Why Choose Our Program?

The Center for Latin American Studies offers four dynamic and distinguished graduate degree programs. Our degrees are aimed at developing interdisciplinary skills through a wide range of courses and a large number of potential internship, exchange and study abroad opportunities.

 

Why pursue a graduate degree in Latin American Studies?

Our programs train students for careers in nonprofit and advocacy work, education, business, foreign and government service, law enforcement, social work and public health, among others. Many M.A. recipients go on to Ph.D. programs and careers in higher education and research. Due to the nature of the program, students are encouraged to study abroad for their coursework, take part in field schools such as our Oaxaca Field School or take courses at other local distinguished institutions while enrolled here at SDSU. Due to our unique academic consortiums, we are able to offer students the opportunity to enroll and take courses at the following institutions: University of California, San Diego and El Colegio de la Frontera Norte (COLEF).

Students in our LAS graduate program, and our dual MA/MPA program in LAS and Public Administration are required to be proficient in one or more languages (Spanish, Portuguese, Mixtec, Zapotec and Nahuatl). While these are not required courses for our other programs, the Center for Latin American Studies encourages students to learn new languages for personal and professional growth. Knowledge of a second language provides a competitive edge to applications in all sectors of the workforce.