Latin American and Caribbean Studies

Latin American and Caribbean Studies is an interdisciplinary program that offers students the opportunity to learn about the history, culture, politics, society, and economics of the region and the region's relations with the United States. In the context of a growing and dynamic Caribbean and Latin American population in New York City, the program enables students to seek knowledge and an understanding of the origins of these peoples and their settlement in this country.

The specialization in Latin American and Caribbean Studies as a major leading to a BA degree consists of 36 credits: 24 core credits for the major and 12 credits for the minor. The core courses for the major are drawn from the social sciences, the humanities and the arts. Students select courses for the major and minor components in consultation with the program's director or with a member of the Latin American and Caribbean Studies Committee serving as an advisor.

The interdisciplinary specialization of the major, combined with the minor's emphasis on a traditional discipline, serves the program's graduates well, whether they choose to seek employment in public or private organizations, to pursue a professional degree, or go on for a graduate degree in the social sciences or humanities.

Internships The program arranges internships for LACS Majors to work with organizations that promote Latin American and Caribbean advocacy in New York City and abroad. During internships, students are expected to enroll in LACS 330 which can be used to satisfy core course requirements toward the major.

Major The major requires 24 credits, of which 21credits come from courses focusing on Latin American and Caribbean topics (no more than 6 credits may be drawn from any one participating department or program) and 6 credits from LACS 434 (Seminar in LACS).

Minor The 12-credit minor, chosen by the student in consultation with the LACS director, is taken in a department that is a participant in the program or in one that is relevant to the student's academic or career goals. The purpose of the minor is to complement the major's broad interdisciplinary area coverage by providing exposure to the focus and tools of a traditional academic discipline.

Language Requirement Latin American and Caribbean Studies majors are required to demonstrate a reading knowledge of Spanish, Portuguese, or French.

COURSE LISTINGS

LACS 330 Field Course to Latin America and the Caribbean 3 cr. Research paper topic chosen before leaving; then intensive, tightly structured on-site observation and investigation.

LACS 434 Seminar in Latin American and Caribbean Studies 3 cr. Open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have completed at least 18 credits in LACS or have the instructor's permission. Interdisciplinary reading, research, and discussion of selected topics involving cultural, economic, political, and social problems. Research paper required. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 cr.

COURSES THAT QUALIFY FOR THE MAJOR

View Hunter College Catalogue for full listing: http://www.hunter.cuny.edu