Interdisciplinary Studies, Option 1: Intercultural Studies Associate in Arts Degree Program

Program Overview

Program Overview

This degree option introduces students to multiple cultural perspectives to enable them to be informed, engaged citizens in a multicultural society. Depending on the student's focus, this degree offers transfer opportunities into areas such as World Arts and Cultures, Global Studies, Multicultural Studies, and Ethnic Studies. Students should work with a counselor to identify any additional supporting classes for transfer to a particular program and university. Note: most courses listed in this major can also be used to meet requirements for the California State University General Education or IGETC.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students completing this program will be able to:

• Read, write, speak and listen to communicate effectively.
• Perform quantitative analysis using appropriate resources.
• Analyze information, reason critically and creatively and formulate ideas logically.
• Understand and appreciate the diversity of the human experience.
• Recognize ethical principles and behave responsibly.

University Transfer Program

Use Assist to identify lower division major preparation for the California State University and the University of California systems. For independent or out-of-state colleges and universities use their catalogs to locate this information. Transfer Services can assist you to gather this information.

Meet with a CSM counselor to discuss how to achieve academic goals and to develop a comprehensive student educational plan (SEP).

University Transfer Program 60–70 transferable units

• California State University
• University of California
• Independent Colleges and Universities

Program Requirements

Major Requirements

• Required Core Courses: 3 units. At least 3 units of courses that examine more than one culture within the course, to be selected from the following options:
  • ANTH 110 | Cultural Anthropology | 3 units
  • ANTH 180 | Magic, Science and Religion | 3 units
  • COMM 150 | Intercultural Communication | 3 units
  • ETHN 585 | Ethnicity in Cinema | 3 units
  • GEOG 110 | Cultural Geography | 3 units
  • LIT. 220 | Introduction to World Literature | 3 units
  • MUS. 250 | World Music | 3 units
  • PHIL 300 | Introduction to World Religions | 3 units
  • PLSC 110 | Contemporary Foreign Governments | 3 units
• Required Selective Courses: 6 units. At least 6 units of courses in the arts and literature to be selected from the following options:
  • ETHN 288 | African-American Cinema | 3 units
  • LIT. 232 | Survey of English Literature II | 3 units
  • LIT. 430 | Greek Mythology and Classical Literature | 3 units
• Required Selective Courses: 9 units. At least 9 units of courses in the areas of social, political, and economic institutions to be selected from the following options:
  • ETHN 101 | Latin American and Indigenous Peoples History and Culture | 3 units
  • ETHN 300 | Introduction to La Raza Studies | 3 units
  • HIST 100 | History of Western Civilization I | 3 units
  • HIST 101 | History of Western Civilization II | 3 units
  • HIST 260 | Women In American History | 3 units
• Total Required Major Units: 18
• And required General Education coursework and electives as needed to meet the minimum 60 units required for the Associate degree.

Please refer to the AA/AS Degree Requirements for more information.

Program Outline

Outline:

This degree option introduces students to multiple cultural perspectives, preparing them to become informed and engaged citizens in a multicultural society. It offers transfer opportunities into areas such as World Arts and Cultures, Global Studies, Multicultural Studies, and Ethnic Studies. Students should consult a counselor to identify additional supporting classes for transfer to a specific program and university. Most courses can also be used to meet California State University General Education or IGETC requirements.

Careers:

While no specific career paths are listed, the program equips graduates with transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and cultural understanding, applicable to various careers in diverse fields.

Other:

• Required Major Units: 18
• Total units required for the Associate degree: 60
• Students should refer to the AA/AS Degree Requirements for more information.

Additional Notes:

• The program focuses on cultural understanding and analysis, equipping students to navigate various cultural contexts and engage effectively in an increasingly diverse world.
• The program offers flexibility with various course options in arts and literature, social, political, and economic institutions.
• Students are encouraged to consult a counselor to maximize their transfer opportunities and tailor their program towards specific career aspirations.