Latin American Studies

Earn a Ph.D. in order to teach and research at four-year institutions. The interdisciplinary nature of Latin American Studies makes it good preparation for advanced education in a variety of fields.

Obtain a master’s degree in student affairs or library/information science to prepare for those fields.

If interested in K-12 teaching, fulfill requirements for certification. This may involve a double major or a minor. Research alternative paths to certification such as Teach for America and other similar programs.

Research certification options for teaching English (TESOL, CELTA, TEFL)

Get involved in leadership roles on campus such as peer mentor, resident advisor, or orientation leader.

Join related professional associations as a student member.

Interact with students from Latin America. Participate in international programming on campus.

Plan to study, work, or volunteer in Latin American countries.

Develop strong communication and public speaking skills, particularly in Spanish or Portuguese.

Volunteer with community organizations that serve the Latino population. For example, tutor nonnative
English speakers.

Secure strong recommendations from faculty, and maintain a high grade point average.

Assist a professor with research or take an independent study class to develop research skills.

Obtain a law degree (J.D.) for law positions or an advanced degree in public administration, public policy, or international relations for government positions.

Supplement curriculum with relevant courses to prepare for law school (research and writing skills).

Participate in activities that develop strong debate and public speaking skills such as mock trials.

Run for office in student government or work on a political campaign.

Get involved with the pre-law society on campus.

Gain relevant experience through jobs or internships with law firms, government agencies, or mediation centers.

Maintain a high grade point average and secure strong faculty recommendations.

Prepare for and take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).

Study abroad in a Latin American country.

Learn Spanish or Portuguese, specifically relevant technical vocabulary.

Pair an interest in Latin American Studies with communication skills and/or language skills to write about Latinx populations or for publications targeting a Latino audience.

Study a second field such as journalism, English, or broadcasting to prepare for a career in media.

For positions in the arts, consider a minor in art history or music history. Plan to pursue a relevant graduate degree such as Museum Studies.

Write for campus publications such as college newspapers, magazines, or department/program newsletters. Work at campus radio or television stations.

Intern with a publishing house, magazine, radio or television station depending upon area of interest.

Create a portfolio of writing samples, especially those that have been published. For other areas, create a website or digital portfolio to promote skills to potential employers.

Seek opportunities for recognition and networking through writing contests and freelance writing submissions.

Become familiar with the proposal and submission process involved in freelance writing.

When job searching, research media outlets to find those that target Latinx audiences.

Volunteer in local museums or galleries.

Travel to Latin American countries and visit local museums and cultural attractions.

Learn to speak Spanish or Portuguese and develop relevant writing and communication skills in the language.