The Latin American studies program offers a major and a concentration with an interdisciplinary and cross-cultural approach that investigates the profound geographic variations, differing economic resources, and the intermingling of multiple racial, ethnic, and cultural groups that have yielded complex and diverse societies in the Caribbean and in North, Central, and South America. The major requires three advanced-level courses in Spanish, including one focusing on Spain. The concentration does not require any coursework in Spanish, and focuses on Latin American and the Latinx U.S.
Typical First-Year Schedule
Fall
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- SPAN 111-250/251* or OLE Core/Elective
- HIST 126, HIST 193, PSCI 257, PSCI 264, SOAN 237, RACE 121 (or SOAN 264) or OLE Core/Elective**
- OLE Core/Elective
january term
- HIST 189, RACE 121 or OLE Core/Elective**
Spring
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- SPAN 112-250/251* or OLE Core/Elective
- HIST 126, HIST 193, PSCI 257, PSCI 264, SOAN 237, RACE 121 (or SOAN 264) or OLE Core/Elective**
- OLE Core/Elective
Additional Information
*All students taking Spanish must complete the online Spanish survey/placement exam, including students with no previous Spanish experience, who will answer a simple, one-question survey.
**HIST 126, HIST 193, PSCI 257, PSCI 264, and SOAN 237 all count as core or elective courses for the major and concentration. RACE 121 (or SOAN 264, choose one only) and HIST 189 count as electives for the major and concentration.
Please see the list available here for pre-approved LAS courses for the 2023-24 academic year.
For Semester I, transfer students are advised to take an appropriate level Spanish course and choose one of the approved Latin American Studies electives. Incoming juniors or seniors should determine when the capstone, LAMST 333, will be offered and register for it when available.
CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS COURSEWORK
- Not applicable.
Placement
- Spanish placement will help potential majors know where to begin their language courses, some of which are required for the Latin American Studies major.
Informational Events
Nothing at this time.