Bachelor of Arts - Modern Languages and Literatures - Latin American and Latino/Latina Studies

The Latin American and Latino Studies (LALS) major provides students interested in Latin American and Latino history, culture, and language with valuable interdisciplinary skills. Because this is an interdisciplinary program, students will enroll in courses in Modern Languages & Literatures and History & Philosophy. Students may also take courses with relevant content from other departments such as Sociology & Anthropology, Political Science, and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. The LALS major complements other fields of study: health care, government, agriculture, engineering, history, literature, political science, sociology, international business, and more. The major strengthens the skill-sets of students who wish to become more competitive in the Spanish-speaking job market, both in Latin America and in the United States. A major in LALS will prepare students for the close relationship developing between Latin American and the United States in trade agreements, the growing number of immigrant laborers, and the expansion of Latino communities in the United States with significant political and economic power.

The equivalent of four semesters of Spanish language is required. Students with prior experience in Spanish language or heritage speakers may have some requirements waived. Students interested in the LALS major should consult with LALS faculty in the Department of Modern Languages & Literatures immediately upon their decision to fulfill the major so that they can ascertain the language requirements that are appropriate for them.