican Americans in the Southwest. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Historical foundations of the United States–Mexico biculturalism in the Southwest. An examination of the historical forces that created and shaped the Mexican American people as a bicultural community. Attention is given to Mexican American contributions in arts, economics, literature, and politics. (Same as BBL 3033. Credit cannot be earned for both MAS 3033 and BBL 3033.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 3043. Social Psychological Considerations in Mexican American Communities. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
A cross-cultural and social psychological study of human development, interethnic communication, stereotyping, learning styles, or other topics relevant to the bicultural setting. (Same as BBL 3043. Credit cannot be earned for both MAS 3043 and BBL 3043.) Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 3063. Historical Legacies: Chicanas/os in Education. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course presents key texts that are central to the study of Chicanas/os in education. This course critically examines the historical legacies and contemporary experiences of Chicana/o children and youth in U.S. educational institutions. The course will present various theoretical perspectives that problematize the pervasive history of educational inequality and patterns of academic attainment and achievement throughout the educational pipeline. Special attention will be given to the pervasive history of segregation, tracking, language oppression, and assimilationist ideologies and practices, as well as the current struggles for educational justice in Chicana/o schools and communities. (Formerly MAS 3023. Same as BBL 3063. Credit can be earned for only one of the following: BBL 3063, MAS 3023, or MAS 3063.) Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 3123. Mexican American Culture. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
A survey of Mexican American cultural distinctiveness in the areas of biculturalism, cultural production, and social organization. Topics may include family and kinship, folklore, health, language, music, and religion. (Same as BBL 3123. Credit cannot be earned for both BBL 3123 and MAS 3123.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 3413. Mexican American Family. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course offers an examination of the social status of Mexican Americans and their relationship to the dominant society. Issues may include the position of Mexican Americans in economic, political, and status hierarchies and the major factors limiting mobility within these systems. (Formerly BBL 3413. Same as SOC 3413. Credit cannot be earned for more than one of the following: BBL 3413, MAS 3413, or SOC 3413.) Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 4013. Sí se puede! Latino Leadership, Activism and Organizing. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisite: MAS 2013.
This course will examine theories of social justice, social change, leadership styles, and basic components required to organizing at the local level for creating meaningful social change. By studying the history and legacy of activism among Mexican American and other Latina/o/x communities, it provides students with the basic tools to become more effective leaders at the grassroots level. Course may include community engagement component as part of the coursework. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 4083. Research Seminar in Mexican American Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Provides students the opportunity to compare, contrast, and integrate social science theory and methods, and guides students in the conduct of sociocultural research in the Mexican American community. Emphasis will be given to qualitative and ethnographic methods and theory. (Formerly BBL 4083. Credit cannot be earned for both MAS 4083 and BBL 4083.) Generally offered: Spring. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 4931. Internship in Mexican American Studies. (0-0) 1 Credit Hour.
A supervised experience, relevant to the student’s program of study within selected community organizations and agencies. Must be taken on a credit/no-credit basis. Course Fee: STSH $10.
MAS 4932. Internship in Mexican American Studies. (0-0) 2 Credit Hours.
A supervised experience, relevant to the student’s program of study within selected community organizations and agencies. Must be taken on a credit/no-credit basis. Course Fee: STSH $20.
MAS 4933. Internship in Mexican American Studies. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.
A supervised experience, relevant to the student’s program of study within selected community organizations and agencies. Must be taken on a credit/no-credit basis. Course Fee: STSH $30.
MAS 4953. Special Studies in Mexican American Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
An organized course offering the opportunity for specialized study not normally or not often available as part of the regular course offerings. Special Studies may be repeated for credit when the topics vary, but not more than 6 semester credit hours, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. To apply credit earned in MAS 4953 toward a minor, consent of the academic advisor is required.
Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
MAS 4993. Honors Thesis. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisites: Enrollment limited to candidates for Honors in Mexican American Studies during their last two semesters; completion of honors examination and consent of the Honors College.
Supervised research and preparation of an honors thesis. May be repeated once with thesis advisor’s approval. Course Fee: STSH $30.
Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (REGS) Courses
REGS 2003. Teaching to Power: Critical and Liberating Pedagogies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course will introduce students to concepts and race-based and gender-based theories that frame critical and liberatory pedagogies. Historical, social, political, philosophical, cultural, and economic forces that shape United States public school system will be explored. Students in the course will engage in an intensive study around systemic injustices as they relate to hegemonic logics of schooling, such as coloniality, heteronormativity, white supremacy, and anti-blackness. This course also seeks to recover community-rooted ways of knowing that facilitate culturally sustaining pedagogies, liberatory identities and critical consciousness. Topics addressing economic, political, and status hierarchies as well as how struggles for equality have varied across race, ethnicity , religion, sexual identity, and class within these systems vary from semester to semester. The course includes a capstone project in which students plan a program of study appropriate to the academic fields of African American Studies, Mexican American Studies and Women's and Gender Studies. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) Courses
WGSS 2013. Introduction to Women’s Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course introduces students to core concepts and frameworks in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies, using interdisciplinary and cross-cultural approaches. Women and gender are studied as socially constructed categories created through institutions such as culture, the law, the media, and globalization. The course will provide students with the tools of critical feminist inquiry to assess how women’s lived experiences are shaped by such categories as race, ethnicity, class, nationality, sexuality, and disability. Students will examine theories and analytical concepts that emerge from specific historical periods and social movements. May be applied toward the Core Curriculum requirement in Language, Philosophy and Culture. (Formerly WGS 2013 and WS 2013. Credit can only be earned for one course: WS 2013, WGS 2013, or WGSS 2013.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Course Fees: LRC1 $12; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 2023. Introduction to LGBTQ Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This interdisciplinary course introduces concepts and theories within LGBTQ Studies. Topics include issues related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities. The central focus is to examine, challenge, and destabilize normative conceptualizations and representations of gender and sexuality. This class emphasizes different aspects of LGBTQ studies including history, queer theory, popular culture, media, and literature. Course work centers on complicating notions of queer identity through intersections of race, class, gender, and globalization. May not be repeated for credit. May be applied toward the Core Curriculum requirement in Language, Philosophy and Culture. (Formerly WS 2023. Credit cannot be earned for both WGSS 2023 and WS 2023.) Course Fees: LRC1 $12; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 3613. Feminist Research Methodologies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Rigorous examination of the theory, application, and ethical and epistemological concerns of feminist research. What does it mean to "research as a feminist"? Are there particular ways of producing knowledge as women? Investigating women’s issues within and across a range of traditional disciplines—history, arts, humanities, sciences, education, health, economics, law, etc.—the course will engage issues of researcher-subject relationships, representation, and value-driven research, to respond to dominant theories of knowledge production. (Same as WS 3613. Credit cannot be earned for both WGSS 3613 and WS 3613.) Generally offered: Spring. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 3953. Special Topics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course examines women’s texts with special attention to understanding gender as a category of analysis. Variable topics may include women in the sciences, women and technology, literary and cultural representations, women and business, historical and political change, questions of class and nation, queer or transgender theories, or medical and health experiences. This class may emphasize the importance of intersecting categories of analysis including gender, race, ethnicity, and sexuality. May be repeated for credit when topics vary. (Formerly WGS 4853, WS 3953, and WS 4853.) Generally offered: Spring. Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 4623. Feminist Theories. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course will introduce multidisciplinary explorations of theorists’ attempts to describe, explain, and critique social institutions. Students will examine theoretical positions on gender and women in the study of the humanities and/or social sciences. Topics may include the ways in which women have been represented in cultural production with special consideration of race, ethnicity, class, sexuality, and nationalism. May be repeated for credit only once when topics vary, but no more than 6 semester credit hours of WS 4623, regardless of cross-listed courses and disciplines, will apply to a bachelor's degree. (Formerly WGS 4623 and WS 4623. Credit can only be earned for one course: WS 4623, WGS 4623, or WGSS 4623.) Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 4863. Feminism and Globalization. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Theoretical, historical, and empirical analysis of how current processes of globalization are transforming the actual conditions of women’s lives, labor, gender ideologies, and politics in complex and contradictory ways. Topics include feminist exploration of colonialism, capitalism, economic restructuring policies, and resistance in consumer and environmental movements. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. (Formerly WS 4863. Credit cannot be earned for both WGSS 4863 and WS 4863.) Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 4913. Independent Study. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisites: Permission in writing (form available) from the instructor, the student’s advisor, the Department Chair, and Dean of the College with which the instructor is affiliated.
Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. A maximum of 3 semester credit hours of Independent Study in Women’s Studies may be applied to the Minor in Women’s Studies. May be repeated for credit, but no more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor's degree. (Formerly WGS 4913 and WS 4913. Credit can only be earned for one course: WGSS 4913, WS 4913, or WGSS 4913.) Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 4933. Internship in Women’s Studies. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Supervised experience relevant to Women’s Studies. May be repeated once for credit, but no more than 3 semester credit hours will apply to the Women’s Studies major. (Formerly WGS 4933 and WS 4933.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fees: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 4953. Special Topics in Women's Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course offers an examination of an individual topic or set of issues in Women’s Studies. May be repeated for credit when topics vary. (Formerly WS 3713 and WS 4953.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 4973. Seminar in Women’s Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisite: 12 upper-division semester credit hours in Women’s Studies.
This undergraduate seminar, limited to junior and senior Women’s Studies majors and minors, offers the opportunity to study a special topic, issue, author, or period in Women’s Studies. May be repeated once for credit when topics vary. (Formerly WS 4973.) Generally offered: Fall. Course Fees: DL01 $75; LRH1 $20; STSH $30.
WGSS 4993. Honors Thesis. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Supervised research and preparation of an Honors Thesis for the purpose of earning Women’s Studies Honors. May be repeated once with advisor approval. (Formerly WS 4993.) Course Fee: LRH1 $20; STSH $30.