Latin American and Latinx Studies, BA

Associate Faculty

Yamile Silva, Ph.D., Director of Latin American Studies
Michael Allison, Ph.D.
Roxana Curiel, PhD.
Aiala Levy, Ph.D.
Susan Méndez, Ph.D.
Janice Voltzow, Ph.D.

Latin American and Latinx Studies

Latin American and Latinx Studies is a multi-disciplinary program designed to advance students’ understanding of Latin America and people of Latin American heritage.  It seeks to provide general knowledge of Latin America and its diaspora alongside in-depth knowledge of specific countries, regions, cultures, and communities.  Students in the program are encouraged to double-major and/or minor in the wide array of disciplines offered at The University of Scranton and to study abroad in Latin America for at least one semester.

Coursework in history and political science provides the foundation for understanding the historical, political, social, cultural, and economic development of Latin America.  These classes provide familiarity with those factors that have shaped the experiences of individuals, groups, and countries.  Students learn about the social significance of concrete events in the past and the present. 

Examining the role of philosophy and religion within the context of Latin American and Latinx Studies allows students to appreciate how persons in other cultures have contemplated the human condition and the need for self-transcendence.  Instruction in these courses engenders cultural sensitivity to the intellectual traditions, beliefs, and practices of others while enriching students in their quests to answer fundamental questions about themselves.

The natural history of Latin America has had a tremendous influence on the human societies that inhabit the region.  Biology, anthropology, and geography courses provide students with a robust knowledge of the geological, geographic, biological, and cultural diversity of Latin America, and demonstrate how these dimensions have influenced the ways that humans have adapted to and altered their environment.

Literary works represent cultural, social, and political issues such as the articulation and negotiation of class, race, gender, and sexuality.  The study of written, visual, and aural cultural production enhances an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of Latin American and Latinx communities.  It also facilitates the acquisition of language skills and promotes effective written and oral expression.

Supporting courses allow students to acquire a general knowledge of the region by taking classes in a wide range of disciplines or to gain a deeper understanding of Latin America by focusing on one or two particular areas of interest.