What can I do with a minor in Ethnic Studies?
Ethnic Studies is the study of ethnic groups and the histories and experiences of these groups in society. Those majoring in Ethnic Studies will gain knowledge of various ethnic groups. This knowledge will be applied to a range of career areas dealing with social issues and activities including public administration and relations, law, social services and education.
Related Occupations:
| Administrative Analyst |
Advertising Officer |
Bank Officer |
| Bilingual Education |
City Planner |
Claims Adjuster |
| Community Liaison |
Community Organization Worker |
Consultant |
| Cultural Anthropologist |
Customs / Immigration Inspector |
Educator |
| Foreign Services Officer |
Grant / Proposal Writer |
Group Counselor |
| Industrial / Organizational Psychologist |
Industrial Relations Specialist |
Intelligence Analyst |
| Lawyer |
Lobbyist |
Management Trainee |
| Museum Curator |
Personnel Officer Sociologist |
Psychologist |
| Public Administrator |
Public Relations Officer |
Rehabilitation Counselor |
| Researcher |
Revenue Agent |
Social Worker |
| Staff Analyst |
Substance Abuse Counselor |
Writer / Editor |
Possible employers of Ethnic Studies minors:
| Advertising Agencies |
Hospitals |
| Research Firms |
Banks |
| Insurance Companies |
Retailers |
| Federal / Local Government |
Museums |
| School Districts |
Non-profit Agencies |
| Universities / Colleges |
Social Service Agencies |
Skills important for Ethnic Studies minors:
- Strong writing skills
- Ability to interact well with people of differing backgrounds
- Ability to accurately interpret and evaluate events, information and ideas representing different cultures
- Knowledge of community resources
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to lead effectively
Personal attributes important for Ethnic Studies minors:
- Patient
- Resourceful
- Interest in other cultures
- Persuasive
- Ethical
- Creative
- Judicious
- Assertive
- Possess integrity
- Persistent
- Imaginative
- Diplomatic
Related activities for Ethnic Studies minors:
- Do an internship
- Join a professional association
- Join a political organization
- Work part time or volunteer in a political campaign
- Assume leadership and advocacy roles in volunteer organizations
- Take public speaking classes
Print Resources:
- Benjamin, Medea. The Peace Corps and More: 120 Ways to Work, Study and Travel in the World. Global Exchange, 1993 (or latest edition).
- Camenson, Blythe. Opportunities in Overseas Careers. VGM Career Horizon, 1997.
- InterAction Member Profiles. InterAction, 1995.
- Jebens, Harley. 100 Jobs in Social Change. Macmillan, 1996.
- Paradis, Adrian. Opportunities in Nonprofit Organization Careers. VGM Career Horizons, 1994.
Internet Resources:
Professional Associations
- African Studies Association
- National Association of Asian American Professionals
- National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
- Network of Indian Professionals
This information was adapted from: