Program Overview

Latin American Studies

The Latin American studies major is a dynamic, interdisciplinary academic program focusing on Latin America and the Caribbean: their peoples, cultures, society, languages, literature, traditions, history, economy, and relations with other areas.

art gallery showing Latin American art including sculpture, murals.
The Allen Memorial Art Museum’s celebration of contemporary Latin American art featured an off-site exhibition of sculpture, graphics, and video by the artist collective known as assume vivid astro focus (avaf). Spearheaded by Eli Sudbrack, a Brazilian-born artist based in New York, avaf is known for creating large, multimedia installations. Campy photographic images culled from various pop culture sources are spliced together with neon colors and psychedelic animation.
Photo credit: John Seyfried

Program Facts

Program Director

Kristina Mani,
Associate Professor of Politics

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Winter Term

Oberlin’s four-week winter term in January encourages students to discover the value of self-directed education. You may pursue individual or group projects that are directly linked to your field of study or explore opportunities unrelated to your major. Complete your project on or off campus.

Study Abroad

The opportunity to study away from campus is an important time to broaden your education and to support an area of study or academic interest. Study abroad programs are offered in Spain, Latin America, the Caribbean, and many other regions.

Why Study Latin American Studies at Oberlin?

40+ Variety of Courses
7 Associated Faculty
12 Study Away Programs

Sample Courses

  • HIST 109 - Latin American History: Conquest and Colony (4 credits)
  • CAST 201 - Latinas/os in Comparative Perspective (4 credits)
  • AAST 347 - Culture, History, and Identity: Caribbean Literature and the Politics of Survival (4 credits)
  • HISP 317 - Survey of Latin American Literature I: Defining Latin America (4 credits)
Curriculum and requirements

La Casa Hispánica

La Casa Hispánica, officially known as Harvey House or Spanish House, is a themed-based residence hall for students interested in learning and speaking Spanish. The Hispanic studies and Latin American studies departments often sponsor functions for students eager to practice and improve their Spanish-speaking skills. Celebrations, guest lecturers, mini concerts, birthday parties, special meals, and more take place here. Most in Spanish.

students gathered around a table eating food
Students gather in the Spanish House Lounge to color and enjoy snacks as part of Art Therapy Night.
Photo credit: Pang Fei Chiang ’19

Latin American Studies Faculty

Our faculty are both scholars and teachers who make important contributions to their disciplines through writing and research. Areas of interest include Mexican and Caribbean literary and cultural studies; Latin American militaries; literature, film, and politics of Central America; and indigenous peoples. They are committed to undergraduate education and teach everything from first-year seminars to advanced courses.

Explore Faculty within Latin American Studies

Latin American Studies News

A Conversation with Baron Pineda

October 17, 2018

A cultural anthropologist specializing in human rights and indigenous peoples, Associate Professor of Anthropology and Latin American Studies Baron Pineda is one of seven scholars advising Facebook on the challenges of enforcing community standards.
Baron Pineda seated for portrait
View all Latin American Studies news