Investigate why Frida Kahlo’s paintings are so enduringly popular. Dive into the world of Latin American soccer. Separate fact from fiction in the biography of Ernesto “Che” Guevara. Sample popular dishes in countries across Latin America.
The Latin American Studies program offers an in-depth look at the richness and diversity of a vast area and its people. Whether pre–Columbian art, the striking wonder of the Amazon rainforest, or the history of colonialism tugs at your heartstrings, you’ll be forever changed by your newfound knowledge.
Why Study Latin America at the UO?
“We have on our campus some of the most renowned experts in their fields related to Latin America: Anthropology, political science, literature, history, journalism and other fields. It’s a rich and solid group of faculty to offer our students."
“My invitation is for students to join us in this learning adventure from which they will come out much more informed about one of the most fascinating, exciting, and interesting regions of the world.”
—Carlos Aguirre, Professor, History
How Latin American Studies Prepares You After College
Due to its inherently interdisciplinary training, our undergraduate major in Latin American studies provides a thorough grounding in the languages, history, geography, and some of the central cultural and socioeconomic issues at stake in the region. The National Association of Colleges and Employers identifies key career readiness skills that employers are looking for. The Latin American Studies Program offers students career competencies skills, such as:
- Cross-cultural communication skills
- Data collection and analysis through various communication methods
- Advocating for social justice, equitable practices, and empowerment for historically underrepresented communities
- Collaboration with others to develop projects
- Communicating complex ideas and concepts clearly and concisely
How Latin American Studies Enriches Your Academic Experience
“Obtaining my degree in Latin American studies had great benefits for me. Firstly, it allowed me to learn the importance of inclusive and trauma-informed public health strategies for our Latinx community here in Lane County. This was very important during my involvement in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, through my LAS classes, I became interested in later pursuing a master’s degree so I could study the other side of the War on Drugs at the U.S. and México Border.”
—Carolina Arredondo Sanchez Lira, Latin American Studies, BA, 2017
Our Degree Programs
Latin American studies provides students the flexibility to design a major or minor that combines courses from several departments across campus. LAS works closely with other units, such as the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies, the Americas in a Globalized World Initiative, the Department of Romance Languages, and the Department of Global Studies.
Learn from Experts in the Field
The Latin American Studies Program has faculty whose expertise varies throughout the university, including environmental studies, music, journalism and communication, global studies—and more. Students work with faculty in the program and the Center for Latino and Latin American Studies.
Get Real-world Experience
Take advantage of study abroad programs where you’ll travel to Costa Rica, Ecuador, Bolivia, Mexico, or other exciting places to sharpen your language skills and become familiar with new cultures.
In Eugene, you can volunteer for a variety of organizations such as Centro Latino Americano, a local bilingual multicultural agency dedicated to helping the Latino community, or become active with the Center for Latino/a & Latin American Studies. UO students have also worked with the local school districts to mentor youth. Others have volunteered at Siempre Amigos, which provides health services to survivors of torture and political violence.
Scholarships and Funding
Students in the Latin American Studies program can seek funding through the College of Arts and Sciences, which awards various scholarships to both incoming students and those who are already attending the UO.
Academic Support
Students can seek support from advisors in Tykeson Hall for help understanding their major or minor requirements, planning their course of study, exploring study abroad opportunities, and more.
