Program Requirements

courtyard Latin American Studies is an integrated interdisciplinary program that explores the cultural heritage of Mesoamerica, the Caribbean, and the South American continent. This multidisciplinary approach is complemented by a concentration in a specific discipline. Competence in Spanish (or another appropriate language with the approval of the administering committee) is required, and it is recommended that students participate in a study-away program in Latin America. Upon their return, students who study away should consider an independent study course to take advantage of their recent educational experience.

Requirements for the Minor in Latin American Studies

The minor consists of at least one course at Bowdoin beyond the intermediate level in Spanish, History 255 (Modern Latin American History), and three additional courses, two of which must be outside the student's major department. Independent studies can meet requirements for the minor only with the approval by the Latin American Studies Committee of a written prospectus of the independent study.

Requirements for the Major in Latin American Studies

The major consists of nine courses, including the following:

1) One of the following: LAM 207, Latin American Cultures; LAM 209, Introduction to Hispanic Studies: Poetry and Theater; or LAM 210, Introduction to Hispanic Studies: Essay and Narrative.

2) Two of the following courses:
a. History 252, Colonial Latin America; or History 255 Modern Latin America
b. A 200-level course in Anthropology or Sociology focused on Latin America

3) A concentration of four additional courses centered on a particular geographic region (Andean region, Caribbean, Mesoamerica, Southern Cone, etc.) or theme (colonization, cultural hybridity, indigenous cultures, globalization, development issues, gender relations, etc.) The four-course concentration will be selected by each major in consultation with the faculty in Latin American Studies. The courses for the concentration should be primarily at the 200- or 300-level.

4) An elective course in Latin American Studies, outside of the student's area of concentration.

5) In the senior year, each major will have the option of completing:
a) a one or two-semester independent study or honors thesis, or
b) a 300-level seminar approved for Latin American Studies credit.

A maximum of three courses from Bowdoin-approved off-campus study programs may count toward the major. Courses in which D grades are received will not count toward the major.

Please visit the courses page to see what is currently being offered.