Carleton College (Northfield, MN) - Latin American Studies (LTAM)
Latin American Studies (LTAM)
The Latin American Studies Program provides a framework for studying the diverse societies of Latin America. With its cultural mosaic shaped by the meeting of Native American, European, African, and Asian peoples,
and its profound geographic, social, and economic variations, Latin America presents rich opportunities for interdisciplinary and cross-cultural study. By drawing upon the perspectives and methodologies of several disciplines, students are challenged to pursue a deeper understanding of the cultures, institutions, and experiences of Latin Americans. The program provides a forum for examining the intersection of issues of politics, economic development, ethnicity, gender, religion, and cultural expression.
Students interested in exploring Latin American Studies as a possible major are strongly encouraged to enroll in at least one of several gateway courses early in their career at Carleton. Those designated courses are: History 170 Modern Latin America, 1810-present, Political Science 221 Latin American Politics, Sociology/Anthropology 250 Ethnography of Latin America, and Spanish 242 Introduction to Latin American Literature.
Requirements for a Major
Students complete a minimum of sixty-six credits in approved courses for the major. Majors must also demonstrate competence in Spanish by completing Spanish 205 or equivalent.
Required Courses: (The following core courses are required of all majors
- HIST 170 Modern Latin America, 1810-present
- LTAM 300 Issues in Latin American Studies
- LTAM 400 Integrative Exercise
In addition, majors are required to complete: Two 300-level Latin America-focused courses offered in the Spanish department. One 300-level history, or sociology/anthropology, or political science course focused on Latin America, and 30 additional credits of electives from the list below. The 300-level courses in the Spanish department that are required are always taught in the language.