Latin American Studies Minor

Latin American studies focuses on the diverse and connected regions, societies, and cultures of Latin America. Students find that combining this minor with a major in another discipline is particularly attractive to employers. Latin American studies enhances a major in Spanish or anthropology for a career in teaching or human rights work; a major in communication for a career in journalism; and a major in business for a career in the U.S. Foreign Service, other government agencies, or international commerce.

This minor has been designated as a "Workforce-Ready Minor," meaning it is aligned with at least one of Virginia's high-demand career fields and includes career-relevant assignments as well as the opportunity to earn academic credit through an internship. 

Policies

Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor and students must complete all coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.00. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.

Banner Code: LAS

Minor Requirements

Total credits: 15

Students should be aware of the specific policies associated with this program, located on the Admissions & Policies tab.

Core Courses

Language Proficiency

Students minoring in Latin American studies must demonstrate intermediate proficiency in reading, speaking, or writing knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese by placement exam or by achieving a minimum grade of 2.00 in a 202, or higher-level course taught in the language. Upper-level Latin American literature or culture courses taught in Spanish or Portuguese may be used to satisfy the electives requirement.

Electives and Internship

Select 12 credits of relevant coursework, including internships. Students choose from courses offered by at least three different departments in consultation with the minor director.