Latin American studies (LAST) is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide an integrated view of Mesoamerica, South America, and the Caribbean. This interdisciplinary approach is complemented by concentration in a specific department. The purpose of the concentration is to ensure that the student majoring in Latin American studies has mastered the substance and methods of at least one established academic discipline. A student who completes the program will receive a degree in Latin American studies with a concentration in a particular department. A double major in the department of concentration is also an option for Latin American studies majors.

With a deepened understanding of different cultures and societies, students who major in LAST often pursue careers in public service, law, international relations, education,  environmental policy, business, and more.


What You'll Study

  • As a Latin American studies major, you will take at least six courses related to Latin America and at least four courses in a department of concentration. You will also complete a research requirement (a 20+ page paper in English or Spanish on a Latin American topic—a thesis or senior essay will also satisfy this requirement) and fulfill stage II of the General Education Expectations. At least seven of the 10 courses required to complete the major must be taken at Wesleyan.

  • Acceptable departments of concentration are those with an affiliated Latin American studies faculty member. Currently those departments are economics, history, Earth and environmental sciences, government, and Hispanic literatures and cultures. With the approval of the LAST program chair, students may concentrate in other departments that have faculty members with a substantial knowledge of and interest in Latin America and/or the Caribbean.

  • Latin American studies majors are encouraged to spend a semester or a year abroad on an approved program in Latin America. Credit is regularly granted toward the Latin American studies major through the University's pre-approved programs in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Mexico, Cuba, and the Turks and Caicos islands.