Mission and Vision

Mission Statement 

The overarching mission of the Department of Chicano Studies, Languages, and Linguistics is to promote multilingualism, multiculturalism, and multiliteracy. Through cutting-edge interdisciplinary research on culture, literacy, and language processing and production in multilinguals, the Department aims to create and disseminate knowledge about cultural identity as well as the linguistic, cognitive, and social processes that influence language attainment, language use, and language maintenance. By integrating digital humanities, the Department leverages technology to analyze, preserve, and share cultural and linguistic knowledge, enhancing its accessibility and impact.

The Department houses three interconnected programs: 

1. Chicano Studies: The Chicano Studies Program is an instructional and research program dedicated to the study of the Mexican-origin population specifically and Latino communities in general in the United States. Centered on representation, fairness, belonging, and collective well-being, Chicano Studies provides an interdisciplinary curriculum that promotes critical thinking skills, leadership skills, computer literacy, and community engagement. The integration of digital humanities tools enhances the study and preservation of Latino cultural contributions through methodologies such as digital storytelling, archiving, and data visualization. The Chicano Studies Program offers an undergraduate academic major and minor both on-campus and 100% online. An additional field of study in Chicano Studies is available under the Bachelor of Spanish (Chicano Studies concentration) and under the Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies degree.

2. Languages: The Language Programs emphasize the study of Spanish, English for Speakers of Other Languages, French, Portuguese, and a few other languages, as well as Spanish-English Translation and Interpreting. For Spanish, French, and Portuguese, the curriculum extends to research on the analysis and interpretation of diverse artifacts (e.g., text, film, music, art, and digital media) from the corresponding language communities. By offering a targeted selection of language, culture, literature, and translation and interpreting courses, the Language Programs aim to enhance students’ language proficiency, multiculturalism, and multiliteracy, thereby preparing them for a broad range of professions (e.g., arts, business, diplomacy, education, government, health, international law, publishing, tourism, translation) in the linguistically and culturally diverse world as well as in the region. By integrating digital humanities, the curriculum incorporates tools and methodologies such as digital archiving and data visualization to explore and preserve the cultural and linguistic heritage of these communities. Through its program for English for Speakers of Other Languages, the Department also fulfills the essential and inclusive mission of the university to enable all students to have an active and successful academic life at UTEP. 

3. Linguistics: Linguistics, the scientific study of human language, examines its representation in the mind, its use in daily life, and its learning across the lifespan. The Linguistics curriculum targets the linguistic, psychological, and social processes that influence language learning and attainment, language use, language maintenance, and cultural identity, with a primary focus on bilinguals. Courses are also offered on the best practices of second language instruction in the classroom. By educating future linguists and language practitioners through theory-informed methods and community-engaged work, the Department seeks to meet the critical challenges of language education in the 21st century.

As part of an R1 research university, the Department of Chicano Studies, Languages, and Linguistics is committed to a 21st-century vision that promotes access to excellent higher education while positively impacting the health, culture, education, and economy of the region and the distance learning communities it serves. Faculty, students, and community members participate in a wide range of research, fellowship, internship, and community engagement initiatives, as well as international academic exchange and research programs. The Department’s integration of digital humanities further enhances these efforts by expanding the scope and accessibility of its research, teaching, and community partnerships.

Vision Statement

The Department of Chicano Studies, Languages, and Linguistics envisions a future where multilingualism, multiculturalism, and multiliteracy serve as the foundation for transformative education, innovative research, and meaningful community engagement. Inspired by the unique cultural and linguistic landscape of the U.S.-Mexico border region, the Department strives to:

1. Lead in Multilingual Education and Global Competency: Prepare students through rigorous academic programs in Chicano Studies (B.A.), Linguistics (Linguistics and Bilingualism B.A., Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics M.A.), and Spanish (Spanish B.A., Spanish M.A.), equipping them with advanced linguistic, cultural, and digital skills to succeed in diverse professional and academic contexts.

2. Advance Research Excellence and Innovation: Foster groundbreaking interdisciplinary research in multilingualism, multiculturalism, and digital humanities, contributing to the understanding of language, culture, and identity while addressing regional and global challenges.

3. Deepen Community Engagement: Collaborate with local, regional, and international partners to create impactful projects and initiatives that address real-world challenges, such as language access in education and cultural preservation.

4. Support Professional Pathways and Lifelong Learning: Provide opportunities for professional growth and global competency through targeted programs such as theTranslation and Interpreting minor, ensuring all students gain practical, marketable skills that complement their academic studies.

Through a commitment to academic excellence, the Department aims to transform lives, strengthen communities, and inspire a deeper understanding of the rich cultural and linguistic mosaic of the region and beyond.