Latin American Studies

Latin American Studies at the University of Cambridge offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive exploration of the history, culture, politics, economics, and society of Latin America. This program is designed for students who are interested in gaining a deep understanding of the diverse countries and peoples of this vibrant region, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic contemporary developments. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of topics, including indigenous histories, post-colonial transformations, social movements, economic challenges, and political changes that have shaped Latin America from pre-colonial times to the present day.

The program provides both a broad overview and an opportunity for specialization, allowing students to tailor their studies to particular interests such as Latin American literature, film, art, history, or political science. Formal lectures, seminars, and tutorials facilitate an interactive learning environment, encouraging critical thinking and active participation. Students will examine significant Latin American texts, films, and artworks, while also engaging with contemporary issues facing the region, such as inequality, environmental challenges, and migration.

Students have access to a wealth of resources, including libraries, archives, and research centers dedicated to Latin American studies. They benefit from the expertise of world-renowned faculty members who are leading scholars in fields related to Latin America. The program often incorporates field visits, guest lectures, and collaborative research projects, offering practical insights into the region's complexities.

Graduates of Latin American Studies at Cambridge are well-equipped for careers in academia, international development, government, NGOs, journalism, business, and cultural sectors. They develop critical analytical skills, cultural awareness, and language proficiency, particularly in Spanish and Portuguese. The program fosters a nuanced understanding and appreciation of Latin America's diverse societies, histories, and contemporary challenges, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to academic, policy, and cultural discussions about the region.

Core Course

• Part I: Critical Issues in Latin American Studies
• Part II: Research in Practice 
• Part III: Sustainable Development and Politics in Latin America
• Additional seminars on Research Methods and Frameworks 

Optional Modules

The following modules are planned for the coming academic year. Follow the links below to find more information on each module and/or details of the current year's teaching programme. The content of most modules will change a little year to year.

• Everyday Life in Contemporary Latin America: Interdisciplinary Perspectives
• Modernity and Marginality in Latin American Literary Culture​
• Latin American Film and Visual Arts
• Power and Protest: Social Movements and the State in Latin America
• Race and Indigeneity in Latin America

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Research Proposal. 500 words
• Sample of Work. 2000 words
• Personal Reference. This is only required if you are applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

The University of Cambridge offers various financing options for students enrolled in Latin American Studies, reflecting the university’s commitment to supporting international and domestic students alike. Funding opportunities encompass a range of scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans designed to assist students in covering tuition fees and living expenses. Scholarships specifically dedicated to Latin American Studies are limited; however, prospective students are encouraged to explore university-wide awards such as postgraduate scholarships, departmental funding, and external fellowships that may support students focusing on Latin America.

The Cambridge Trust offers several scholarships for international students, which may be applicable to those studying Latin American Studies, depending on eligibility criteria. In addition, the Gates Cambridge Scholarships are highly prestigious awards available to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK, providing full funding for tuition fees, living costs, and other essential expenses. The colleges within Cambridge also administer small bursaries and awards that can contribute toward financial needs.

Funding applications typically require demonstrating academic excellence, relevant research interests, and in some cases, financial need. Students are advised to submit applications early, as many scholarships have specific deadlines, often well before the start of the academic year. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources such as government scholarships, private foundations, and regional grants that focus on Latin America, development studies, or related fieldwork.

For those requiring loans, the UK government offers postgraduate loan schemes that can be utilized by eligible students from the UK. International students may need to explore loan programs available in their home countries or through private lenders. Cambridge’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for funding, including advice tailored to international students who may face additional barriers in accessing financial services.

Overall, financing a degree in Latin American Studies at Cambridge involves a combination of internal university awards, external scholarships and grants, and personal or family contributions. Prospective students are encouraged to thoroughly research all available options and prepare application materials meticulously to maximize their chances of securing funding. The university’s aim is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from pursuing their academic interests in Latin American Studies.

The MPhil in Latin American Studies at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the diverse and complex region of Latin America. This programme is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge of Latin American history, politics, culture, and society through a rigorous academic framework. The programme typically provides a combination of taught courses, seminars, and independent research, allowing students to develop analytical skills and a critical understanding of key issues facing Latin America today. Students have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of topics, including indigenous movements, post-colonial development, political regimes, economic transformations, social justice, and cultural expressions.

The curriculum usually includes core modules that introduce students to the historical and contemporary contexts of Latin America, alongside optional courses that allow for specialization in areas such as Caribbean studies, Andean studies, or Brazilian studies. Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to develop a research proposal for their dissertation, guided by expert faculty members who are specialists in Latin American affairs. The research component enables students to undertake independent fieldwork or archival research, fostering skills in data collection, analysis, and scholarly writing.

The programme benefits from the university’s extensive resources, including access to relevant libraries, archives, and online databases. Students also have the chance to attend guest lectures, conferences, and seminars that provide insights from leading scholars and practitioners on current developments within the region. The University of Cambridge’s global academic network allows for potential collaboration with institutions and experts beyond Cambridge, broadening students’ perspectives.

Graduates of the programme typically pursue careers in academia, government, international organizations, NGOs, journalism, or consultancy, contributing to policy analysis and cross-cultural understanding. The programme aims to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for work related to Latin American issues. Overall, the MPhil in Latin American Studies at Cambridge is a rigorous academic programme that prepares students for advanced research, policy work, or further doctoral studies in the region or related disciplines.