Latin American Studies

Latin American Studies at the University of Alberta offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive exploration of the history, culture, politics, and societies of Latin America. This program is designed for students interested in gaining an in-depth understanding of the diverse developments across Latin American countries, their unique identities, and their interactions with global systems. Through a combination of courses in history, politics, anthropology, literature, and economics, students will develop a nuanced perspective on the complex socio-economic and cultural issues that shape Latin America today. The program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, diplomacy, development work, journalism, academia, and other fields that require specialized knowledge of Latin American regions. Students have access to a variety of learning opportunities, including language studies, area-specific research, and potential fieldwork experiences, which enhance their understanding and engagement with Latin American societies. The curriculum emphasizes both historical context and contemporary issues, fostering an appreciation of the rich cultural diversity, social movements, and political dynamics within Latin America. Furthermore, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, enabling students to draw connections between different fields and develop a holistic understanding of the region. Faculty members in Latin American Studies at the University of Alberta are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and research guidance to students. The program also promotes community engagement and partnerships with organizations working in Latin America, providing students with practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of the Latin American Studies program are well-equipped to contribute to policies, research, and initiatives aimed at promoting social justice, economic development, and cultural understanding in Latin America and beyond. Whether students aim to pursue further graduate studies, work in international contexts, or enrich their cultural knowledge, the program provides a solid foundation for a diverse and globally relevant career.

Latin American Studies at the University of Alberta offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the diverse cultures, histories, politics, economies, and societies of Latin America. The program encourages critical analysis and fosters a nuanced appreciation of the region's complexities and global significance. Students will explore topics such as Latin American history from pre-Columbian times to the present, examining indigenous civilizations, colonial influences, revolutionary movements, and contemporary social challenges. The curriculum includes courses on Latin American literature, art, and music, highlighting the region’s rich cultural expressions and creative expressions.

The program emphasizes language proficiency in Spanish and Portuguese, enabling students to engage directly with primary sources and cultural materials, as well as to communicate effectively within the region. In addition to language acquisition, students will study Latin America's political systems, economic development, human rights issues, environmental concerns, and social movements. The program incorporates field trips, guest lectures, and study-abroad opportunities, providing practical experiences and fostering global engagement.

Students are encouraged to develop research projects and participate in internships that connect academic learning with real-world applications. The program prepares graduates for careers in international development, diplomacy, journalism, academia, non-governmental organizations, and cultural institutions. Offering a flexible itinerary with options for specialized minors or combined degrees, Latin American Studies at the University of Alberta aims to produce well-informed, culturally sensitive, and globally minded graduates ready to contribute to diverse professional fields.

The Latin American Studies program at the University of Alberta offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, politics, and society of Latin America. The program requires the completion of core courses that establish a solid foundation in Latin American history and culture, alongside a selection of electives that allow students to tailor their studies to specific regions or topics within Latin America. Students must undertake language training in Spanish or Portuguese to facilitate engagement with primary sources and enhance their intercultural competence. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating perspectives from politics, history, anthropology, and literature to foster a well-rounded understanding of Latin American issues. Students are also encouraged to participate in study abroad opportunities and internships to gain practical experience and cultural immersion. Degree requirements include a combination of coursework, language proficiency, and a capstone project or thesis, depending on the specific track chosen. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in international relations, development, research, or further graduate studies. To fulfill graduation requirements, students must complete a minimum of 30 to 36 credits related to Latin American Studies, including mandatory courses and electives, maintain a certain grade point average, and satisfy any language competency prerequisites. Students should consult the official university calendar for detailed course descriptions, prerequisite information, and specific program rules, as these may be updated periodically to reflect ongoing academic developments and faculty expertise.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Latin American Studies program at the University of Alberta offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's status as a domestic or international student. Domestic students benefit from more affordable tuition rates, which are structured to make the program accessible and financially manageable. International students, on the other hand, are required to pay higher tuition fees reflecting the university's policy for international enrolment.

In addition to tuition, students should consider other costs such as textbooks, supplies, and living expenses in Edmonton. To assist with these costs, the university provides several scholarships and bursaries specifically aimed at students enrolled in Latin American Studies and related disciplines. These financial aid options are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria established by the university or external donors.

Funding opportunities include entrance scholarships for incoming students, which can provide a significant financial boost. There are also ongoing awards, including merit-based bursaries and need-based financial support, aimed at current students. Students are encouraged to apply early and explore external funding sources such as government grants, private scholarships, and international funding programs that are available to Latin American Studies students.

Work-study programs are another avenue for students seeking to finance their education. These programs allow students to work part-time on campus or in related fields, gaining valuable experience while offsetting expenses. The university also offers various student employment positions that are compatible with academic schedules.

Students enrolled in the Latin American Studies program can benefit from financial planning services offered by the university's student financial aid office. These services help students understand their options, develop a budget, and manage their finances effectively throughout their studies.

In summary, the University of Alberta provides a comprehensive array of financing options to support Latin American Studies students, including competitive scholarships, bursaries, work-study programs, and external funding opportunities. Prospective and current students are encouraged to regularly check the university’s official website and contact the financial aid office for the most current information and application deadlines.

Latin American Studies at the University of Alberta offers students an interdisciplinary exploration of the cultures, histories, politics, and societies of Latin America. The program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the region's diverse nations, peoples, and issues, fostering critical thinking and cross-cultural awareness. Students enrolled in this program can expect to study a wide range of topics including Latin American literature, history, politics, economics, and social movements. The curriculum often combines language studies, including Spanish and Portuguese, to enable students to engage directly with primary sources and communicate effectively within the region.

The program is designed for those interested in careers related to international development, diplomacy, journalism, academia, or business involving Latin American markets. It emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, encouraging students to participate in research projects, internships, and study abroad opportunities that enhance their understanding and experience of Latin American cultures firsthand. The University of Alberta's strong global partnerships and resources support students in gaining exposure to real-world issues faced by Latin American nations, such as economic development, environmental challenges, and social justice.

Students can pursue a major, minor, or honours specialization in Latin American Studies, allowing for flexibility based on academic interests and career goals. Faculty members involved in the program are experts in fields related to Latin America, providing mentorship and conducting research that informs the curriculum. The program also encourages students to develop language proficiency in at least one Latin American language, which is crucial for engaging with the region's diverse populations and for academic research.

Beyond classroom instruction, students have access to various cultural events, lectures, and networking opportunities that deepen their understanding of Latin American societies. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from anthropology, political science, history, literature, and economics to offer a holistic perspective on Latin America. Graduates of the program are equipped with critical analytical skills and regional expertise that prepare them for careers in government, non-governmental organizations, international agencies, and private sectors involved with Latin America.

Overall, Latin American Studies at the University of Alberta aims to cultivate informed, culturally sensitive, and globally minded individuals who are prepared to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to issues concerning Latin America and beyond.