Explore New Directions in Politics and Public Policy Program
A new summer course from the University of Colorado Denver’s Center for New Directions in Politics and Public Policy will give students a hands-on look at how policy is shaped alongside Latino communities in Colorado and beyond.
Taught by former state senator Jesse Ulibarri, the hybrid class, Latinos in Politics and Policy welcomes graduate, upper level undergraduate and community enrollees who register by May 15, 2026.
The course, offered as PSCI 5008/4002 Topics in Political Science, focuses on preparing students to design and implement policy “with, not just for” Chicano, Latine, and Hispanic communities. With decades of experience in Colorado and nationally, Ulibarri teaches through an organizing-informed lens. Students will examine how racial equity, language justice, and political power shape policy outcomes, while also analyzing current local and state initiatives.
Designed With You In Mind
Like all of New Directions’ courses, this one is designed with working professionals in mind. This class combines in-person and remote learning. It begins with a weekend of site visits May 30 and 31st where students will engage directly with places and leaders central to the region’s Chicano and Latino political history. The remainder of the course will take place through weekly Thursday evening Zoom sessions, allowing flexibility for those balancing jobs or summer travel.
About Jesse Ulibarri
Ulibarri served in the Colorado State Senate from 2013 to 2017, before he went on to lead several national organizations that trained, supported and built the capacity of elected officials and community movements. His cross-cutting experience makes him a perfect fit to teach for the Center for New Directions, which offers an applied Master’s in Political Science focused on public, non-profit and community leadership. Almost all of New Directions courses are taught by practitioners like Ulibarri who focus on practical content for students to develop relevant tools and strategies that will enhance their work or civic involvement.
Meeting Their Moment
The Latinos in Politics and Policy course is part of New Directions’ vibrant, interdisciplinary curriculum spanning local government, policy, public admin, non-profit management, community organizing and affordable housing. Whether you’re interested in taking a single course like this one that matches your passions, a four-course certification to brush up your credentials, or an affordable Master’s degree to help you achieve your career or life goals, New Directions meets students where you’re at and is building the next generation of local leaders.
Meet Francisco Chica - New Directions Student and Community Leader