Welcome to the Social Sciences Department

African-American Studies at East Los Angeles College offers a powerful examination of the historical, cultural, social, political, and artistic contributions of people of African descent in the United States and across the African Diaspora. These courses are designed for students who seek to understand the complex tapestry of the Black experience, from the foundations of ancient African civilizations to the ongoing movements for social justice and equity today.

ELAC’s African-American Studies curriculum provides a critical lens through which to analyze central issues like race, identity, class, gender, and resistance. You will engage with a rich curriculum that spans history, literature, sociology, political science, music, and the arts, all while being guided by dedicated faculty who are experts in their fields.

Learn More about African-American Studies Here

The Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) in Asian-American Studies at East Los Angeles College offers a transformative journey into the rich, complex, and vital histories, cultures, and contemporary experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. This program is designed for students who seek to understand the forces that have shaped one of the most diverse communities in the nation and, in doing so, gain a deeper understanding of American society itself.

Rooted in the heart of Los Angeles, a primary hub of Asian American life, ELAC provides an ideal learning environment where theory meets practice. Our curriculum moves beyond stereotypes to examine the realities of migration, settlement, community-building, identity, and political action. You will engage with interdisciplinary perspectives from history, sociology, literature, political science, and the arts to critically analyze the Asian American experience.

Learn More about the AAT Degree in Asian-American Studies Here

Why do prices rise? What drives innovation? How do policies on immigration, climate change, or interest rates truly affect our daily lives? Economics isn't just about money and markets—it's the science of decision-making, a powerful lens for understanding human behavior and solving the world's most pressing problems.

The Associate of Arts for Transfer (AAT) in Economics at East Los Angeles College is your first strategic investment in a high-demand career. This degree goes beyond theory, equipping you with the analytical tools to decode complex systems, predict trends, and make data-driven decisions that shape businesses, communities, and governments.

Why Build Your Foundation in Economics at ELAC?

• Transfer to a CSU or UC: This specialized degree guarantees your seamless transfer to a CSU or UC campus as a junior-level economics major. Maximize your potential and minimize your debt by completing your lower-division requirements at ELAC, all while learning from dedicated professors in small classroom settings.

• Develop a Highly Marketable Skillset: Cultivate the number one skill employers crave: quantitative reasoning. You'll graduate with a strong foundation in critical thinking, statistical analysis, and sophisticated problem-solving—skills applicable to virtually every industry.

• Learn in a Real-World Economic Laboratory: Located in the dynamic economic heart of Los Angeles, ELAC provides a front-row seat to global trade, entrepreneurship, and diverse market forces. Your classroom learning is instantly connected to real-world examples happening all around you.

• Open Doors to limitless Careers: An economics degree is incredibly versatile. It is the preferred foundation for careers in:

  • Business: Data Analysis, Consulting, Marketing, Management

  • Finance: Banking, Investment Analysis, Financial Planning

  • Law & Public Policy: Law School, Government, Urban Planning, Non-Profit Work

  • Tech & Research: Analytics, Market Research, Economic Forecasting

Your Future in Focus:
Whether you aim to launch a startup, shape public policy on climate change, analyze market trends for a Fortune 500 company, or pursue a graduate degree, it all starts with understanding the fundamentals of economics.

Ready to make a calculated decision for your success?
Turn your curiosity about how the world works into a powerful and profitable career. The ELAC Economics program is where your journey begins.

Explore the Economics AAT degree at ELAC today.

Learn More about the AAT Degree in Economics Here

Uncover the Past, Shape Your Future: A.A. in History for Transfer (AAT)

If you're driven by curiosity about the world and how it came to be, the Associate of Arts for Transfer (AAT) in History at East Los Angeles College is your first chapter toward an extraordinary future.

This isn't just about memorizing dates and facts. It's about becoming a detective of the human experience. At ELAC, you'll learn to analyze primary sources, think critically about cause and effect, and craft compelling arguments about the forces that have shaped our global community. You’ll debate the ideas of great thinkers, understand the struggles for power and justice, and connect the dots from ancient civilizations to today's headlines.

Why Choose ELAC's History Program?

• Transfer to a CSU or UC: This degree is specifically designed to provide a seamless transfer to CSU or UC campus as a junior-level history major. You'll save thousands of dollars on your general education while receiving a top-tier education right in the heart of Los Angeles.

• Learn from Passionate Experts: Our faculty are not just teachers; they are dedicated scholars and mentors who bring history to life. They are committed to your success in the classroom and beyond.

• Study in a Living Historical Archive: ELAC sits in one of the most historically and culturally rich regions in the world. Los Angeles is a living laboratory for studying immigration, civil rights, cultural exchange, and social change, making your education immediately relevant and profound.

