History of Chicano Studies
The University of Texas at El Paso has 25,039 students, of which 84% are mostly of Mexican origin and more than half are the first in their families to go to college, reflecting the ethnic composition of the U.S.-Mexico border region it serves. In addition, UTEP has one of the largest enrollments of Mexican nationals and a strong nexus with Mexican institutions of higher education. UTEP a tier-one University with a 21st Century demographic profile.
The Chicano Studies Program at The University of Texas at El Paso was founded in 1970 as a result of strong community and student political action. The Program has grown since then in scope and student enrollment. Chicano Studies continues to be an instructional and research program dedicated to the study of the Mexican origin population in the United States, and is expanding its scope to include other Latino groups. Chicano Studies currently offers an undergraduate academic major and four academic minors under the Bachelor of Arts degree program. In addition, under the auspices of the Extended University, Chicano Studies offers a BA degree 100% online. In 2023, Chicano Studies became part of the Department of Chicano Studies, Languages, and Linguistics.
Chicano Studies offers a comprehensive cultural dissemination program to the El Paso community and student body. Faculty, students and community members participate in a wide range of research fellowship, internship and community service initiatives, as well as international academic exchange and research programs.
