Caribbean & Latin American Studies at Florida Atlantic University is an interdisciplinary program that explores the history, languages, and cultures of the Caribbean and Latin America. You’ll examine the region’s peoples, politics, and societies, gaining a broad perspective that connects classroom learning with real-world issues in South Florida and beyond.
Caribbean & Latin American Studies at FAU
At FAU, you’ll join a vibrant community with deep ties to the Caribbean and Latin America—right in the heart of South Florida, a gateway to the region. The program brings together faculty and students from across disciplines, offers opportunities for study abroad, and connects you with local and global networks. You’ll build bridges between cultures and gain hands-on experience that prepares you for careers and graduate study in a region that shapes our world.
Degrees Offered at Florida Atlantic
Undergraduate
- Minor in Caribbean & Latin American Studies
- Certificate in Caribbean & Latin American Studies (open to degree and non-degree seeking students)
Explore Degree Programs in Caribbean & Latin American Studies
Educational Objectives & Student Outcomes
2. Support the interests of students, faculty, and the community in this diverse region.
3. Encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.
4. Develop cooperation and exchange between individuals and institutions interested in the region.
2. Apply cultural awareness and sensitivity when working with Caribbean and Latin American clients and colleagues.
3. Appreciate cultural, political, and historical landmarks and customs when traveling or working in the region.
4. Prepare for careers in international relations, education, journalism, non-profit management, tourism, and more.
5. Build skills for graduate study or professional work in fields connected to the Caribbean and Latin America.
Requirements Overview
- A grade of “C” or better in each course is required for successful satisfaction of core and elective courses.
- All students must demonstrate an intermediate level of language proficiency (equivalent of 4 semesters of language study) in a foreign language. Students may choose the option best suited to their needs.
- 1 core course (3 units) + 4 elective courses (12 units) = 15 units
- Courses from this list taken in completion of an academic major may satisfy up to 6 units of elective credit.
- Course descriptions for core and elective courses can be found here.
- Once all requirements have been successfully met, students must fill out this form to be processed by the registrar.
- Additional courses not listed below may substitute with prior approval from the Program Director.
Opportunities
What can I do with a CLAS minor or certificate?
CLAS qualifications increase competitiveness in a job market with a large Latin American and Caribbean clientele. A minor or a certificate in Caribbean and Latin American Studies opens up a wide range of career opportunities for current and graduating students, particularly here in South Florida.
After completing the CLAS program, students will be able to:
- Understand shared economic, social and political influences between the United States and many Caribbean and Latin American countries.
- Apply cultural awareness and sensitivity when working with Caribbean and Latin American clients and colleagues.
- Appreciate cultural, political, and historical landmarks and customs when travelling to the Caribbean and Latin America.
Careers
A CLAS minor or certificate prepares students for a wide range of careers, including:
- International Relations Specialist: Students can work as international relations specialists focusing on Latin American affairs for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international businesses.
- Intercultural Specialist: Graduates can work as intercultural specialists or consultants, facilitating cross-cultural understanding and communication between Caribbean, Latin American, and non-Latin American individuals or organizations.
- Non-profit Organization Manager: Students can work in non-profit organizations focused on Caribbean or Latin American issues, such as human rights, environmental conservation, public health, or economic development.
- International Development Worker: Graduates can work in international development organizations, implementing projects and programs aimed at promoting social, economic, and political development in Latin American countries.
- Foreign Correspondent/Journalist: Students with strong writing and communication skills can work as foreign correspondents or journalists covering news and events in Latin America for media outlets, newspapers, or online platforms.
- Educator/Teacher: Graduates can pursue careers in education as teachers or professors specializing in Caribbean or Latin American history, literature, culture, or language at secondary schools, colleges, or universities.
- Tourism Specialist: Students can work in the tourism industry, promoting and organizing tours, travel packages, or cultural experiences that showcase the diverse attractions and heritage of Caribbean and Latin American countries.
Study Abroad
Students completing the minor may be interested in travelling to the Caribbean or Latin America. FAU currently offers Faculty-led study abroad programs in:
Internship
Some students may want to live abroad upon graduation. The Fulbright ETA program is one funded opportunity to live and work in the Carribbean or Latin America. Learn more here.
Funding/Awards
Contact
Dr. Julia R. Brown
Assistant Professor of Spanish
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431