Department Chair
Amber Day
At a Glance
What You’ll Learn:
- A greater understanding of the peoples and societies of the Western Hemisphere
What You’ll Do:
- Explore cultural, social, political, and economic dynamics shaping Latin American and Latina/Latino communities
Where You’ll Go:
- Career fields such as DEIB consulting, human resource management, teaching, law, journalism, advocacy, and counseling settings
Program Highlights
The Latin American and Latina/Latino Studies minor takes you on an interdisciplinary journey through the rich cultural, historical, linguistic, and experiential landscapes of Latin America and the Latina/Latino diaspora. Combining academic coursework, hands-on learning, and cultural immersion, this program equips you with a deep and nuanced understanding of the complexities and contributions of these diverse communities.
Our multidisciplinary curriculum spans fields such as history, literature, sociology, anthropology, political science, art, and music. Courses cover a wide array of topics, including the history and civilizations of Latin America, colonialism and its aftermath, immigration and diaspora studies, literary and cultural expressions, social movements, and pressing contemporary issues.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese is a fundamental component of the program, enabling students to engage directly with primary sources, literary texts, films, and oral histories in their original languages. Language courses offered as part of the program focus on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as cultural competency and cross-cultural communication.
Sample Courses
Our curriculum consists of engaging coursework that’s designed to prepare you for your future career. Just a few sample courses include:
U.S. Latin American Relations 1820 to Present
HIS 369
Latin American Studies
LCS 380
Studies in International Literature
LCS 361
Politics of Developing Countries
POLS 481