Latin American Studies
Bachelor of Arts
Investigate the historical, cultural and economic forces that shape a complex, vibrant region. As a Latin American Studies student at Bucknell, you'll chart your own course of discovery and research under the guidance of faculty drawn from 11 social science and humanities departments and programs.
You will learn about Latin America broadly, including Latinx populations in the United States, Europe and elsewhere. Our interdisciplinary program will help you develop skills and regional knowledge that will complement your other studies and your future career path. You can even consider these questions in conjunction with another discipline through a double-major or minor.
As a student in Latin American Studies, you will be strongly encouraged to travel or study abroad in the region. The Bucknell in Nicaragua program will take you to Managua to engage in service learning projects, and many other opportunities in the region are available through the Bucknell Office of Global Education and the Bucknell Office of Civic Engagement. You will also have the opportunity to conduct independent research projects with our affiliated faculty members.
Upon graduation, you will be prepared to enter a wide range of careers, professional schools and graduate studies.
Get Involved
Our Latin American studies program is a member of the International Latin American Studies Association and the Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs. Both groups advocate for the education and preservation of Latin American culture and the degree programs that study it.
Student organizations such as Organization of Hispanic & Latin American Students offer opportunities to learn more about Latin America's diverse cultures and to participate in activities focused on Latin American issues.
Language Placement Exam
Whether you intend to continue a language you studied in high school or wish to explore a new one, an online placement test is required to enroll in language courses. Your exam score and academic record will inform the final placement decision. We recommend that all students with past language experience take the placement test as early as possible. First-year students will be automatically directed to the exam during course registration. Sophomores, juniors and seniors should contact the academic department prior to course registration.
Study Abroad
Immerse Yourself in Culture
Latin American studies majors are encouraged to spend at least one semester of study in Latin America.
Bucknell students have studied in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic and Mexico.