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Latin American and Caribbean Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Latin American and Caribbean Studies at Brown University is a four-year, full-time, on-campus program that offers students an interdisciplinary exploration of the histories, cultures, languages, and politics of Latin America and the Caribbean. Drawing from fields such as anthropology, history, literature, sociology, political science, and Africana studies, the program allows students to critically examine colonial legacies, migration patterns, identity formation, and contemporary social movements. Emphasis is placed on understanding the region’s global impact and internal diversity, from indigenous traditions to diasporic narratives and economic transformation.
Students benefit from close interaction with faculty members engaged in regional research and public scholarship. Through seminars, language immersion, and field-based learning, students sharpen their analytical and interpretive skills while gaining a deeper appreciation of transnational connections and cultural expression. The program encourages original research, and many students take advantage of study abroad opportunities or internships in Latin America and the Caribbean. With a flexible structure and strong focus on critical thinking, the program prepares graduates to navigate and contribute to complex discussions about power, culture, and global interdependence.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Latin American and Caribbean Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Brown University, United States
- Field of Study: Area & Cultural Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations and Language Proficiency
- Introduction to Latin American and Caribbean Studies
- Elementary or Intermediate Spanish or Portuguese
- Colonial Histories of the Americas
- Elective: Cultural Anthropology or Global Migration
Year 2 – Regional Themes and Social Inquiry
- Literature and Identity in Latin America
- Caribbean Political Thought and History
- Social Movements and Human Rights
- Research Methods in Area Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Study and International Experience
- Race, Gender, and Citizenship in the Americas
- Study Abroad or Summer Field Program
- Environmental Justice and Development in Latin America
- Elective: Art and Visual Cultures or Transnational Feminism
Year 4 – Specialization and Capstone
- Senior Seminar in Latin American and Caribbean Studies
- Independent Research or Honors Thesis
- Advanced Elective in History, Literature, or Politics
- Public Engagement or Community-Based Research Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-positioned for impactful careers in fields that value global understanding, cultural fluency, and analytical depth. Common career paths include roles in international development, diplomacy, nonprofit management, journalism, and education, particularly in organizations that work with Latin American and Caribbean communities or engage in regional policy. Many graduates pursue advanced degrees in political science, anthropology, public health, or law, often with a focus on human rights, migration, or global inequality. Others enter cultural institutions, translation and language services, or global business sectors where cross-cultural literacy is essential. The program’s strong foundation in research and communication equips students to address complex international issues and to serve as thoughtful contributors to both local and global communities. Whether in policy, academia, or the nonprofit sector, graduates bring a deep contextual understanding of one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse regions.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary exploration, immersive cultural study, and critical global analysis of Latin America and the Caribbean. Brown University’s open curriculum and commitment to academic freedom allow students to tailor their studies based on personal interests, from Afro-Caribbean heritage to environmental politics. Faculty are not only scholars but also public intellectuals and activists who support students in conducting meaningful research and community engagement. With access to language resources, study abroad options, and cross-departmental collaboration, students benefit from a learning experience that is both locally grounded and globally relevant. For those who want to understand and impact the Americas through scholarship, advocacy, and cultural dialogue, this program offers the framework, mentorship, and opportunity to thrive.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States
