The Latin American studies program introduces students to an interdisciplinary and intercultural study of the hispanic world. The focus is on the contemporary importance of the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries in the global community and their interaction with the United States from a political, social, historical, and economic perspective. Recognition is given to the hispanic social and cultural presence in the United States, where one in every 12 Americans is of Latino origin. Courses from political science, history, anthropology, art, literature, sociology, and other areas may be used for the major or minor.

Majors in Latin American studies go on to law school, graduate school, community and social work, and various levels of government service.

Latin American studies program directors: Barbara Younoszai, Spanish, and Andrea Bell, Spanish.