Latin American, Latinx, and Caribbean Studies ProgramAcademics

About the Department

Vibrant, Interconnected, and Experiential

Gustavus' Latin American, Latinx, and Caribbean Studies (LALACS) Program immerses students in the rich cultures and histories of the Americas. In this program, you carve your own path across our entire campus based on your interests. Explore the depth of Afro-Caribbean rhythms in an immersive course offered in Dance. Experience Argentine folk in an overview of Latin American Music. Research how climate change is affecting Bolivia's diverse ecosystems in Biology. Wherever your passions lie, your education as a LALACS student centers on customized, experiential learning. You will gain professional experience through a required internship and language classes, as well as through options such as volunteering or studying in another country. You will also take humanities, arts, and social sciences courses. The LALACS Program attracts engaging and fascinating students who learn and grow together. Through LALACS, you will become a global citizen, working and living in our diverse international community.

Learn More About the LALACS Program

Opportunities in Latin American, Latinx, and Caribbean Studies

A Powerful Community of Change-Makers

The LALACS Program has an energetic community atmosphere and hosts lectures, educational and social events, and leadership experiences each year. Take advantage of numerous off-campus opportunities such as the Minneapolis Latino Film Festival, the Old Town Mankato Day of the Dead, an array of service learning opportunities in the Saint Peter area, and short- or long-term study abroad.

Explore Opportunities in LALACS

• Study Away — Many students choose to study in Latin America or the Caribbean. Studying in another country allows you to deepen your understanding of the region, enhance your language proficiency, and develop a global perspective.
• Research — As part of your senior capstone class, you will complete a major research project with the support of LALACS faculty. If you want to take it further, faculty will provide guidance about additional student conferences and research venues such as the North Central Council of Latin Americanists.
• Experiential Learning and Community Engagement — There is an emphasis on connecting students with the Hispanic/Latinx community off campus to foster cultural understanding and build valuable professional skills. Additionally, some LALACS courses require community-based learning responsibilities.
• Student Clubs and Leadership — The LALACS Program supports student clubs such as the Organization of Latin American Students, Spanish Honorary Society, the PanAfrican Student Organization, and the International Cultures Club. LALACS also encourages students to pursue other leadership positions across campus.
• LALACS Events — The LALACS Program organizes a diverse range of events throughout the year, providing opportunities for students to learn, build friendships, enhance event-planning and organizational skills, and just have fun.
• Internship or Independent Study — LALACS students are required to complete an internship or independent study. This empowers you to construct meaningful connections between your academic studies and career-oriented opportunities, gaining crucial skills that may prove necessary in your professional journey.
• Career Paths — Gustavus LALACS graduates enjoy careers in research, study-abroad education, non-profit organizations, English language teaching (domestically and abroad), and others. Some students pursue graduate school in various disciplines, including Latin American Studies, advocacy, and public policy.