Interdisciplinary Curricula: Latin American Studies

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The interdisciplinary Latin American Studies curriculum contains courses concerning Latin America in modern languages and literature, anthropology, history and economics, and other subjects. These courses broaden students’ undergraduate education, increasing and enhancing employment opportunities. The local and global connections among the countries of the Americas are constantly increasing and evolving. Latin American Studies provides an interdisciplinary opportunity to focus on our hemisphere. Language expertise is an important element in this area studies program

The Latin American Studies curriculum combines training in various disciplines, encouraging students to begin to comprehend this very different and important part of the world. Faculty member involved with this curriculum have spent substantial time in Latin America and/or have conducted considerable research in topics related to the various countries, cultures and environments.

Language Competence. Students must demonstrate proficiency in Spanish beyond at the intermediate level. Proficiency may be demonstrated either by examination or by completing SPA 305 or 306 with a grade of at least “B.” To be admitted to the program, students must complete SPA 101/102.

For complete information about Latin American Studies, visit the coordinator at 216 Little Hall, phone (207) 581-2088 or contact Prof. Kathleen March at kathleen_march@umit.maine.edu.

Social Sciences and Literature

Students are required to take at least one course in three of the following four areas:

Anthropology

ANT 453 - People and Cultures of Mesoamerica Credits: 3
ANT 459 - Peoples and Cultures of South America Credits: 3
ANT 467 - Peasant Studies Credits: 3
ANT 480 - South American Prehistory Credits: 3
Other ANT courses may be substitued for the above with approval of program coordinator.

Economics

Courses at 300 level or above

History

HTY 109 - Introduction to Latin America Credits: 3

Literature

SPA 308 - Readings in Spanish American Literature Credits: 3

Other 400 level courses in Spanish

Students may select any other courses in Latin American Literature, Civilization, Service-Learning, or Translation.

Additional courses in Anthropology, History, Art History, Spanish and Portuguese language (currently through the Critical Languages Program) are recommended.

Study Abroad is highly encouraged. Study programs or study tours offer options for work in Mexico, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Honduras, or Spain. Other sites may be approved with consultation.