Gaining a Global Perspective Through Multicultural Studies

Multicultural studies might sound like one of those fields about which your parents or friends would say, "What are you going to do with a major in that??" But, especially in light of the new anti-immigration law in Arizona and talks of immigration reform on Capitol Hill, multicultural studies majors are even more relevant in the marketplace than you might think.

The Importance of Multicultural Studies
In today's interdependent world, analyzing cultures other than your own is an invaluable experience. Multicultural studies majors help you think outside national borders, increase your capacity for intellectual open-mindedness, and develop a global perspective.

Multicultural education exposes you to the economic, historical, political, and social forces that have shaped the cross-cultural and ethnic experience in every country in the world. By examining the arts, language, literature, and philosophy of ethnic groups such as African Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans, and Latinos/Hispanics, you will develop an appreciation for the beliefs, ideologies, and moral and aesthetic values of those around you. Multicultural education students will also gain insight into the historical importance of ethnic identity and a deeper understanding of the impact of various ethnic groups on social thought, practice, and institutions.

Multicultural Courses
Multicultural studies are a key component of liberal arts education. Interdisciplinary multicultural courses promote ethnic and multicultural knowledge, skills, and values and provide education in the humanities, social sciences, and applied arts. Multicultural courses focus on various ethnic, racial, and culturally diverse groups as well as critical issues such as discrimination, prejudice, and stereotyping. Within your multicultural studies major, you may have the opportunity to specialize in a particular discipline, such as business, government, or human services.

Each multicultural course may employ a different approach to cultural diversity. Some courses emphasize the study of language, history, or thought, offering an appreciation of specific cultures and societies. Others utilize cross-cultural approaches to understand cultural differences.

Specific multicultural courses may include interracial dating and marriage, civil rights, immigration, social justice, racial politics, cultural pluralism, ethnic research, gender and culture, liberation theology, and social change.

Multicultural Careers
A multicultural education can lead to careers focused on the international arena, such as foreign services or international business. The major can also prepare you for multicultural careers in education, environmental planning, human resources, law, public health, public relations, or social services.

Of course, a multicultural studies major is valuable in any career. In a global marketplace, employers are seeking professionals with cultural sensitivity and competence. Cross-cultural training enables workers to communicate effectively and make decisions from a perspective beyond their own small corner of the world. And since many multicultural studies majors include foreign language coursework and promote multilingual competencies, graduates are especially in demand.

So, what's your take on immigration reform? What will you do in the face of social conflict or social injustice such as discrimination or racism? Multicultural studies can inform your opinions on key issues like these and prepare you to function effectively across our culturally diverse, global community. How many other majors can promise the same?

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