Latin American Studies

Latin American Studies at University College London offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive exploration of the histories, cultures, politics, societies, and economic developments of Latin America. This programme is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the diverse and dynamic regions of Latin America, from the pre-Columbian era to contemporary issues. Through a combination of language studies, regional history, literature, political science, and anthropology, students develop a multifaceted perspective on Latin American countries and their place in the global context. The curriculum is structured to enhance critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural understanding, equipping graduates to engage effectively with social, political, and economic challenges in Latin America and beyond. Students have the opportunity to study Spanish or Portuguese, gaining language proficiency critical for research and professional opportunities in the region. The programme also encourages experiential learning through fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects, which provide practical insights into the socio-political realities of Latin America. Faculty members are experts in their fields, offering research-led teaching that connects theoretical approaches with real-world issues. The programme prepares students for careers in international development, diplomacy, journalism, academic research, and non-governmental organizations, among others. Graduates will have a sophisticated understanding of Latin American issues, cultural diversity, and regional dynamics, making them valuable assets in international environments. Whether you are seeking to enhance your cultural knowledge, pursue academic research, or develop professional skills for working in Latin America, this programme provides a robust foundation for your future endeavors in the region or related fields.

Depending on their chosen areas of specialisation, students will develop analytical and critical perspectives in multidisciplinary aspects of Latin American history, politics and international relations, anthropology, geography and environmental issues, and economics, as well as cultural studies. They will gain key research skills, together with in-depth knowledge of current debates in the field of Latin American Studies.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of one core module (15 credits), five optional modules (75 credits), and the research dissertation (90 credits).

Please note: All optional modules are subject to availability.

Core module

• Researching the Americas: Latin America and the Caribbean

Optional modules

Students choose five option modules from a selection that includes the following:

• Confronting the Colossus: US Anti-imperialism, 1945-present
• Democratization in Latin America
• Histories of Exclusion: Race and Ethnicity in Latin America
• Social and Economic Development of Contemporary Brazil
• The International Politics of Latin America
• Latin American Economies: Beyond Neoliberalism
• State and Society in Latin America: Ethnographic Perspectives
• The Caribbean from the Haitian Revolution to the Cuban Revolution
• Money and Politics in Latin America
• The Politics of Human Rights in Latin America: Transitional Justice
• Politics, Society and Development in the Modern Caribbean
• The Latin American City: Social Problems and Social Change in Urban Space
• Sustainable Development in Latin America and the Caribbean

Students may choose a maximum of 30 credits from other departments or from other University of London colleges, subject to the Programme Director's approval.

Dissertation/report

All students write a dissertation of 15,000 words on a research topic of their choice linked to the subject area of one of their taught modules.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of seminars, lectures, presentations, research skills training, and independent reading and research. Assessment is through essays, group and individual presentations, analytical exercises, and the dissertation.

Fieldwork

Many of our Master’s students undertake fieldwork in order to carry out research for their dissertation projects.

There may be travel costs associated with fieldwork. The Institute has limited funds available to students to help towards the costs of fieldwork. These funds are awarded on a competitive basis on the criteria of academic performance to date, the quality of the research proposal and the importance of fieldwork for completing the research.

Normally an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. A basic reading competence in Spanish or Portuguese is desirable. Students without such skills may be considered but are advised to undertake a separate language course prior to or during the programme.

The financing of the Latin American Studies program at University College London is structured to provide students with various options to support their academic pursuits. UCL offers a comprehensive range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid opportunities tailored to both domestic and international students enrolling in this interdisciplinary program. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consult the UCL Scholarships and Funding webpage for detailed information about available awards, including the UCL Graduate Research Scholarships, which sometimes support students engaged in area studies, and the UCL Latin American Studies Scholarships, if available. Additionally, there are government bursaries and external funding sources that students can apply for, depending on their nationality and residency status. International students are advised to explore options such as the Commonwealth Scholarships and private organizations that offer grants for study in the UK.

UCL also provides information on student loans, including government-backed loans for eligible students, and work-study opportunities that enable students to gain practical experience while funding their education. The cost of tuition varies depending on the student's status as a home or international student, with specific figures available during the application process. Tuition fees for the Latin American Studies program are updated annually and are published directly on the UCL website. Accommodation costs, living expenses, and additional academic fees should also be considered in the financial planning process.

The university recommends early application for funding opportunities to maximize chances of receiving financial support. Students are encouraged to prepare requisite documentation, such as academic transcripts, statements of purpose, and financial need statements, to strengthen their applications. UCL’s Financial Assistance Office provides personalized guidance on funding applications and budgeting advice to help students manage their expenses effectively. Overall, while studying Latin American Studies at UCL involves certain costs, a range of financial support options are available to assist students in making their education accessible and affordable.

Latin American Studies at University College London offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the diverse histories, cultures, politics, and societies of Latin America. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the region’s complex processes of development, social change, and cultural expression. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and research projects, students explore topics such as Latin American history, literature, politics, economics, and social movements, gaining insights into contemporary issues facing the region. The program emphasizes critical thinking, comparative analysis, and engagement with primary sources, preparing students for careers in academia, public policy, international development, journalism, and other fields related to Latin America.

Students enrolled in the program will have opportunities to participate in field trips, language training, and academic exchanges that enrich their understanding of Latin American contexts. The curriculum is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether they prefer focusing on history, politics, culture, or social issues. The program also encourages the development of language skills in Spanish and Portuguese, which are essential for research and professional work in the region. Faculty members specialize in various disciplines, providing a multidisciplinary perspective on Latin American studies.

University College London’s location in London, a global hub of diplomacy, culture, and international organizations, offers students unique access to resources, libraries, and events pertinent to Latin America. The program collaborates with external institutions and Latin American embassies to facilitate internships and networking opportunities. Graduates of the program often pursue further research, postgraduate studies, or careers in areas such as international relations, human rights, development agencies, and academia. The program aims to foster a nuanced understanding of Latin America, promoting critical awareness and intercultural competence essential for engaging with the region’s diverse societies.