Latin American Studies Program

Coordinator: TBD
Adjunct Faculty: Three positions

Latin American Studies at SUNY Plattsburgh is a small, quality program, which offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary view of the peoples, cultures, and problems of a major world region. In doing so, it provides a study of the background and origins of the largest ethnic group in the United States - the
Hispanic/Latino community. An increasing number of Latin American Studies (LAS) students are from that community, or from Latin America (and the Caribbean), and many find careers that engage that world region or that ethnic community in the United States. To prepare LAS majors and minors for such career opportunities, the Program offers three integrated learning objectives.

Soft Skills: LAS students, especially in the Program’s upper-level interdisciplinary courses are taught how to listen (to move beyond simply hearing to respond more timely, accurately, and deeply). They are schooled in questioning, with complexity and sophistication. They engage in argumentation and negotiation, identifying differences and areas of agreement. They gain experience in speaking extemporaneously to the situation and with confidence, and in working cooperatively over an extended time and sometimes in high pressure situations.

Broadened Perspectives: LAS students encounter global issues that will shape their generation in the decades to come. They study and engage foreign cultures, expanding their awareness and enriching their understanding of the world and its diversity. Almost all experience being in two national capitals through the Program’s advanced study options, increasing their comfort level and proficiency in professional settings.

Hands-on Experiences: LAS majors and minors gain professional experience through three advanced studies tracks. The Model Organization of American States enables students to employ soft skills, study hemispheric issues, and engage their peers from across the United States and the Americas. Study abroad helps them to gain cross-cultural background through course work and living in another country. The Washington Internship Institute semester incorporates academic seminars and working in a professional setting in the nation’s capital. In content, students are expected to gain a broad understanding of the historical, geographical, and cultural context of the development of Latin America (and the Caribbean), while focusing on its current problems and issues. They explore these patterns from the perspective of the region as a whole, as well as from varied national experiences across the region. Alongside this working body of knowledge, students are trained in and practice the soft skills and integrative analysis - especially through advanced study tracks - that will shape their professional stature to pursue a variety of different career opportunities.

Programs

• Latin American Studies, B.A.

• Latin American Studies Minor