Latin American Studies and Public Health
The Master of Arts in Latin American Studies and Public Health at the University of Miami is an interdisciplinary program that spans two and a half years of full-time, on-campus study. It is crafted for students aiming to engage with critical public health challenges in Latin America through a culturally grounded and regionally focused perspective. The program blends coursework in epidemiology, global health systems, and public policy with an in-depth exploration of Latin American societies, languages, and political structures, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the regional dynamics that shape population health outcomes.
Students benefit from access to the university's strong faculty expertise in both public health and area studies, allowing them to develop analytical tools for policy analysis, research design, and community engagement. By integrating academic disciplines, the program equips students to address complex health disparities and implement sustainable health interventions across Latin America. Fieldwork opportunities, language immersion, and a capstone research project ensure that graduates emerge not only with theoretical insight but with the practical experience necessary to lead meaningful change in diverse international settings.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Latin American Studies and Public Health
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Location: University of Miami, United States
- Field of Study: Public Health
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Health and Regional Contexts
• Introduction to Latin American History and Politics
• Principles of Epidemiology
• Public Health Systems and Policy
• Spanish or Portuguese for Health Professionals
• Research Methods in Social Sciences
Year 2 – Advanced Studies and Applied Fieldwork
• Social Determinants of Health in Latin America
• Global Environmental Health
• Health Program Planning and Evaluation
• Seminar in Latin American Development
• Fieldwork or Internship in Latin America
Final Semester – Capstone and Integration
• Capstone Research Project
• Ethics and Global Health Governance
• Community-Based Health Strategies
• Academic Portfolio and Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this dual-focus program are well-prepared for impactful roles in international health organizations, non-governmental agencies (NGOs), public sector institutions, and research centers dedicated to health equity and regional development. Positions may include global health analyst, public health consultant, regional program coordinator, and policy researcher specializing in Latin American populations. The program’s interdisciplinary structure cultivates professionals who not only understand complex health systems but also navigate the cultural, linguistic, and political factors that influence outcomes. This unique combination makes alumni especially valuable in roles where cross-cultural collaboration and region-specific expertise are essential for effective program design, implementation, and evaluation. Moreover, many graduates pursue leadership roles in international relief efforts, academic research, and government health initiatives aimed at underserved communities across the Americas.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare and strategic combination of public health training with in-depth Latin American studies, providing students with both a specialized skill set and regional fluency that are highly sought after in today’s global workforce. Unlike traditional public health degrees, this curriculum is built to reflect the socio-political realities of Latin American contexts, enabling graduates to approach health interventions with cultural sensitivity and contextual accuracy. Students gain access to interdisciplinary faculty, fieldwork placements, and bilingual training, all within a vibrant academic environment committed to social change. Whether your goal is to work with international aid agencies, shape public health policy, or conduct region-specific research, this program gives you the tools, insight, and hands-on experience to become a leader at the intersection of global health and Latin American development.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
