Course Descriptions

3 units, 3 hours lecture

An introduction to the sociological analysis of ethnicity, race and immigration in a global context. Topics include the history of minority groups in the United States, patterns of interaction between racial and ethnic groups, colonialism, immigration, identity formation, prejudice, discrimination, racism, institutional racism, civil rights movements, and the intersection between race, social class and gender.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D; IGETC 4

Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture

Achieving cultural competency is a process involving human interaction. This course provides a framework for critical reflection, knowledge acquisition, dialogue and best practices. It includes theoretical and practical explorations of attitudes, behavior,
institutions, and policies. Students gain skills with people of diverse cultures, languages, socio-economic classes, races, ethnic backgrounds, religions, sexual and gender orientations, special needs and other social identities. Students begin their work toward cultural proficiency by operationalizing, or practicing, cross-cultural knowledge and skills. The course examines privilege and oppression, intersectionality of identities, various
groups’ barriers to equal access and opportunity, and how cross-cultural competence moves people and institutions toward practices of inclusiveness.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D2; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

Introduction to Women’s Studies
3 units, 3 hours lecture

Interdisciplinary introduction to the origins, purpose, subject matter, and methods of Women’s Studies and to feminist perspectives in the social sciences on a range of issues affecting women of diverse backgrounds. Study of gender and its intersections with race, class, sexuality, disability, age, religion, and other systems of difference. Includes such topics as gender-based language, personality development and self-concept, social evolution, family structures, and economic life.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to CSU

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent

This course is designed to explore the role and development of the Mexican/
Chicano/Chicana people in the history of the Southwest United States. An
examination of significant aspects of United States history with emphasis on
the social, economic, political and cultural implications to Mexican/Chicano/Chicana people in the United States. Beginning with pre-Colombian Meso-America to the Mexican-American War (1848) selected aspects of history will be highlighted for the purpose of examining the experiences and contributions of this unique indigenous ethnic group. The U.S. Federal Constitution is studied with special emphasis on the impact and effects of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Particular attention is given to political philosophies of both countries and its impact on the Mexican American community.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D3; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent

This course is designed to explore the role and development of the Chicano/
Chicana people in the history of the Southwest United States. An examination of significant aspects of United States history with emphasis on the social, economic, political and cultural implications to Chicano/Chicana people in the United States. Beginning with the Mexican-American War (1848) to the present period selected aspects of history will be highlighted for the purpose of examining the experiences and contributions of this unique indigenous ethnic group. The Federal Constitution is studied with special emphasis on the impact and effects on Chicanos/Chicanas. Particular attention is given to political
philosophies and impact of legislation on the Chicano/Chicana community leading to contemporary U.S. Society.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D3; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

5 units, 5 hours lecture
Prerequisite: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in Spanish 121 or equivalent.

Fundamentals of spoken and written Spanish for the bilingual speaker. This
course is designed to help Spanish-speaking students further improve their
oral and written communication skills. Emphasis on writing, reading comprehension, and vocabulary building at the intermediate level in a cultural context. Exposure to the diversity within the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. This course is designed to provide the bilingual speaker with the linguistic and learning skills required for successfully
completing upper division courses in Spanish. This course will be taught in
Spanish. Not open to students with credit in Spanish 220 and 221.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C2; CSU C2; IGETC 6A
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

(Spanish 123)
Spanish For the Native Speaker II
5 units, 5 hours lecture
Prerequisite: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in Spanish 122 or equivalent.

