Baruch College, part of The City University of New York, has launched a Black and Latino Studies degree program for the 2022–23 academic year. The new degree track, housed in the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences and chaired by Professor Shelly Eversley adds five full-time, dedicated faculty members.
Dr. Eversley said that “students will be able to think through challenges using multiple lenses for analysis. They’ll get experience working with both qualitative and quantitative methods through literature, politics, economics, history, and communication, just to name a few. This differentiated approach will prepare students for post-college careers in both the public and private sectors, including education, human resources, public policy, journalism, the law, and community development.”
A critical component of the 30-credit degree program is a substantial fieldwork requirement. Students will receive course credit for their work with New York City-based and national organizations dedicated to advancing racial and social justice, gaining the operational and leadership skills for career success. Students will also participate in public-facing research projects, giving them a chance to forge connections with diverse communities and translate their classroom experience to the work of policymakers, activists, and other experts.
“With the new Black and Latino Studies major, Baruch offers a program that provides our students a comprehensive understanding of race, ethnicity, identity, and the bearing they have on society,” said Baruch College President S. David Wu. “This is a great opportunity to cultivate the next generation of leaders and policymakers. The major builds on Baruch’s rich history in the field and reflects our values as an institution: excellence in teaching, research, and outcomes for our students.”