PhD in Critical Ethnic Studies in Boulder United States | University of Colorado Boulder

The PhD program in critical ethnic studies presents an innovative approach, equipping students with comprehensive training to examine and interpret the interconnected dynamics of race, ethnicity, culture, indigeneity, gender, class, sexuality, religion, dis/ability, and legal status across local, regional, and global settings. Students enjoy the freedom to explore their unique research interests while developing a strong foundation in both fundamental and emerging ethnic studies theories.

Our department focuses on investigating the relational aspects of race and associated categories—especially gender and sexuality—through frameworks that address their global construction, resistance, and lived experiences. We maintain that thorough critical and relational analysis stems from deep engagement with specific fields such as Africana, Asian American, Chicanx/Latinx, and Native American/Indigenous studies. Faculty members bring interdisciplinary expertise from areas like ethnic studies, gender and sexuality studies, environmental studies, critical sports studies, intersectional criminology, cultural studies, literature and film studies, border studies, and American studies, alongside traditional disciplines such as anthropology, history, education, religious studies, and sociology.