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Latin American Studies

Overview

Programs in Latin American studies teach people about the history, politics, and culture of Latin America and the Caribbean region.

Latin American studies programs include topics such as:

Concentrations

Students in this major may be able to specialize in Caribbean studies.

Schools

Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in Latin American studies. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree students can transfer to a college or university for further study.

Many programs in Latin American studies are interdisciplinary studies, liberal studies, and humanities. In addition, most programs encourage students to double major in another field, such as business, social science, or journalism.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in Latin American studies. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study. Many colleges and universities offer interdisciplinary bachelor's degrees in Latin American studies. Interdisciplinary programs combine courses from several college departments. In Latin American studies it may be history, international relations, and humanities.

Many universities offer graduate degrees in Latin American studies. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers to Consider

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree, good grades, and good test scores. Most programs also require that you speak, read, write, and understand at least one second language (such as Spanish, French, or Portuguese) at an advanced level.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate programs in Latin American studies typically require:

Things to Know

Some programs only focus on select Latin American countries and languages.

You may be required or encouraged to spend some time living, working, or studying in Latin America. This gives you an immersion experience and the chance to practice your language skills with native speakers.

Schools

King-Snohomish Area

Northwest University

University of Washington - Seattle

Spokane Area

Eastern Washington University

Gonzaga University

Tacoma Area

Pacific Lutheran University

Tri-Cities Area

Columbia Basin College

West Side Area

Evergreen State College, The