Understanding Latino/a Identities and Their Impact on American Society

The U.S. Latino/a Studies minor, offered through the Department of Ethnic and Gender Studies in collaboration with the Department of World Language Studies, is designed for students interested in critically examining the social, historical, political, educational, economic, and cultural factors that impact Latinos and their communities in the United States. This program provides a unique opportunity to explore a population that navigates various boundaries related to geography, language, class, race, and gender. Key topics covered in the minor include race and racialization, sexuality and gender formation, immigration and migration, electoral politics, social movements advocating for labor and education rights, and the representation of Latino/a communities in media and film. Please note that Ethnic and Gender Studies majors are not eligible to declare this minor. The minor consists of required courses totaling 6 credits, including "Introduction to Latino/a Studies" and "U.S. Latino/a Literatures," along with a selection of elective courses that focus on these themes.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses - 18 credits
  • Analyze key social and political factors affecting Latino/a communities
  • Explore race, gender, immigration, and media representation
  • Combine insights from Ethnic and Gender Studies and World Language Studies

Course Requirements

Minor in U.S. Latino/a Studies - 18 credits

Housed in the Department of Ethnic and Gender Studies, and offered in collaboration with the Department of World Language Studies, the minor in U.s. Latino/a Studies is intended for students who wish to critically examine the social, historical, political, educational, economic and cultural developments that affect Latinos and their communities in the United States.  The minor will provide students with the opportunity to examine this population that crosses and re-crosses borders constructed by geography, linguistics, class, race, and gender.  Among the topics offered in this minor are: race and racialization; sexuality and gender formation; immigration and migration; electoral politics; social movements for labor, education, and language rights; and the Latino/a presence in media and film.  Ethnic and Gender Studies majors may not declare this as a minor.

Required Courses - 6 credits

Elective Courses - 12 Credits

What Can You Do with a Minor in U.S. Latino/a Studies?

A minor in U.S. Latino/a Studies can open up various career opportunities and provide valuable skills applicable in many fields. Here are some potential paths:

  • Community Advocate
  • Cultural Consultant
  • Graduate Studies
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Media and Communications
  • Public Policy Analyst
  • Researcher
  • Social Services Professional
EGST student listening to a lecture on campus.

Be Effective and Make an Impact

Explore the complexities of gender, ethnicity, and intersectionality while developing essential skills such as research, critical thinking, advocacy, and effective communication. Through hands-on experiences in outreach with various organizations—including schools, clinics, and food pantries—you’ll connect academic knowledge to real-world issues. As scholar-activists, students actively contribute to their communities and beyond. Our program, the only one of its kind in New England, integrates race, class, and gender, offering powerful career preparation alongside courses that meet core and state diversity requirements.

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U.S. Latino/a Studies Minor