The purpose of the Latino/a Studies Minor is to teach undergraduate students about Latino/a experiences, cultures, and contributions to the United States. The Latino/a Studies Minor addresses regional workforce needs and strengthens the commitment to cultural diversity within the University academic community.

Upon completion of the Latino/a Studies Minor, students will demonstrate familiarity with the language, cultures, histories, and socioeconomic experiences of the rapidly growing population in the United States. Students enrolled in the Minor are exposed to issues, theories, and research about U.S. Latinos/as through a variety of disciplines. Students engage in service learning with Latino/a organizations as well as complete an academic research project that prepares them for graduate school.

The Minor is particularly effective when combined with majors that offer a natural organic relationship with the Latino/a population (such as business, education, and the social sciences). Graduates of the Minor will be more valuable and effective employees as they participate in an increasingly diverse workplace.

The 18 credit Minor has two required and four elective courses. The required courses are LATS 201 Introduction to Latino/a Studies and LATS 488 Senior Seminar. The four electives are chosen from a variety of disciplines including Spanish, History, Anthropology, and Education. Service learning activities are an integral part of the curriculum because students apply what they have learned through service activities within the Latino/a community. See the curriculum sheet for courses that meet the elective requirements.

The Director of Latino/a Studies Minor is available to assist students as they choose courses that meet their career and learning objectives.