Critical Hmong Studies, Certificate

(Code 295-602)

For advising, contact the Department of Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.

The Critical Hmong Studies Certificate program is designed for students who have a strong interest in studying Hmong history, culture, society, language, and contemporary issues.  The certificate might appeal to students who have limited opportunity to explore academic areas beyond their major discipline, or those who interact with Hmong communities on a professional basis.  

The certificate consists of core and elective credits. Elements of the certificate would include (1) Hmong History; (2) Culture, Politics & Society; (3) Critical Race Theory (CRT); (4) Language and/or Electives. 

Minimum of 12 credits required, with at least six credits at the 300-400 level (including electives):
Core courses6
HMNG 130Hmong American Experiences in the U.S.3
HMNG/WGSS 365Intersectionality: Critical Approaches to Identity and Injustice3
Elective courses6
Social Foundations: Human Relations
Beginning Hmong I
Beginning Hmong II
Special Topics in Critical Hmong Studies
Indigenous Theory and Methodologies
Topics in American Ethnic Literature (when focused on Hmong Studies)
Variable credit options
Travel seminars focused on Hmong Studies including HMNG 341 and HMNG 342
Various courses with either Hmong or Hmong-American content or CRT or indigenous approach
Other distance learning options, in collaboration with other institutions/UW campuses when focused on Hmong Studies

Note:  Courses cannot be counted in both the major and the certificate program. 

 Program Learning Outcome

Students completing this program will be expected to meet the following learning outcomes:

  • Understand Hmong history, politics, and/or cultural transformations in the U.S.
  • Effectively articulate how the theory of intersectionality can explain contemporary Hmong identities and social issues in a comparative manner.
  • Utilize decolonizing methodologies and skills-based competency to studying and/or engaging with Hmong communities in the U.S.