Complex and colorful
Latin America, and its more than 20 nations, is one of the world’s most culturally diverse areas. UMW’s interdisciplinary Latin American studies minor explores the history, geography, politics, languages, and traditions of Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean, as well as Latinas and Latinos in the U.S. From the temple-topped ziggurats to spicy salsa music, the program fosters understanding of and engagement with a complicated group of cultures long connected to the United States through migration, trade, and more.
Areas of Study
UMW’s interdisciplinary Latin American studies minor draws from anthropology, geography, history, political science, and Spanish with the goal of providing several approaches to the study of this complex region. Course titles include Culture and Literature of the Caribbean, Latin American Politics, Amazonian Societies, and more.
Career Opportunities
Latin American studies minors often find work in government, business, and international organizations, both in the U.S. and abroad. Potential employers include research centers, human rights and environmental organizations, the Peace Corps, the United States Foreign Service, international aid programs, and the United Nations. UMW offers service learning, plus research and study-abroad opportunities designed to put you at the head of the pack.
Internships
Internships are available in the Fredericksburg area at such organizations as Rappahannock Area Regional Adult Education, Bragg Hill Family Life Center, LUCHA Ministries, and Students Helping Honduras. Entities offering internships in the Washington, D.C., area include the Smithsonian and the Library of Congress Hispanic Division. A complete list of internships available through the University of Mary Washington can be found through the Office of Academic and Career Services.
UMW’s Latin American studies minor requires 18 credits, including an upper-level history course in either Colonial Latin America or Modern Latin America, plus an upper-level Spanish course, and 12 elective credits in at least two disciplines, including anthropology, geography, and political science.
The Office of Financial Aid the the University of Mary Washington coordinates more than 300 different scholarship and grant programs that include general scholarships and scholarships for specific majors.