U.S. Latino Experience and Cultural Competency

In collaboration with

Planning is underway for a Summer 2027 launch.

The U.S. Latino Experience and Cultural Competency Specialization is a five-week summer program designed to help professionals deepen their understanding of the histories, cultures, and contemporary experiences of Latino communities in the United States. Developed by UC Irvine’s Department of Chicano/Latino Studies and offered through the Division of Continuing Education, the program equips participants with the cultural knowledge and practical skills needed to better engage Latino populations across education, healthcare, business, and community-based sectors.

Through an online course that combines short, pre-recorded lectures, curated readings, short assessments, and synchronous, online faculty-led panel discussions, participants explore select areas within three thematic pillars: (1) History, (2) Literature, Arts & Media, and (3) Contemporary Social Issues. Led by nationally recognized UC Irvine faculty, the program offers a rigorous yet accessible opportunity to build cultural competency, strengthen cross-cultural communication, and apply inclusive practices that advance equity and understanding in professional and community contexts.

Who Should Enroll

This program is designed for individuals and groups in business, education, healthcare, and other public-facing sectors whose work brings them into contact with Latino communities or who aim to enhance their service to Latino communities by expanding their knowledge of the U.S. Latino experience and cultures, and developing culturally congruent elements and skills.

Program Benefits

• Develop a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the U.S. Latino experience, including its historical, cultural, and social dimensions
• Build the skills needed to engage more effectively and authentically with Latino communities in professional settings
• Enhance your ability to deliver culturally responsive services in fields such as healthcare, education, business, and social services
• Gain practical insights that can improve outcomes for the populations you serve, including increased trust, satisfaction, and engagement
• Learn from leading faculty experts across multiple disciplines, including public health, sociology, history, and media studies

Eligibility and Requirements

A participant in the program is awarded a specialization certificate upon the successful completion of one course for 3 CEU. As CEU courses are non-credit offerings designated under the 800 series and will not offer Letter or Pass/No Pass grade options. A grade of “CE” (Continuing Education) will be issued upon satisfactory completion of all course requirements and will appear on the student’s record as confirmation of successful participation.