Northern Illinois University
Center for Latino and Latin American Studies
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

The minor in Latino and Latin American studies provides students with detailed knowledge of the Latino experience in the United States as well as Latin American civilization, enriches the general educational experience of students, and offers several practical applications. It prepares future teachers to lecture in Latino and Latin American studies and provides them with knowledge of the cultural heritage of their Latino students. The minor also provides other future professionals with the knowledge to maximize their job performance in regions with Latino populations. Latino students enrolled in the minor also acquire a broader understanding of their history and culture. The eighteen semester hours required for the minor must come from at least two departments, with no more than twelve semester hours from one department. Students participating in the Latino/Latin American Studies minor may apply up to nine semester hours from their major toward the minor.

Students Testimonials

"The LATS minor has expanded my experience as a history major. It has provided me with classes in Latin American history, which is something I never had growing up. I was able to obtain my minor very easily because they were history classes that also fulfilled my major's requirements! I was able to meet amazing faculty and history students who assisted me in my major as well."by Sandra Puebla, '19

"I gained understanding of Hispanic culture and the significance culture has in a person's life, especially so if they belong to that cultural group. I trained myself in a culture different than my own in order to become more successful in my career [psychology] through the understanding of both Spanish language and Hispanic culture."by Ryan Johnson, '19

"I chose the minor in Latino and Latin American studies to read articles and books written by Latino authors which would provide nuance and historical context to my political science major. This will benefit my career in the legal profession because the minor has strengthened my critical thinking skills and improved my writing abilities."by Laura Vivaldo Cholula, '19 and current NIU Law student

"Majoring in Spanish and minoring in Latino and Latin American Studies was one of the best decisions I made at NIU. I became familiar with Latin America, its rich history and culture. I believe that as a Spanish major it is important to have an understanding of both the language and the culture. America is not only the United States. Our country shares a border with the beautiful countries of Latin American. We cannot forget the southern countries that shaped us."by Suzanne Serrano, '19