Program Summary
ETHNIC STUDIES FOR EDUCATORS - Certificate of Achievement
The Ethnic Studies for Educators Certificate of Achievement is designed to equip emerging and established educators with essential knowledge and pedagogical strategies from the field of Ethnic Studies. This will prepare individuals to teach in Ethnic Studies or integrate the values and principles of this field into their professional practice. Students will engage with transformative approaches to teaching and learning that can be utilized and adapted for all age groups, with a particular focus on PK-12. This certificate prepares students for continued study to achieve an Associate’s Degree or transfer to a university. It also provides transferable skills that can be used in a range of educational and professional settings, such as paraprofessionals, school staff, counselors, and more.
Career Opportunities
The primary career opportunities associated with this Certificate include teaching and education. Specifically, this program establishes students as ideal candidates for transfer if they are seeking a teaching credential and a career as a PK-12 educator. This includes preparation for any subject area credential, and the certificate is particularly well-suited to the in-development credential for Ethnic Studies. Given the creation of a high school graduation requirement for Ethnic Studies, this is a rapidly growing area that is vital to the educational, intellectual, and economic success of our region.
In addition to the important work of PK-12 teaching, individuals with expertise in Ethnic Studies pedagogies are also equipped for direct employment and/or future study to pursue career-building jobs such as curriculum developer, instructional aide, program coordinator, peer health educator, policy advocate, diversity and inclusion consultant, community organizer, educational coach/tutor, school administration, counseling, and more. This certificate builds additional opportunities and entry points for interested students who can fill the established need for educational professionals in San Luis Obispo County. *
* Source: https://www.newtimesslo.com/news/teach-the-future-the-ticket-2-teach-program-aims-to-support-aspiring-preschool-teachers-with-mentors-and-resources-and-ease-local-teacher-sh-14192639
Core Courses (Required)
Units: 12.0
ETHN 230
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL JUSTICE AND ETHNIC STUDIES
3.0
ETHN 231
DECOLONIZATION AND RACIAL JUSTICE MOVEMENTS
3.0
210 (Cross-Listed)
3.0
ETHN 210
ETHNIC STUDIES FOR EDUCATORS
3.0
OR
EDUC 210
ETHNIC STUDIES FOR EDUCATORS
3.0
EDUC 200
INTRODUCTION TO THE TEACHING PROFESSION
3.0
Electives (Choose one)
Units: 3.0
ES4E Electives
3.0
ETHN 211
CRITICAL WHITENESS STUDIES
3.0
OR
ETHN 234
WOMEN OF COLOR
3.0
OR
ETHN 240
INTRODUCTION TO NATIVE AMERICAN AND INDIGENOUS STUDIES
3.0
OR
ETHN 250
INTRODUCTION TO BLACK STUDIES
3.0
OR
ETHN 260
INTRODUCTION TO CHICANX AND LATINX STUDIES
3.0
OR
ETHN 262
CHICANX AND LATINX COMMUNITY PRACTICE
3.0
OR
ETHN 270
INTRODUCTION TO ASIAN AMERICAN STUDIES
3.0
Work Experience (Minimum one unit)
Units: 1.0-4.0
1.0-4.0
ETHN 252
WORK EXPERIENCE IN ETHNIC STUDIES
1.0-4.0
OR
EDUC 252
WORK EXPERIENCE IN EDUCATION
1.0-4.0
Total: 16.0-19.0
Program Outcomes
Analyze the core principles of Ethnic Studies pedagogies demonstrated in diverse historical and contemporary contexts.
Written essays, discussions, presentations, multi-format projects, and similar assessment methods.
Apply culturally responsive teaching strategies and practices within diverse educational settings, showcasing an ability to create inclusive learning environments for all students.
Small group activities, facilitated lessons, lesson planning, library research, observation of teaching, and similar assessments.
Evaluate the impact of Ethnic Studies principles on educational equity and social justice by conducting research and presenting findings relevant to educational praxis.
Projects, reflection, group work, observation of social and political policies, analysis of institutional and administrative factors, and similar assessments.
Demonstrate an understanding of the historical and contemporary issues surrounding historically defined racialized groups, with an emphasis on resistance, struggle, and transformation.
Analysis of media and current events, presentations, discussions, and similar assessments.