Multicultural Studies Program

Program Coordinator: Deborah Dooley, Ph.D.

Program Description

In today’s world, it is more important than ever that we understand and appreciate cultural diversity. Many employers are now seeking students with a broader cultural understanding for career opportunities in areas such as business, education, government, foreign service, and social service. Multicultural Studies provides students with the background and the ability to diversify their thinking and widen their perspectives.

One of a Kind

Nazareth College is distinguished by offering the only concentration in Multicultural Studies in the Greater Rochester Area. This comprehensive course of study focuses on culture – the uniquely human development that has created different lifestyles and societies around the world. The study of culture has been the domain of Cultural Anthropology, which at Nazareth College is the organizing discipline for the Multicultural Studies Concentration.

Strong Support

Foreign Languages, International Studies, and Women’s Studies programs are primary resources for the Multicultural Studies Minor. The courses are taught by faculty from a variety of fields, bringing a multidisciplinary approach to the study of culture. Scholars and community leaders from different cultures serve as guest lecturers and instructors in the Multicultural Studies Minor. Students receive free tickets to a variety of multicultural performances and lectures that are held on campus at the Nazareth College Arts Center.

Requirements

When students select the Multicultural Studies Minor at Nazareth College, they will complete six courses (a total of 18 credit hours). Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (ANT 101) serves as the introductory course within which students are exposed to a variety of cultures from around the world.

Following this introduction, students select four courses from seven broadly defined cultural areas. Each course includes content on the history and culture of the indigenous peoples of the different areas and their interactions with other parts of the world (Please refer to MCS Courses for a complete listing of courses in the concentration).

Senior Seminar in Multicultural Studies (MCS 444) is the culmination of all the coursework. Arranged through community organizations in Rochester and surrounding areas, the Senior Seminar offers students field experiences with various cultural groups.