BA in Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies in Chicago United States | University of Chicago

The Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies provides an interdisciplinary approach for students to explore the histories, languages, and cultures of diverse racial and ethnic communities—both independently and in relation to one another—with particular emphasis on systemic power dynamics. The program investigates global phenomena such as genocide, slavery, colonization, incarceration, migration, and diasporic movements, while analyzing the cultural, artistic, and literary contributions of populations from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. These groups, whether through voluntary migration or forced displacement to the Americas, developed complex identities shaped by both their ancestral heritage and their new environments. Graduates with this degree gain strong qualifications for advanced study in humanities or social sciences, as well as professional fields like law, medicine, public policy, social work, business, or international relations. Career opportunities span education, media, government, creative arts, and nonprofit work. The curriculum emphasizes essential competencies in analytical reasoning, cross-cultural comparison, social theory, research methodology, and effective communication.