About

The Latin American region is home to more than 600 million people, whose recorded histories span millennia. More than 500 languages survive throughout the region, where millions today speak not only Spanish and Portuguese but Guaraní, K’iche’ and other Maya languages, Nahuatl, and Quechua. Spain colonized the American southwest (and elsewhere) and ever-larger numbers of Americans are of Latin American descent. Latin American nations are among the most important trading partners for the United States of America. Economic and cultural exchange is constant, political relations enduring. Yet many in the U.S. remain unaware of our nation’s deep historical connections to Mexico, the Spanish-speaking Caribbean, and many other parts of this large, complex region.

The Minor in Latin American Studies consists of 15 hours of interdisciplinary study. Students examine the histories, cultures, economies, societies, and political institutions of Latin American nations, broadly defined to include the Caribbean and the history and cultures of Latinos in the U.S. To complete the minor, students must take 15 semester hours (at least 9 advanced hours) of coursework in two or more disciplines. Approved courses can be found across the University.

In addition to the minor, the Latin American Studies Program promotes activities such as speakers, conferences, films, and cultural events relating to Latin America for students, faculty, and the Houston community as well as encouraging participation in study abroad programs for students and faculty. To that end, while the program has no language requirement, we strongly encourage Spanish-language study (and students with majors in CLASS fulfilling the language requirement should consider doing so in Spanish). Come find out more about our interdisciplinary major and how you can apply it to your academic and career goals!