This course is a continuation of Cross-Cultural Studies 122 with emphasis on
grammar, vocabulary building, precision in word choice, readings, and writing in selected topics within cultural contexts in art, literature, culture, history, and film as these appear in the Spanish speaking world.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C2; CSU C2; IGETC 3B, 6A
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

American Culture and Institutions
3 units, 3 hours lecture

An introduction to American culture stressing the governmental, political, economic, geographical and general cultural aspects of American society. An
overview of the development of American values using terminology and perspectives from these social and behavioral sciences.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D
Transfers to: CSU, UC

3 units, 3 hours lecture

An introduction to theories and research findings regarding cultural influences
on human behavior and cognitive processes (life-span development, abnormal behavior and mental health, drug use, self-concept, emotion, social behavior, perception, learning, intelligence, and memory). By providing students with a non-judgmental understanding of how culture influences human behavior, this course will make them more equipped to interact in a world where there is increasing contact among different cultures.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D2; CSU D3; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture

A survey of Mexican art from pre-Columbian times to the present, including Chicano/Chicana folk and contemporary art. Some attention is given to relationships between Chicano/Chicana and traditional Mexican art, as well as to the relationships among Chicano/Chicana and Anglo-American and European art.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C3; CSU C1; IGETC 3A
Transfers to: CSU, UC

3 units, 3 hours lecture

A study of Chicanas through the lens of Chicana Studies feminist scholarship. Through the use of literature, the arts and media, the course explores the intersections of gender, race, ethnicity, and socio-economic class in Chicana identity and experiences. Themes include power and resistance; work, family and culture; cultural representations, and the interplay of social processes on the development of identity.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C1; CSU D, E; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC

Introduction to Chicana/o Studies
3 units, 3 hours lecture

This course is an introduction to Mexicana/o-Chicana/o culture and identity in the United States viewed through the lens of the origins, evolution, and current status of
Chicana/o studies. Explores the research, theories, methods and debates in, and impact of, the field. Examines current intellectual trends, scholar activism, societal developments and the issues affecting Mexicana/o-Chicana/o communities. The course is taught from a multidisciplinary approach using the scholarship of Chicano Studies, the social sciences, visual arts, drama, history, literature, and music.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C1, D1; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent.

This course covers the social, political, cultural, economic and intellectual
history of indigenous people in North America from pre-history to pre-Civil War in United States. Native experiences are placed in the context of the evolution of diverse native nations, within the growth of the U.S., and within the development of American institutions and ideals. California and San Diego County nations are highlighted.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D3; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent.

An historical survey of the indigenous peoples of the North American Continent from the period of 1850 to the present. Attention will be given to contemporary, historical, political, and socio-economic issues affecting the American Indian nationwide, statewide and locally. Indian perspectives of native and nonnative cultures will be included. The Federal and State
Constitutions are studied with special emphasis on the effects and influence of
the Indian culture and society. Particular attention is given to political philosophies and the impact of legislation on Indian culture and society.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D3; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture

An in-depth analysis and discussion of American Indian cultural development as influenced by native and non-native traditions and influences. This course will examine the ways in which American Indians view the world, their place in it, and their responsibilities to it within an ethno-environmental context. Emphasis is placed on tribal and family relationships and social adjustments made by individuals. Analyzes the influence of these traditions on non-Indian cultures and philosophy, sociopolitics, science, religion, and the arts. Deals with the ongoing adaptability and endurance of American Indian traditions and customs given the changing conditions or legal requirements of the times.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC

3 units, 3 hours lecture

An historical overview of California native people and their timeless cultural elements. Areas to be studied will include: an investigation into pre-European contact cultures and the subsequent impact of Spanish missions and Anglo-American institution and values.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D; IGETC 3B
Transfers to: CSU, UC

3 units, 3 hours lecture

The study of prehistoric, historic and modern creative art forms of American Indians. This course will investigate the origins of American Indian art from rock paintings to contemporary artists and artisans. The class will compare and contrast art forms said to be Native American in content and Native American artists creating contemporary art in European-based art forms. The question, “Is it art” will be examined in the context of historical European biases and the question “What is American Indian art?” from legal, cultural, anthropological, and fine arts perspectives.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C3; CSU C1; IGETC 3A
Transfers to: CSU, UC

