Office of the University Registrar

2009-10 Undergraduate Catalog

Academic Learning Compact

Latin American Studies

Description of the Major

The interdisciplinary major in Latin American studies provides students with broad knowledge of contemporary and historical issues relevant to Latin America. The program offers training in areas such as the geography, history, society, economy, politics, religion, arts and culture of Latin America. You will demonstrate or otherwise acquire proficiency in at least one major Latin American language and will learn how to identify and conduct relevant research or field work on a Latin America-related topic. Upon completion of the program, you should be able to evaluate the significance, quality and veracity of information gathered from scholarly sources and to apply it effectively. You also will be able to construct analytical arguments and communicate their perspective confidently in spoken and written form.

Additional information is available from your major's website.

Before Graduating You Must

Demonstrate satisfactory proficiency in a major Latin American language as determined by successful course completion, adequate score on the AP or SAT II exams or individual oral examination (for native speakers).
Satisfactorily complete IDS 4906 Interdisciplinary Research Thesis (capping 7-12 credits of thesis research), graded according to department rubric.
Satisfy the Florida statutes for the College-Level Academic Skills Requirement.
Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.

Skills You Will Acquire in the Major (SLOs)

Familiarity with the culture and arts of Latin America or one of its sub-regions.
Understand the contemporary Latin American experience, its historical roots and relevant social issues.
Research experience that integrates perspectives from diverse disciplines to examine issues relevant to Latin America.
Evaluate the significance, quality and veracity of information gathered in the literature and apply it effectively.
Construct analytical arguments, handle materials judiciously and communicate independent perspectives in spoken and written formats.
Satisfactory proficiency in a major Latin American language.

Courses*	Content		Critical Thinking		Communication
Courses*	SLO 1	SLO 2	SLO 3	SLO 4	SLO 5	SLO 6
Latin American Language**	X					X
Approved social science course	X	X			X
Approved humanities course	X	X			X
IDS 4906	X	X	X	X	X
LAS 4935	X	X	X	X	X
* These are the only required courses for the major. You must complete a total of 21 credit hours of 3000-4000 level courses with Latin American and Caribbean area content, not including 7-12 hours of IDS 4906, Interdisciplinary Research Thesis work.
** This course work is unnecessary if you demonstrate satisfactory proficiency in a major Latin American language as demonstrated by adequate score on either the AP or the SAT II exam, or by individual oral examination (for native speakers).