University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Latin American, Caribbean, and U.S Latinx Studies, BA

UWM students interested in pursuing advanced knowledge about the varied cultures, histories, languages, and origins that are included within Latinx populations have three different programs to choose from, including a major and two different certificates.

UWM students in the Latin American, Caribbean, and U.S. Latinx Studies (LACUSL) major learn about the many different histories, cultures, and modern issues of Latinx peoples from all three regions - Latin America, the Caribbean, and the United States. It is among a small handful of programs nationwide to explore both Latinx communities in the U.S. as well as those in Latin America and the Caribbean; most programs focus on one or the other. Coursework spans several departments, including history, sociology, the arts, political science, anthropology, languages and literature, giving students many different lenses through which to look.

Many students choose this major because they intend to work with the Latinx population in some way. They may be going into health services, education, manufacturing, business, nonprofit work, social services, trade, or government work. Regardless of industry, they understand that the impact of globalization is growing and they recognize the increasing importance of Latin American countries and Latinx communities in the U.S. as political and economic forces.

Students more interested in the experience of Latinx communities within the United States might find our certificate in Latinx Studies well-suited to their personal and professional goals. A certificate is similar to a minor in terms of number of credits, but like the interdisciplinary LACUSL major mentioned above, it draws on classes from many different subject areas. Students can expect to take classes from history, English, Spanish, educational policy, and sociology.

Students more interested in the regions of Latin America and the Caribbean should explore the certificate in Latin American and Caribbean Studies in more detail. 

Both certificates are excellent complements to other majors both within the College of Letters & Science as well as professional degrees such as business, education, nursing or health sciences.

Numerous study abroad opportunities are available to students in any of these programs, including short-term and longer-length. Most students start planning their study abroad experience early in sophomore year for trips that take place in junior year. Popular destinations include Mexico, Cuba, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, and Chile.