• Develop In-Demand Skills: A history degree is a degree in critical thinking, research, writing, and communication—skills that are highly valued in any profession. You’ll graduate prepared not just for further study, but for a dynamic career.

Your Journey Starts Here:
This degree is your launchpad for diverse and impactful careers in law, education, public service, journalism, museum curation, business, and beyond.

Ready to start your story?
Become part of a legacy of scholars at East Los Angeles College. Uncover the narratives that built our world and learn how to write the next one.

Explore the History AAT degree today and turn your passion for the past into your profession for the future.

Learn More about the AAT Degree in History Here

The Associate of Arts for Transfer (AA-T) in Political Science at East Los Angeles College is your launchpad into the dynamic world of politics, government, and public service.

We are living in a time of unprecedented political engagement. From local school boards to the global stage, decisions are being made that shape our communities, our rights, and our future. Do you want to understand how it all works? Do you want to be part of the conversation, or even lead it?

At ELAC, you won't just learn about politics; you'll learn how to change them.

Why Choose ELAC's Political Science Program?

• Be Transfer-Ready: Our AA-T degree is specifically designed to provide a seamless transfer to a CSU or UC campus. Earn your degree with the confidence that you have completed the core lower-division requirements for a bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

• Learn in the Heart of a Political Hub: Located in Los Angeles, one of the most diverse and politically significant regions in the country, ELAC offers a front-row seat to real-world governance, activism, and campaign politics. Your classroom extends into the city itself.

• Expert Faculty, Personal Attention: Learn from passionate professors who are not only scholars but also experienced practitioners. They bring the realities of political strategy, international relations, and law into the classroom with a personal touch you won't find at a large university.

• Diverse Perspectives, Vibrant Debate: Engage with a student body that reflects the rich heritage of Los Angeles. Here, you'll debate, discuss, and collaborate with peers who bring a wide array of experiences and viewpoints, preparing you for the complex, multicultural world of modern politics.

• Build a Foundation for Impact: This degree equips you with the critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills essential for success in countless fields. Whether you aim to run for office, shape public policy, work in law, or lead a non-profit, ELAC will equip you with the tools needed to succeed.

What Can You Do With a Degree in Political Science?
A political science degree is a key that opens many doors. Our alumni have pursued careers as:

• Lawyers

• Policy Analysts and Legislative Aides

• Government Officials and Public Administrators

• Journalists and Political Commentators

• Campaign Managers and Political Strategists

• Advocates and Non-Profit Leaders

• Diplomats and Intelligence Analysts

Take the first step. Explore the power of ideas. Challenge the status quo. Build a future where your voice is heard.

Enroll in the AA-T in Political Science at East Los Angeles College today.

Learn More about the AAT Degree in Political Science Here

See the World Differently. Understand Why It Works: A.A. in Sociology for Transfer (AAT)

From the dynamics of our families and communities to global issues of inequality and social justice, sociology gives you the tools to analyze, understand, and impact the world around you. The Associate of Arts for Transfer (AAT) in Sociology at East Los Angeles College is your first step toward turning your curiosity about human behavior into a powerful career.

This program goes beyond textbook theories. It’s about developing your "sociological imagination," a lens to see the connections between your personal life and the larger social forces at play. You'll explore critical issues like race, class, gender, education, crime, and immigration, gaining a deeper understanding of the structures that shape our lives and opportunities.

Why Earn Your Sociology AAT at ELAC?

• Seamless Transfer to a CSU or UC: This degree is your guaranteed pathway to transfer to a CSU or UC as a junior-level sociology major. You'll complete your lower-division requirements at a fraction of the cost, all while learning from dedicated professors right here in our community.

• Study in a Social Microcosm: There is no better place to study sociology than Los Angeles. ELAC is at the crossroads of incredibly diverse cultures, communities, and social movements. Your classroom learning is directly connected to the vibrant, real-world laboratory outside our doors.

• Build Critical Skills for the Future: A sociology degree equips you with highly sought-after skills: critical thinking, complex problem-solving, data analysis, and cultural competency. These are essential for careers in law, social work, public health, education, business, marketing, and non-profit leadership.

• Learn from Passionate Advocates: Our faculty are experts and mentors who bring real-world experience into the classroom. They are committed to your growth as a critical thinker and to your success as you prepare to transfer.

Your Future in Sociology:
With this foundation, you'll be prepared to pursue a bachelor’s degree and launch a meaningful career dedicated to creating positive change. Become a social researcher, a community organizer, a policy analyst, a counselor, or a leader in any field that values a deep understanding of people and systems.

