Master of Arts in Latin American Studies

The Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies administers a program of language and area courses leading to an interdisciplinary master of arts degree. The MA program facilitates studies in the languages, cultures, and affairs of the region and provides training in interdisciplinary communication for three constituencies of students: those seeking to match area expertise with professional training; those proceeding to disciplinary-based doctoral work; and those for whom the degree would stand on its own.

Click here for information on how to apply to our Masters Program: Deadline is Jan. 15, 2010.

General Degree Requirements for the Master of Arts in Latin American Studies

To complete the program of MA in Latin American and Caribbean Studies students need to complete 40 hours credit. Following are the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts as specified by the graduate faculty and CLACS.

  • Required Course: 4 hours for completion of the Interdisciplinary Seminar in Latin American Studies (LAST 550). This course is specifically designed for students in the Latin American Studies M.A. program and examines the interconnections among research approaches and problems in the field of Latin American and Caribbean Studies.
  • Electives: 24 hours in 400- and 500-level courses which focus on Latin America or the Caribbean from at least three different departments or instructional units. At least 8 of these hours must be taken in one (primary) discipline.
  • Theory or Research Methods: 4 hours in 400- or 500-level course on theory or research methods appropriate to the student’s objectives and primary discipline.
  • MA Research-Writing Requirement: 4 hours for completion of  LAST 599 (“Thesis Research”).  Before registering for LAST 599, students need to choose an MA committee composed of 2 faculty members: The Advisor and instructor of LAST 599 who serves as supervisor of the research writing project and a second reader. The committee meets with the student at least one upon concluding a draft of the MA thesis or research papers for assessment and approval.
  • Language Proficiency Requirement:  Demonstration of a communicative competence in Spanish, Portuguese, or language indigenous to Latin America (excluding English) equivalent to six semesters’ of undergraduate work. This competence must cover the three skills of comprehension, oral production, and reading. Such proficiency can be demonstrated through testing by the appropriate department. Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese will be tested by the Department of Spanish, Italian and Portuguese through procedures developed by that department. Students can also demonstrate language proficiency by completion of 8 graduate hours in 400- or 500-level coursework with a grade of B or higher taught in the target language.
  • Language Training: Students may use 4 hours graduate hours at the 400-level or above for language training.
  • Maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or higher.
  • After fulfillment of these requirements, the Director of the Center certifies the successful completion of the MA program.