A Critical Race Analysis of Black and Hispanic Female Graduate Students Enrollment Trends from 2012 to 2021

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  In Roundtable Session: Identities at the Intersection Matter in Accessing Higher Education (Table 12)

Abstract

This paper utilizes Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Latino Critical Theory (LatCrit) to analyze graduate enrollment trends among Black and Hispanic female students from 2012 to 2021. Drawing on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), it explores the enrollment patterns of these groups compared to their white counterparts and examines potential school reforms to mitigate racial and ethnic discrimination in graduate education. Findings indicate a significant increase in Hispanic women's graduate enrollment, especially at UCLA, whereas Black women's growth remains modest. Despite some progress, the persistent underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic female students underscores the need for sustained efforts to address educational inequalities through an intersectional lens.

Author

• Shuhan Ai, University of California - Los Angeles