Chicana/o Studies (CCST)


Chicana and Chicano Studies at New Mexico State University is a program that focuses on the histories, social and political realities, and cultural expression of Chicana/os in New Mexico, the Southwest and Borderlands, and the U.S. more broadly. Chicana/o Studies is critically positioned within an Ethnic Studies framework and a Latina/o/x/e Studies context.

cosmic_race_mural_1.jpg

An interdisciplinary approach

The program is interdisciplinary by nature! Core courses will integrate:
  • the humanities (literature, film, music, visual art)
  • history (of multiple populations local, national and global)
  • social sciences (psychology and identity formation, global, national, and local policy making, demographics and social and economic issues and inequities, civil rights and social justice movements, economy, environment and sustainability)
  • education (law, policy, assimilation, language)
  • health and physical sciences (public health, disparities and predispositions, statistics, Western and traditional medicine).

cosmic_race_mural_2.jpg

Welcoming and Inclusive

The realms of theory and discourse will also be layered, featuring academic and popular discussions of sexuality and gender, spirituality and religion, culture and community. Chicana/o Studies is for everyone. At a minority- and Hispanic-serving institution situated in the border region on unceded Native land, appreciation for and critical understanding of the complex, rich presence, participation, and experience of Chicana/os is significant and valuable. Chicana/o Studies courses are a useful complement to any major and encourage all students to develop tools of critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity. The program is intentionally welcoming and inclusive.

cosmic_race_mural_3.jpg

Celebration of Chicana/o identity

There is no one way to be Chicana/o: Chicana/os embody borders, are intersectional by definition. Chicana/o Studies courses provide community and recognition and celebration of Chicana/o identity and experience for Chicana/o students as well as all within the diverse student body at NMSU.

 

Meet Dr. Garay, Director of Chicana/o Studies.

Introduction by Dr. Garay, head of the BEST Chicana/o studies program, including her teaching philosophy and goals of the program.

 

Questions? ¿Preguntas?

Please contact Dr. Garay to discuss classes and curriculum.

jgaray@nmsu.edu.