The Latin American Studies (LAS) Project at ¸Û°Ä±¦µä offers courses and promotes academic and cultural events that broaden knowledge about
and understanding of Latin America and Latino communities in the U.S.; that foster
civic engagement; and that lead to an appreciation of the rich cultures of Latin American
nations, which include the Spanish-speaking Caribbean islands of Cuba, Puerto Rico
and the Dominican Republic.
As our world’s economic and political systems have become increasingly interconnected
and global in nature, the study of the arts, cultures, domestic issues, economics,
geography, history, international relations, languages, politics and religions of
Latin America is now more vital than ever. Given that Latinos comprise the fastest
growing minority in the U.S., the study of the history, experiences, contributions
and social fabric of diverse Latino communities is equally essential.
Latin American and Latino/a Studies at ¸Û°Ä±¦µäcan be a gateway to additional study and
varied job opportunities or careers, such as immigration attorney, community affairs
specialist, cultural affairs officer, customer relations representative, educator, law
enforcement agencies, human services, translator, international media planner, international
relations or trade specialist, and many other careers.
The LAS Project is supported by the LAS Committee, whose members include faculty and staff from various departments and offices at the
College. Any ¸Û°Ä±¦µäfaculty and staff member interested in joining the LAS Committee
should contact the LAS Project Coordinator for meeting dates.
The project offers two interdisciplinary courses: LAS 101 Introduction to Latin American
Studies and LAS 105 Introduction to Latino/a Studies. There are courses in History,
English, Economics and Foreign Languages to help students explore this field of study,
provide a useful background for different careers, and transferable to four year schools.