Ready to decode the world and design a better future?
Your journey to understand society and your place in it starts at East Los Angeles College.

Explore the Sociology AAT degree today and learn to see—and change—the world around you.

Learn More about the AAT Degree in Sociology Here

Your Journey to Change Lives Starts in the Heart of Our Community.

Do you feel a calling to uplift others? Do you see the strength in our communities and believe you can help empower them to thrive? The Associate of Arts for Transfer (AAT) in Social Work and Human Services at East Los Angeles College is your first, powerful step toward a meaningful career as a force for good.

This isn’t just a degree—it’s the foundation for your future as a social worker, mental health advocate, community organizer, or non-profit leader. Our program is designed for students like you: passionate, compassionate, and ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals, families, and the vibrant, diverse fabric of Los Angeles.

Why Choose ELAC’s Social Work and Human Services Program?

• Be the Change, Here and Now: Our curriculum connects classroom theory to real-world practice. You’ll explore the principles of social justice, human behavior, and social welfare systems while engaging with the very communities we serve. Your education is rooted in the cultural and social dynamics of East LA, giving you an unparalleled, authentic perspective.

• A Direct Path to Your Bachelor’s Degree: This degree is your launchpad. As an Associate of Arts for Transfer (AAT), you are guaranteed admission to a CSU or UC campus with junior standing, putting you on a seamless track to complete your Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) or a related field.

• Learn from Advocates and Leaders: Our faculty aren’t just teachers—they are experienced practitioners and active researchers who bring their frontline experience into the classroom. They mentor you, guide you, and show you what it truly means to serve.

• A Community of Compassion: At ELAC, you’ll find your people. Join a supportive cohort of students who share your drive and values. Through class projects, student clubs, and community events, you’ll build a network of future change-makers.

What You Will Learn:

• The historical and ethical foundations of social work and human services.

• The skills to work effectively with diverse populations across the human lifespan.

• An understanding of social policies, social justice issues, and systemic challenges.

• Critical thinking and communication skills essential for advocacy and counseling.

Build a Career Built on Purpose:
Graduate ready to continue your education and pursue rewarding roles such as:

• Social Worker (requires BSW/MSW)

• Mental Health Counselor

• Community Health Worker

• Non-Profit Program Coordinator

• Youth Advocate

• Case Manager

Take the first step. Explore the Social Work and Human Services AAT degree today.

Learn More about the AAT Degree in Social Work and Human Services Here

Unlock the Power of Perspective with an AA-T in Women and Gender Studies at East Los Angeles College

Have you ever looked at the world and asked, "Why is it this way?" Do you want to understand the forces that shape our identities, our communities, and our systems of power? The Associate of Arts for Transfer in Women and Gender Studies at East Los Angeles College is your first step toward answering these questions and turning your passion for justice into a powerful career.

This isn't just a degree—it's a journey. You will explore the rich, complex, and often untold stories of women, LGBTQ+ communities, and people of color. You'll dive into history, literature, politics, and sociology through a critical lens, challenging assumptions and building a deeper understanding of inequality and empowerment.

Why Choose ELAC for Your Women and Gender Studies Degree?

• A Legacy of Empowerment: Located in the heart of a vibrant and diverse community, ELAC is a place where social justice isn't just a topic—it's a lived experience. Our program is built on a foundation of intersectionality, ensuring your education reflects the real, multifaceted world we live in.

• Seamless Transfer: This degree is designed for your success. As an Associate of Arts for Transfer (AA-T), you are guaranteed admission to a CSU or UC campus to complete your bachelor's degree. Your path to a four-year university and beyond is clear and supported.

• Learn from Leaders: Our faculty are committed scholars and activists who bring real-world experience into the classroom. They are mentors who will challenge you, support you, and connect you to a powerful network of change-makers.

• A Classroom Without Walls: At ELAC, your education extends beyond textbooks. Engage with community organizations, participate in local activism, and attend inspiring events and lectures that bring theory to life.

What Will You Explore?

• The history of feminist movements and social justice struggles.

• The intersections of gender, race, class, sexuality, and ability.

• Global perspectives on gender and human rights.

• The representation of gender in media, film, and literature.

• Feminist theories and philosophies that have shaped our world.

Build a Future That Makes a Difference

A foundation in Women and Gender Studies opens doors to countless fields where critical thinking and cultural competency are essential. Graduates pursue impactful careers in:

• Law & Public Policy

• Social Work & Non-Profit Leadership

• Education & Counseling

• Public Health & Advocacy

• Journalism & Media

• Politics & Community Organizing

Your Journey Starts at ELAC. Are you Ready?

Learn More about the AAT Degree in Women and Gender Studies Here