San Diego County American Indian Tribes
3 units, 3 hours lecture

This course discusses the cultural complexity of indigenous San Diego County Indians, spanning geographically from the ocean to the mountains and desert. San Diego County has 18 Indian Reservations, more than any county in the United States. The course examines pre-contact, migration/relocation patterns, present day reservations, and an in-depth study of the dominant Hokan speakers (Kumeyaay-Diegueño) and of the three groups of Uto-Aztecan speakers (Luiseño, Cahuilla and Cupeño). The history of these groups includes the Spanish, Mexican, and American periods resulting in forced removals and loss of traditional territories and altered traditions. Also covered is each group’s origins, traditional songs, oral tradition, religious practices, foods, family patterns, and how they have survived and maintained their language, arts and culture. The course evaluates how the tribes shaped ancient and modern San Diego, including the socio-economic and political importance of gaming tribes and sovereignty.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU C2, D; IGETC 3B, 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC

3 units, 3 hours lecture

A study of black women in the U.S. using literature, the arts and media, produced by and about black women. Explores the intersections of gender, race, and socio-economic class in black women’s identity and experiences. Themes include power and resistance; work, family and culture; cultural representations and stereotypes, and the interplay of social processes on the development of identity.

Satisfies General Education for: CSU C2 D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC

Communication Studies: Race and Ethnicity
3 units, 3 hours lecture

This course provides both a theoretical and a practical exploration of communication, race, and ethnicity in the general context of U.S. culture, with a focus on race and ethnicity in popular culture and the arts. Attention is given to how contemporary and historical constructions of race and ethnicity influence both popular and everyday communication interactions. Emphasis is on developing communication competence in situations where perceived racial or ethnic difference factors into successful communication outcomes.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C2; CSU C2, D; IGETC 3B, 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

Introduction to Black Studies
3 units, 3 hours lecture

An overview of Black Studies as a discipline, including its socio-political and academic origins, evolution of ideas, methodologies, and goals. Subject areas include history, politics, and economics; social systems; oppression and empowerment; family and community; identity; and contemporary issues. Scholarship, literature, media, and the arts illustrate the interdisciplinary approach to studying black experiences, behavior and thought.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC

3 units, 3 hours lecture

An examination of significant historical and cultural factors that shape the
perceptions, attitude, and views of the people of the Middle East. Attention
will be given to the role of religion, nationalism, and Islamic currents. The
relationship between the East and the West will be examined and assessed.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C1; CSU C2, D; IGETC 3B, 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC 

3 units, 3 hours lecture

A survey of major characteristics of Japanese culture as seen in Japan today. This course will compare and contrast traditional Japanese culture and values with the modern Japanese culture. This course will examine what role history has played in the development of traditional Japanese culture and the role western culture has played in the development of the modern Japanese culture. It will examine the issues that this dichotomy creates and the relationship between Japan and the western world. This course will be taught in English.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C1; CSU C2; IGETC 3B
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture

Major characteristics of the French-speaking world as reflected in its culture, civilization, and literature. The course will compare French-speaking European countries (such as France, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg) to French-speaking countries of Northern Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, Canada and the Caribbean. The class is conducted in English.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C1; CSU C2, D; IGETC 3B
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture

Analysis of the many contexts and variables related to an individual's socialization process and how these forces impact on one's work with children and families. This course will examine and discuss topics related to culture, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, special needs, and diverse lifestyles as they are represented in our schools and society at large. This course includes self-reflection as a tool for personal growth. Current social issues will be examined through the lens of global diversity. Students will better understand their own attitudes regarding diversity and apply this knowledge to their work with children and families.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D2
Transfers to CSU

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent.

This course covers the transnational/global concepts of gender, social, economic, political, cultural and intellectual/creative aspects of women in world society from prehistoric times to the early modern era (1500 C.E.). Societal structures, cultural norms, legal/sociological constructs, religious paradigms affecting women throughout Asia, Africa, Middle East, the Americas and Europe will be explored. The course will also focus upon gaining an understanding of women’s past accomplishments, both major and mundane, as well as limitations, which may illuminate their present and future.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent.

