Dedman College Majors
latin american studies
An understanding of these diverse societies and their history, traditions, and politics has never been more timely. Interdisciplinary courses will trace the emergence of such civilizations as pre-Columbian societies, arts, and literature across the centuries, and factors contributing to the current social instability of some nations. Spending at least one semester or summer abroad in Latin America, Spain, or Portugal is recommended to give you a more complete panorama of the Ibero-American world. Students are expected to be proficient in Spanish.
Degree Highlights
B.A.
in Latin American Studies
Minimum 27 credit hours of study in specific courses plus three years of college-level
study
of Spanish or Portuguese
Minor
in Latin American Studies
Minimum 15 credit hours of study in specific courses plus two years of
college-level study of Spanish or Portuguese
Related Majors and Minors
Latin American studies majors can consider a double major or minor in a variety of disciplines from foreign languages and literatures to anthropology. Spanish, international economics, Mexican-American studies, and political science are disciplines to consider.
Careers
The analytical, reasoning, and communications skills you bring to the table – as well as an exceptional appreciation of the dynamics of Latin American regions – can be a definite advantage in such areas as international business, journalism, foreign service, social work, and government.
Faculty
Faculty members come from a number of different disciplines, including history, art history, anthropology, political science, sociology, and Spanish. All instructors are very accessible and committed to your personal goals.
Internships & Study Abroad
Dedman College students get paid internships through the Hegi Family Career Development Center. These range from working at multinational corporations to the U.S. Department of State and the World Affairs Council in Dallas. Students majoring in Latin American studies may be eligible to earn up to three (3) graded credits toward their degrees by enrolling for unpaid, faculty-directed internships through the Dedman College Internship Program. The John G. Tower Center for Political Studies also offers a limited number of research fellowships to SMU undergraduate students who pursue collaborative work in politics and government. There is also a special credit-bearing internship in Latin American studies that can be arranged under the guidance of an international studies faculty member.
Latin American studies majors are encouraged to maximize their experience by taking part in the SMU Study Abroad Program. Choose from yearlong, semester, or summer programs in Latin America, Spain, or Portugal. The department provides several scholarships to these programs, which are especially advantageous: SMU-in-Spain and SMU-in-Xalapa (Mexico).
