Latin American and Latino Studies

Designed to complement any major field of study, the Latin American and Latino Studies minor introduces students to deeper historical and socio-cultural awareness, engagement with marginalized communities, and practice of Spanish language skills.

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Program Highlights

The Latin American and Latino Studies minor examines the central historical, political, economic, and cultural factors of Latin America and U.S.-based Latina/o/e Communities. Students will analyze root causes of migration and structural barriers that impact immigrants from Latin America, while expanding and building confidence in their Spanish communication skills and critically reflecting on the complexity of social and cultural identity.

The minor centers the knowledge, lived experience, and social capital of Latinas/os/e and counters narratives that describe Latina/o/e culture as a monolith, engaging students in course content and communities that represent multiple and complex cultural identities and histories.

The two required Service-Learning courses for the minor are taught in Spanish and students will employ their Spanish language skills working with the migrant community of the Canal neighborhood in San Rafael.

Outcomes

Students will demonstrate the ability to do the following:

  • Evaluate the unique character of Latin America and its diasporic cultures, including the region’s diverse historical roots and enduring colonial status.

  • Apply Spanish communication skills.

  • Analyze and address issues related to cultural identity and social issues in U.S. Latino communities through community-engaged learning.

Career Options

Possible career options for students studying Latin American and Latino Studies include: 

  • Academia
  • Advocacy and NGO Management
  • Communications
  • Community Organizing
  • Cultural Advising
  • Diplomacy
  • Foreign Service
  • International Relations
  • Translation

Degrees Offered

Minor

Course Catalog

Minor Requirements

Office Hours

Mon.–Fri., 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Admissions and Aid

A degree from a top-ranked, private University like Dominican is deliberately affordable and accessible! More than 99 percent of our first-year incoming students receive significant financial aid through merit- and need-based scholarships as well as state and federal aid. Additionally, for most students, there is no application fee, and we don't ask for test scores. Get in touch with a counselor to learn more about your path to an exceptional college experience at Dominican!

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Engaging with the Community

Partnering with various organizations in the San Rafael community, students work hand-in-hand to solve pressing issues in the area. Learn more by clicking the image.

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Majoring in Social Justice

If you are inspired to work with diverse communities to promote equity and meaningful change, the Social Justice major is where you begin your journey.

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Faculty and Staff

Jordan Lieser

Jordan Lieser, PhD

Associate Professor, History La Vida Dominican Postbaccalaureate Assistant Director
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Lucia León, PhD

Assistant Professor, Latino Studies and Social Justice
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Natalie Babler

Administrative Manager

Social Justice in the News

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Three students walking together on the Dominican campus.

La Vida Dominican

La Vida Dominican is a program for all students, increasing educational access and connection to support services, enabling degree completion and post-graduation success. Particularly, La Vida is centering experiences of students from Latinx and other historically underserved backgrounds.

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