Welcome to the Web Page for the Ethnic Studies Program at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). The Program was started in 1984 and since then it has quickly grown to be an important academic unit within the institution. The program is interdisciplinary and therefore introduces students to an expanding range of past and current academic research in the social sciences, arts, and humanities. Students are prepared to use and develop theoretical, analytical, and methodological approaches to critical issues relating to the study of the realities and conditions of persons of various racial and/or ethnic backgrounds. The Program stresses that scholarly examination of racial and ethnic communities helps illuminate the parallels, contradictions and strengths evident in every community. Thus, while the specific subject matter of the program is race and ethnicity, the implications of what is taught extend to other kinds of communities throughout the world.

The Ethnic studies faculty at FAU is interdisciplinary and most of their research is on the cutting edge of scholarship in the area of ethnic studies. Members of the faculty have a significant amount of publications and often appear at national and international conferences and programs. Within the institution, they are especially appreciated for their ability to work with students so that they may develop academically, and for dealing with political, social and economic issues faced by members of racial and ethnic groups.

To receive the Certificate in Ethnic Studies, students must take 15 credit hours as stipulated by the Ethnic Studies program. Faculty advisors in the program are readily available to assist students in making course selections for the completion of the Certificate in Ethnic Studies. Students earning a Certificate in Ethnic Studies may appear especially attractive to employers given America's increasing racial and ethnic diversity. Today, one may have an occupational advantage over others in the job market by acquiring knowledge about other groups.