Undergraduate Programs

Gender, Ethnicity and Multicultural Studies

Bachelor of Arts – B.A. |
Undergraduate

Dia De Los Mueros celebration

About the Program

Explore how identities, cultures, and histories shape our world through the GEMS program. Choose from areas like African American, Asian Pacific Islander, Chicana/o Latina/o, Native American, or Gender and Sexuality Studies. The Pre-Credential Option blends GEMS with education courses for a teaching career.

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Gender, Ethnicity and Multicultural Studies

The Polytechnic Experience

Gain firsthand insights into cultural advocacy and educational outreach through community-based projects, service-learning, and research while debating real-world issues like gender equality and racial justice. From campus cultural events to community partnerships, you’ll engage in hands-on experiences that prepare you to be an agent of positive change.

Courses

Cal Poly Pomona’s Bachelor of Arts in Gender, Ethnicity, and Multicultural Studies (GEMS) offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the diverse aspects of our global society. This option allows students to specialize in areas such as African American Studies, Asian Pacific Islander Studies, Chicana/o Latina/o Studies, Native American Studies, or Gender and Sexuality Studies. Students develop critical thinking and social inquiry skills through a curriculum that explores various ethnicities, cultures, and gender identities. The program's emphasis on comparative and expansive perspectives prepares graduates for careers in social justice, community advocacy, and various fields that value an in-depth understanding of diversity. The integration of critical race, gender, and multicultural studies provides a rich academic foundation for addressing and contributing to the creation of a more just and inclusive society.

For the most up-to-date information on courses for this program, visit the course catalog or contact an advisor.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

EWS Outstanding Scholar Award

The EWS Outstanding Scholar Award is presented to recognize a student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarly achievement during the 2024–2025 academic year. This award honors juniors or seniors in the GEMS major who have shown excellence through research, presentations at academic conferences, or participation in the GEMS Senior Capstone Symposium. With a strong academic record and a minimum GEMS GPA of 3.2, recipients exemplify dedication to intellectual growth and scholarly engagement within the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences.

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Native American students during commencement

Gender, Ethnicity, and Multicultural Studies

NATIVE Pipeline

The NATIVE Pipeline program empowers Native American students to pursue college and reach their full potential. With Native Americans making up just 1% of undergrads, this program bridges the gap by providing mentors, cultural activities, and scholarships for essentials like housing and books.