Chicano Studies
The Chicano Studies program provides an interdisciplinary curriculum of courses that explore the roots of a cultural tradition beginning with pre-Columbian Mexico and extending into the many areas of contemporary American society, including politics, education, literature, the arts, and religion. Chicano Studies majors gain insight into cultural issues and knowledge of the historical significance of Chicanos as a group. Chicano Studies courses are taught in English.
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"Viva La Raza" (2005) by Favianna Rodriguez & Jesus Barraza www.favianna.com
This image was created to advertise the Annual Chicano Latino Heritage Celebration held at Mesa College in the fall.
Mission of the Department
The Chicano Studies curriculum is designed to meet general education requirements for all students. Many of the classes also serve as lower-division preparation for the major classes for students planning to transfer and earn a BA degree in Chicano Studies and professional fields, including social sciences, humanities, law, teaching, social work, and public administration. Chicano Studies courses transfer to four-year colleges and universities.
We believe in the development of the total person, with special emphasis on both the individual and social potentials of students. It is therefore incumbent on Chicano Studies to help students to succeed in the pursuit of excellence in their individual academic and career goals.
We believe it is a primary responsibility of Chicano Studies to develop the social awareness and social conscience of students to stimulate their leadership and community service potential.
We believe that students must develop a solid academic understanding of their socio-economic, political, and historical realities. Inherent in this process is the development of students’ ability to think and express themselves in an organized, logical, and critical manner.
"Toward a Philosophy of Chicano Studies at Mesa College"
November 10, 1976
