Latin American and Caribbean Studies
Understanding the voices and histories of Latin America and the Caribbean opens new ways of seeing the world.
Why Latin American and Caribbean studies matters:
Understanding Latin America and the Caribbean is essential for grasping the complexities of today’s interconnected world. The region’s histories, cultural expressions, political movements, and social dynamics reveal vital insights into global systems, past and present. This field of study builds cultural literacy, critical thinking skills, and a global perspective that can be applied to careers in education, public service, international relations, business, public health, and beyond.
How Latin American and Caribbean studies is taught at Muhlenberg:
At Muhlenberg, the Latin American and Caribbean studies program embraces an inclusive definition of the region and its identities, engaging with the legacies of colonization and the resilience of communities shaped by it. The curriculum examines how race, racism, and resistance have shaped the region, centering the experiences of Black and indigenous populations while offering opportunities to explore language, literature, and cultural traditions both on campus and through immersive study abroad.
The interdisciplinary minor requires six courses drawn from multiple divisions, with no more than two from any one department. Students complete two core courses — such as Spanish Conversation and Debate, Colonial Latin America and the Caribbean, or Modern Latin America and the Caribbean — and select four electives from offerings in history, political science, economics, anthropology, Spanish, public health, sustainability, and more. Courses may also be drawn from LVAIC institutions, approved special topics, or study abroad programs.
Students are strongly encouraged to immerse themselves in the region through study abroad programs, with options ranging from short-term Muhlenberg Integrative Learning Abroad (MILA) courses in Costa Rica and Panamá to semester- or year-long programs in Latin American and Caribbean countries. These experiences allow students to strengthen language skills, engage directly with local communities, and connect classroom learning to lived cultural contexts.
Powerful Outcomes
A Muhlenberg education sets you up for success. The liberal arts will hone your ability to think critically, communicate, and problem-solve, skills that are in high demand across all employment sectors.
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