Overview

The Chicana and Chicano Studies programme at San Diego State University provides an interdisciplinary and transnational approach to teaching, research, and public service. Students explore the complex history, politics, and ethics of Chicana/o/x-Latinx communities situated on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. This curriculum is designed to develop interculturally aware leaders ready to engage in social-justice oriented scholarship.

Located in a vibrant metropolitan area, the department uses its unique position near the international border as a living laboratory for academic discovery. The programme emphasises the rich flow of culture and people, providing a deep understanding of race, gender identities, and immigration. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical community engagement.

Why Chicana and Chicano Studies at San Diego State University?

As one of the first departments of its kind in the nation, the programme offers a historic and well-established environment for cultural study. Students receive mentorship from award-winning faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The department's location allows for a unique focus on the U.S.-Mexico borderlands, providing insights into sociopolitical contexts and symbolic borders.

The programme also highlights expressive arts, including cinema, music, and theatre, alongside community practices for social change. Students gain valuable experience working with local and transnational community organisations, enhancing their critical thinking and communication skills. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are prepared for leadership roles in a diverse, globalised society.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide flexibility, allowing students to choose modules that align with their specific interests. Modules may include:

Chicana and Chicano Studies
Border Studies
Race and Ethnicity
Gender Identities
U.S.-Mexico Borderlands
Expressive Arts
Community Practices for Social Change
Sociopolitical Contexts

Careers with Chicana and Chicano Studies

Graduates are well-equipped for a variety of professional paths and further academic study. The skills gained in communication and problem-solving are highly transferable to diverse workplace settings. Many alumni pursue successful careers in federal, state, and local government sectors.

The programme also prepares students for roles in education, law, and journalism, where intercultural awareness is essential. Additionally, graduates often find opportunities within non-profit and grassroots organisations, focusing on community health, social justice, and educational advocacy. The degree provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue graduate-level research or professional degrees.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Chicana and Chicano Heritage

Chicana and Chicano Studies

Oral Communication

Written Communication

Chicana and Chicano Role in the American Political System

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies History View 808 other Bachelors in Area & Cultural Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

A nonrefundable fee of $70

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Chicana and Chicano Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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