Latin American Studies

The secondary major in Latin American studies provides opportunities for students to examine issues related to Latin America from a variety of perspectives. This interdisciplinary approach is designed to help students understand the systematic nature of political, socioeconomic, technological, and environmental problems in Latin America and the value systems of the people involved.

The program allows students to work with specialists in the humanities and social sciences, and to benefit from the expertise and experience of scientists and engineers who are engaged in research or development projects related to Latin America. Students who complete the secondary major will be qualified to pursue graduate work in Latin American studies. The curriculum will enhance student qualifications for employment in research, economic development, social action, trade, and diplomacy related to Latin America.

A student from any college may choose the secondary major in Latin American studies to complement course work in his or her major. Many courses may simultaneously meet the student's own college or major degree requirements. In this way, electives and required courses within a college curriculum may count toward the secondary major in Latin American studies.

Courses approved for the secondary major in Latin American studies are found at www.ksu.edu/ias. The website listing is revised each semester as new courses are added or changed and others are removed from the university curriculum.

Please note that other Latin American studies courses are offered as ``special studies,'' ``topics,'' ``problems,'' or ``seminar'' categories.'' Intersession offerings may sometimes be acceptable. Transfer credits from approved study abroad programs, or other institutions, may be accepted as part of a student's program of study. Please check www.ksu.edu/ias for any program changes or announcements.

Requirements
I. Language requirement
Students must complete Spanish IV or its equivalent, or demonstrate more advanced competence in Spanish or Portuguese.

II. Area courses
Students must complete 21 hours of area courses, including Senior Research. Courses must be taken in a minimum of four departments, with no more than 9 hours in any one department.

Please see www.ksu.edu/ias/iascourses.htm for a current list of courses.

Courses are generally available in the following disciplines:

Anthropology
Geography
History
Modern languages
Political science
Sociology

Senior research
DAS 407 Senior Research in Latin American Studies or approved alternative.

During the senior year, the student will write a research paper or complete a project on a Latin American studies topic. The research may be an honors thesis or design project in one of the participating colleges or it may involve independent study. Students may enroll in DAS 407 or in an approved alternative course. In all cases, the student must have the permission of a faculty member to supervise and evaluate the work. All students enrolled in Senior Research in Latin American Studies must have their topics approved by the director of the secondary major in Latin American studies.

Topics within Secondary Majors:
	American Ethnic Studies		International Studies		Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
	Gerontology		Latin American Studies