Undergraduate

Latin American and Caribbean Studies (LACS) is an interdisciplinary program for students who want to engage critical issues in the social sciences and humanities through deep immersion in the histories, cultures, economies, politics, and natural environments of Latin America and the Caribbean.

CLAS BA programs offer an exceptional opportunity to gain expertise in one of the world's most dynamic and diverse regions. Classes taught by award-winning faculty provide in-depth, region-specific training in a variety of fields. Language classes build fluency in Spanish and Portuguese through intensive verbal and written instruction and practice. Study abroad programs and international work opportunities give students the chance to complement their educational experiences in Chicago through living and learning across Latin America. Our undergraduate alumni go on to excel in diverse careers fields and graduate programs throughout the world.  

The Center for Latin American Studies supplements the program's academic offerings with dozens of public events each year, which help to build a strong Latin American Studies community. We also aim to expose students to Chicago’s role as a significantly Latin American city and to prepare them for careers in government, journalism, law, business, teaching, the nonprofit sector, or academia.