This course covers the transnational/global concepts of gender, social, economic, political, cultural and intellectual/creative aspects of women in world society from 1500 C.E. to the present. Societal structures, cultural norms, legal/sociological constructs, religious paradigms affecting women throughout modern Asia, Africa, Middle East, the Americas and Europe will be explored. The course will also focus upon gaining an understanding of women’s past accomplishments, both major and mundane, as well as limitations, which may illuminate their present and future.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D1; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture

An introduction to traditional tribal governments and to their structure. This
course examines the legal rights of tribal governments and the changing roles of federal and state governments in relations to tribal governments. Issues of sovereignty in interactions between tribal-federal and tribal-state relationships
are examined.

Transfers to CSU

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent.

A survey of United States history from colonial times to the American Civil War seen from the perspective and experiences of African-Americans. The course will begin with examining the historical backdrop of African peoples in continental Africa and trace their story through early modern European contact, the slave trade, enslavement in the Americas, colonial America, the revolutionary and Constitutional era, the early Republic, participation in American institutions, sectional issues between North and South over slavery, the Civil War and emancipation. Course will also examine the contradictions, paradoxes and constitutional challenges of the American experiment of freedom alongside the institution of slavery. The course also explores the political, social, economic, legalistic, cultural, spiritual, literary and artistic life of African-Americans during this historical period.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D3; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or English as a Second Language 119 or equivalent

A survey of United States history from Reconstruction to the present seen from the perspective and experience of African-Americans. The course begins with examining the historical backdrop of the Civil War’s aftermath and the emancipation of slaves and then traces the African-American experience through modern American history. Topics include Reconstruction, Jim Crow South, late 19th century, pre WWI and the Progressive Era, WWI and the Roaring 20s, Depression Era, WWII and the home front, post-WWII era and segregation, Civil Rights Era, struggles of the 1960s and 1970s, and current times. Course also explores the contradictions, paradoxes and constitutional challenges, both federal and state, of the American experiment of equality alongside racial segregation and injustices. The course also explores the political, social, economic, legalistic, cultural, spiritual, literary and artistic life of African-Americans during modern American history.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College D3; CSU D; IGETC 4
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

1 unit, 5 hours work experience per week
60 volunteer hours or 75 paid hours

Community Service Learning Experience (CSLE) is a community outreach program which promotes the national agenda of volunteer engagement. The purpose is to provide students the opportunity to explore options and careers in a selected area of study. For work experience requirements, See page 45.

Transfers to CSU

Chicano/Chicana Literature
3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or equivalent.

This course introduces students to a survey of folk, traditional, and contemporary Chicano/Chicana literature. Literary works originally written in English and the Chicano/a bilingual idiom as well as English translations of works written in Spanish will be taught. Students examine the literature as a reflection of Chicano/a experience in the world and the effects of the literature on American culture and politics. Reading selections may consist of poetry, ballads, short stories, novels, plays, and nonfiction prose. Authors such as the following will be read, analyzed, discussed, and written about in critical essays and exams: Rudolfo Anaya, Lorna Dee Cervantes, Helena Maria Viramontes, Sandra Cisneros, Jimmy Santiago Baca, Luis J. Rodriguez, Luis Alberto Urrea, Dagoberto Gilb

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C2; CSU C2; IGETC 3B
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or equivalent.

A survey and literary analysis of American Indian literature; folk, creation and origin stories, legends, and poetry from the oral tradition to contemporary American Indian authors.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C2; CSU C2; IGETC 3B
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)

3 units, 3 hours lecture
Recommended Preparation: A "C" grade or higher or "Pass" in English 110 or equivalent.

This course introduces students to a survey of folk, traditional, and contemporary Black literature. Students examine the literature as a reflection of Black experience in the world and the effects of the literature on American culture and politics. Reading selections may consist of poetry, short stories, novels, and nonfiction prose, including essays, letters, political tracts, autobiographies, speeches, and sermons. Authors such as the following will be read, analyzed, discussed, and written about in critical essays and exams: Phillis Wheatley, Harriet Jacobs, Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, Richard Wright, Gwendolyn Brooks, Amiri Baraka, Lucille Clifton, Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, August Wilson, Saul Williams, Ntozake Shange, and Natasha Trethewey.

Satisfies General Education for: Grossmont College C2; CSU C2; IGETC 3B
Transfers to: CSU, UC (credit limited: see page 55)