Community colleges: ethnic studies.
The passage of AB 3310 will significantly influence the curriculum requirements for community colleges by formally incorporating ethnic studies. Starting from the 2023-2024 academic year, it will also necessitate that students complete at least one three-unit course in ethnic studies as a criterion for acquiring an associate degree. This would not lead to an increase in unit requirements for the degrees, thus maintaining the current structure while adding a critical perspective to the education offered at these institutions. Furthermore, the bill mandates collaboration with the academic senate to facilitate the development of such courses, ensuring stakeholder involvement in crafting appropriate content.
AB 3310, introduced by Assembly Member Muratsuchi, is a legislative bill aimed at enhancing the educational framework within California's community college system by mandating the introduction of ethnic studies courses. Commencing with the 2021-2022 academic year, the bill requires that each community college district in California offer ethnic studies courses across all its campuses. The legislation is designed to ensure that the units earned through these courses can be transferred to fulfill baccalaureate degree requirements and, where applicable, meet the ethnic studies graduation prerequisites set by the California State University.
While the bill primarily aims to diversify and enrich the educational landscape, it has potential points of contention regarding its implementation and cost. Since it introduces new duties for community colleges, it constitutes a state-mandated local program, which raises questions about funding and resource allocation. There might be concerns from community colleges regarding whether the state will adequately fund these mandates, as the bill outlines a reimbursement mechanism for any related costs identified by the Commission on State Mandates. Therefore, the financial implications could become a significant discussion point among stakeholders.