Graduates of the Latin American Studies program have pursued careers in teaching, consulting, and working for governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and U.S. and international corporations.

About Latin American Studies

The rich cultures, traditions, and societies of Latin America are the focus of an interdisciplinary graduate program at Ohio University (OU). For more than thirty years, the Latin American Studies (LAS) Program at OU has offered a degree based on academic coursework, internships, research, and language acquisition. Nearly 25 faculty members across a wide range of disciplines have experience in and teach about Latin America at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Their impressive backgrounds and collective list of publications make for a challenging intellectual atmosphere. Students at OU can pursue a Master of Arts in Latin American Studies, and the program also supports students who wish to continue on to doctoral work in/about the region.

For program admission and application requirements, visit: http://www.las.ohio.edu/Pdf/Application%20guideline.pdf

Program goals

The LAS Master’s Program is designed for students interested in either professional or academic careers, and stresses field research and applied learning. Students may take courses in many disciplines, including Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Journalism, Linguistics, Political Science, and Women’s and Gender Studies, as well as Modern Languages. The flexible nature of the program is intended to allow individuals freedom to pursue specific interests best suited to their goals within regional and global contexts. Students must complete one of three capstone options, which represent the culmination of their graduate work: comprehensive examinations, a thesis paper, or a professional project.

For more information about the program, please consult the LAS Student Handbook: http://www.las.ohio.edu/Resources/Handbook%20LAS%202012.pdf

Language proficiency

All LAS candidates must have or attain knowledge of one of Latin America’s languages—usually Spanish or Portuguese. This requirement may be fulfilled through native proficiency, testing (FSI, ACTFL, Spanish Section of DML, etc.) or the successful completion of at least two years of college course work with a grade of ‘B’ or better (at OU or elsewhere). Attaining knowledge of one Latin American language does not fulfill the total credit hour requirements of the LAS degree. The program also offers an “Enhanced Language” option for students entering the program with proficiency in either Spanish or Portuguese who wish to gain knowledge of the other. Please see the LAS Student Handbook for more details

Study abroad opprotunities

All LAS graduate students are encouraged to participate in work/study/research abroad programs. The LAS program has a strong connection with Ecuador, and offers two official programs there. Other opportunities may arise in various countries and should be discussed with Ohio University faculty.

Visit us onilne

For more information, visit: www.las.ohio.edu

Additional information

To learn more about the graduate program in Latin American Studies at the Center for International Studies, please contact the director:

Latin American Studies Master’s Program
201 Yamada International House
Center for International Studies
Ohio University
Athens, OH 45701-2979

Phone: 740.593.1835
Fax: 740.593.1837