Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor

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Explore the Vibrant Cultures and Rich Histories of Latin America and the Caribbean

The Latin American and Caribbean Studies minor offers a comprehensive approach to understanding the region through courses spanning literature, history, politics, geography, and sociology. Designed to provide a multidimensional perspective, the minor consists of 18 credits, starting with LACS 0101 - Introduction to Latin American and Caribbean Studies. Students must also complete courses across three categories: Literature, Languages and the Fine Arts; History and Culture; and Social Sciences. In addition, LACS 0301 - Seminar in Latin American and Caribbean Studies can be taken, with its topic varying each semester.

To fulfill the minor, students are required to achieve intermediate-level proficiency in a relevant language (Spanish, French, or Portuguese) by the start of their senior year, which can be demonstrated through completion of fourth-semester language courses or equivalent experience. Additionally, up to six credits of LACS 0399 - Independent Study may count toward the minor, with additional course options available upon approval from the program advisor.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses - 18 credits
  • Achieve language proficiency in Spanish, French, or Portuguese
  • Engage in hands-on learning with seminars and independent study
  • Gain a multidisciplinary perspective on global issues
  • Open doors to careers in international relations, business, and more

Course Requirements

Requirements for the Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor - 18 Credits

Consisting of 18 credits, this minor is designed to incorporate perspectives from a wide range of disciplines such as literature, history, women's studies, geography, politics and sociology. Students will take LACS 0101LACS 0101 - Introduction to Latin American and Caribbean Studies and at least one course from each of the three categories listed below. LACS 0301 - Seminar in Latin American and Caribbean Studies can be fulfilled by arrangement when not schedules.  The category in which LACS 301is counted will depend on its topic in a given semester. A maximum of six credits in LACS 0399 - Independent Study in Latin America and Caribbean Studies can be taken to fulfill the Latin American and Caribbean Studies minor requirements.  Additional courses may also be used to fulfill the requirement in a category with approval of the Latin American and Caribbean Studies advisor.

Proficiency in Spanish, French or Portuguese should be an important goal for those intending to work or to pursue advanced study in an area related to Latin America. For the purpose of this minor students are required, prior to the beginning of the senior year, to attain intermediate-level competency in Spanish, French or Portuguese as judged by successful completion of the fourth semester language study or equivalent experience.

For advising please see Professor Brain Conz (bconz@westfield.ma.edu) in the department of Geography, Planning and Sustainability or Professor Gabrial Aquino (gaquino@westfield.ma.edu) in the department of Sociology. More information about the minor can be found at www.westfield.ma.edu/sociology/LAS/.

Core Course Requirements - 3 credits

 

Literature, Languages and the Fine Arts - 3-6 Credits

Choose at least one from the following:

History and Culture - 3-6 Credits

Choose at least one from the following:

Social Sciences - 3-6 Credits

Choose at least one from the following:

Seminar Course - 3 credits

 

Note:

* Course sections and additional courses not listed require approval of the Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor advisor.

What Can You Do with a Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor?

A Latin American and Caribbean Studies minor opens up diverse career opportunities and enriches your understanding of the region's culture, history, and global impact. With this minor, you can pursue careers in:

  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Foreign Language Educator
  • Foreign Service Officer
  • Human Rights Advocate
  • International Business Manager
  • International Development Specialist
  • Journalist or Foreign Correspondent
  • Nonprofit Program Coordinator
  • Tourism Manager
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Broaden Your Perspective and Build Your Future

At Westfield State University, the Department of Sociology, Hispanic, Liberal, and Interdisciplinary Studies offers a transformative educational experience that prepares you for a successful career. You'll explore cultural frameworks, social structures, and global issues while developing communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. With hands-on learning, internships, and small class sizes, you'll receive personalized attention from expert faculty who are committed to supporting your academic and professional goals.

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Latin American and Caribbean Studies Minor