Ethnic Social Studies Certificate
This course of study emphasizes interdisciplinary knowledge about the role of ethnicity in its national and global contexts. The curriculum provides students with the tools to critically analyze the history and politics of race and ethnicity within US society; the formation of cultural knowledge; and the study of power, community, and social justice from an inter-ethnic perspective.
The courses within this program, drawing on the humanities and social sciences, aim to provide comprehensive knowledge about ethnic groups and relations in US society, as well as in global contexts. Because of the international diversity of US society due to migration and globalization, many organizations and business see the need for training individuals to learn about others cultures so that they can interact cooperatively. This diversity is particularly noticeable in Montgomery County and Montgomery College.
Training in ethnic studies is intended to enhance the sensitivity level of students towards individuals of other ethnic groups with whom they interact professionally and socially. Understandings gained by engaging in ethnic studies courses will enable students to be able to participate fully in a multicultural environment, and will aid in their development as informed and competent professionals in a wide variety of fields. We envision a program that will equip students with tools to complement the skills they already possess in their respective chosen careers such as nursing, law enforcement, social work and education.
Students of ethnic studies will become more adept in conducting investigations, providing counseling services, leading conflict resolution sessions, and analyzing social problems because they have been exposed to selective and specialized knowledge and information about the complex community they serve. Montgomery College, a higher education institution with a strong commitment to diversity, is an ideal environment in which to foster an understanding of ethnic relations regarding power, community and social justice.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, a student will be able to:
- Identify and explicate the differences between ethnic groups and the creation and maintenance of ethnic group identities.
- Describe and explain the relationship tensions of ethnic groups within the context of a larger society.
- Identify issues related to the migrant/transnational experience within the U.S. and a global context.
- Apply newly found internalized understanding of these issues to a diverse work situation.
- Challenge stereotypes and promote an understanding of the heterogeneous, complex and fluid nature of ethnic identities.
- Enhance communication with different ethnic groups in the work place and in the community at large.
Program Advising
Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans and make sure you are on track to graduate and/or transfer. The program advising guide outlines the certificate requirements and is meant to supplement the advising process.
Careers
For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.
- MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN)new window account and other job search topics.
- Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.
Curriculum
How To Apply and Register
Find out more about the General Studies Social Sciences, Administration and Health Core that allows for an interdisciplinary exploration of related disciplines. Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.
MC offers a wide variety of noncredit classes designed to help you upgrade your skills, pursue career training, or learn something new.