Latin American Studies

Coordinator: Associate Professor M. Matthews

The Latin American Studies minor offers an opportunity to study one of the most diverse and fascinating regions of the world. It enables students to supplement their major with coursework in two or more disciplines that explore the ways in which Latin Americans have expressed their culture and identity through language, literature and the arts. Courses in the minor investigate the collective aspirations of Latin Americans through their social and political behavior, cultural priorities and responses to community, national and international issues as well as the physical environment. With an area 2 1/2 times larger than the United States and a population nearly twice that of the United States, Latin America is a region of growing significance. Hemispheric relationships are expanding in terms of trade, immigration and cultural expression. The minor addresses Latin America as an important region of intrinsic interest, allowing students pursuing any major to expand their understanding of the history, social dynamics and cultural diversity of the area. The minor is beneficial to students interested in careers in teaching, law, health care, business, communications, the arts, nonprofits, government and other fields, and for students wishing to pursue graduate degrees with emphasis on area studies or world language.