Latin American and Latino Studies
Welcome to the Latin American and Latino Studies program (LALS) at Purdue University. LALS is an interdisciplinary program that brings together the study of Latin America, Latino communities in the U.S. and the Caribbean. In so doing, students are able to engage the similarities and differences between the histories, cultures, social institutions and political systems in countries throughout the Americas and in the Caribbean island-nations. In addition, students study the history and influence of European colonization, slavery, migration, cultural and economic trade, transnationality, and globalization on the region. You can complete a 15-credit minor that will internationalize your course of study and enhance potential career objectives.This cross-territorial, interdisciplinary approach is what makes LALS so exciting!
LALS works closely with other academic departments and programs on campus, in addition to the Latino Cultural Center. Through cooperative efforts, we hope to offer a rich variety of courses, academic and cultural events that center specific issues pertinent to Latin American, Latino and Caribbean interests. The LALS program is located in the College of Liberal Arts with affiliated faculty in the departments of Anthropology, English, Languages & Cultures, History and Political Science.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Latin American and Latino Studies (LALS)?
- Latin American and Latino Studies is a new interdisciplinary program in the College of Liberal Arts. Many universities have discrete, separate programs in either Latin American or Latino Studies. However, this innovative interdisciplinary program brings together both areas of study in one curricular offering. LALS provides a way for students to contemplate transnational connections and to approach the study of Latin American and Latino societies and cultures from a variety of methodological and disciplinary approaches.
- How do I become a minor?
- It is very easy! Simply speak with your current academic advisor about adding LALS as a complimentary minor to your major area of concentration.
- What if I am not in the College of Liberal Arts? Can I still have a minor in Latin American and Latino Studies?
- Definitely! The minor in Latin American and Latino Studies is open to all Purdue University undergraduate students who elect to expand the breadth of their knowledge regarding Latin American and US Latino cultures.
- Are there opportunities for study abroad?
- Yes. As do all Purdue University students, minors in LALS will have an array of study abroad options that can satisfy required courses for the minor. The program will offer integrated study abroad options that are a part of courses that will be developed specifically for LALS.