Course Overview

The Latin American Studies program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the cultures, histories, politics, and societies of Latin America. Housed within the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, the program aims to equip students with critical analytical skills and deep regional knowledge through coursework in history, anthropology, political science, and literature. A unique feature is the emphasis on language proficiency, with opportunities to study Spanish, Portuguese, and indigenous languages.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse careers in international relations, education, non-profit organizations, government, and business. The program fosters skills in cross-cultural communication and regional expertise, making graduates competitive for roles that require knowledge of Latin American contexts.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program is supported by faculty from various departments, including notable scholars in Latin American history and anthropology. Specific names and titles are available through the university's Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies directory.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to extensive library resources, including one of the largest collections of Latin American materials in the Midwest. The university also maintains partnerships with institutions in Latin America, offering study abroad and research opportunities in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Peru.