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Latin American Studies

Gain a deep understanding of the historical, political, social, and cultural development of Latin America and the Caribbean. Minor in Latin American Studies to explore a rich cultural heritage.

Program Snapshot

Degree Type

Minor

Program Type

Minor

Credit Hours

20

Campus

Salem

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Department Info
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Our Latin American Studies Minor

Gain a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and language in Latin America. Learn more about movements, developments, and changes to gain a cross-cultural competence. These skills help students build careers in international relations, non-profit work, business, and more. Learn more about our program and how students can expand their experience.

Why choose a Latin American Studies minor at Willamette? 

  • Variety of course options. We recognize the importance of course options. Students can explore a variety of topics through culture, history, language, and literature. Take a course on Latin American Cinema or learn about the Anthropology of Mexico and Ecuador.
  • Embrace global education. Students interested in cultures and societies can study abroad. Willamette offers a variety of programs across Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. Consider studying in countries such as Mexico, Brazil, Chile, or Puerto Rico.
  • Get involved. Consider joining or starting a student club. Our current groups include Spanish Club, Alianza, and Multicultural Book Club. Students can also consider internship options to apply their knowledge to benefit the community.

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Do you have questions about the Latin American Studies program at Willamette? Fill out this form and we'll get in touch!

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Our Faculty

Our professors have published works, conducted research, and earned awards. They bring a variety of skills and expertise to the table. Connect with them one-on-one to discuss complex topics related to the region.
Maria Blanco Arnejo teaching a class at a white board.

Curriculum

Take advanced courses in several academic fields that sharpen your critical thinking skills and Spanish skills. You’ll also have access to volunteer and research projects in the local Latine community. Our curriculum embraces a cross-discipline experience that focuses on hands-on learning. The rapid growth of the Latinx population in the U.S. showcases the need for trained professionals with a knowledge of the Latin American region.

  • ANTH 235 Cultures of Mexico and Ecuador

    Dive into the cultures of Mexico and Ecuador, including experiences from Mexican-Americans. Discuss topics related to ethnicity, gender, class, religion, healing, immigration, and politics from a first person account.

  • SPAN 431 Contemporary Latin American Novel and Short Story

    Explore the prose fiction writers of Latin America in the Spanish language. Review works from Gallegos, Alegría, García Marquéz, Carpentier, Asturias, Borges, Quiroga, and Cortázar.

Program Requirements

Students pursuing a Latin American Studies minor will need to complete 20 semester hours of courses. These courses must be comprised of 12 semester hours from Society and Culture, four semester hours from Spanish Language and Literature, and an additional four semester hours from Society and Culture or from Language and Literature.

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Admissions Information

Our Latin American Studies minor is open to first-year students, transfer students, and international students. Learn more about Willamette’s undergraduate admissions process to get started.

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FAQs

Latin American Studies is an academic field dedicated to the study of Latin America, encompassing its culture, history, politics, economics, and society. This field helps provide a deeper understanding of countries in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

This field is comprised of a variety of academic subjects. Some of the key components include:

  • History and Political Science: The field examines the historical development of Latin American countries. It includes pre-Columbian civilizations, colonization, independence movements, and modern political systems and movements.
  • Culture and Society: This aspect explores the rich cultural heritage, including language, tradition, art, music, and literature. It also looks at social structures, identities, and roles.
  • Economics and Development: Scholars analyze economic systems, development issues, and the impact of globalization and trade on the region.

A degree leads to a variety of career paths across multiple sectors. Here are some potential career options:

  • Professor/Researcher: Teach and conduct research on Latin American topics in higher education or research institutions.
  • K-12 Education: Teach social studies, history, or Spanish in schools.
  • Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: Represent your country in Latin America, working in embassies or consulates.
  • Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to Latin American affairs for government agencies.
  • Development Worker: Work with organizations that focus on development projects in Latin American countries.
  • Program Coordinator: Manage programs related to human rights, environmental issues, education, or health in Latin America.
  • Advocacy Specialist: Work on campaigns to address social justice issues affecting Latin American communities.
  • Business Consultant: Advise companies on how to enter or expand in Latin American markets.
  • Trade Specialist: Handle trade and investment between Latin American countries and other regions.
  • Journalist/Correspondent: Report on Latin American news and events for newspapers, magazines, or television networks.
  • Content Writer/Editor: Write and edit content related to Latin American culture, politics, or history.
  • Translator/Interpreter: Provide translation and interpretation services for businesses, agencies, or organizations.
  • Travel Consultant: Design travel plans and experiences for clients interested in visiting Latin America.
  • Cultural Heritage Manager: Work in museums or cultural centers to promote and preserve Latin American heritage.

A degree equips you with valuable skills, including:

  • Language Proficiency: Many programs emphasize learning Spanish.
  • Cultural Competence: Understanding diverse cultures and social dynamics.
  • Analytical Skills: Conducting research and analyzing complex issues.
  • Communication Skills: Writing and presenting information clearly and effectively.

These skills can help you find roles that require cultural awareness, language skills, and an understanding of global dynamics. Students can excel in a variety of fields, including nonprofit, education, health, law, and translation.

As a liberal arts university, we believe that studying across different subjects is a great way to develop a well-rounded skill set. We offer a variety of programs and majors to help prepare students for a career that utilizes cultural skills. It depends on your interests, but students might consider studying subjects such as:

However, it ultimately depends on your goals, interests, and passions. We offer academic advisors to help you tailor your education to your aspirations. Students can also consider an individualized major in Latin American Studies. Explore our programs to find a combination that works for you.

Absolutely! We offer plenty of ways to study abroad. Students can consider studying in countries such as:

  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Ecuador
  • Mexico
  • Puerto Rico
  • Uruguay

Willamette University

Latin American Studies