Latin American Studies Graduate Program
Study Latin American with a multidisciplinary approach that combines literary, historical, cultural and visual analyses.
Master of Arts in Latin American Studies
The Master of Arts in Latin American Studies offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the history, cultures, and societies of Latin America. This program is designed for students who want to deepen their understanding of the region through a combination of historical, literary, cultural, and political studies. Whether preparing for doctoral studies, careers in international relations, education, or nonprofit organizations, students gain a rich, multifaceted perspective on Latin America and its global significance.
The program offers two options tailored to different goals. The research option includes coursework, foreign language proficiency, and a capstone project (either a research thesis or final project), making it an ideal path for students aiming for advanced academic research or doctoral study. Alternatively, the professional option emphasizes coursework and foreign language proficiency, allowing students to gain expertise without the requirements of a capstone. Both options encourage immersion in the region through study abroad or internships, providing valuable hands-on experience.
Students in the program benefit from mentorship by expert faculty with specialties across history, literature, culture, and political studies of Latin America. These scholars guide students as they develop critical analysis, research, and communication skills. Graduates emerge well-prepared to engage with complex issues, conduct interdisciplinary research, and contribute to fields requiring deep cultural and historical insight into Latin America.
| Program Type | Master’s |
| Format | On Campus – full- and part-time options are available |
| Estimated Time to Complete | 2-3 years |
| Semester Credit Hours | 33 |
Internship or Study Abroad
As part of the program, students may count hours in an approved study abroad immersion program or a comparable internship program established in partnership with UT Dallas and businesses and/or non-for-profit agencies in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
LATS 6390 Internship in Latin American Studies
Fact Sheet
Scholarships & Awards
Robert Plant Armstrong Endowed Scholarship Fund
Harry W. Bass Jr. Graduate Travel Award
Harry W. Bass Jr. Graduate Research Award
Betty and Gifford Johnson Travel Award
Nina and Thomas Lambert Scholarship/Fellowship
Edith O’Donnell Graduate Fellowship
Marvin and Kathleen Stone Scholarship/Fellowship
Research Opportunities
Six centers and institutes affiliated with the Bass School promote interdisciplinary research:
Discover Our Centers, Labs and Studios →
Our graduate students conduct and present research national and internationally.
See our graduate student accomplishments.
Faculty Mentors
Our faculty members will help you gain the knowledge, skills and support you need for a rewarding career. Meet our faculty.
Contact Information
Dr. Charles Hatfield
Associate Professor and Program Head
Phone: 972-883-2780
Email: charles.hatfield@utdallas.edu
Pia K. Jakobsson
Graduate Academic Advisor
Phone: 972-883-4706
Email: pia.jakobsson@utdallas.edu
Office: JO 4.128
Graduate Advising
Bass School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology
The University of Texas at Dallas, JO31
800 W Campbell Rd
Richardson, TX 75080-3021
Phone: 972-883-4706
Email: ahtgradvising@utdallas.edu
Office of Admission and Enrollment
800 West Campbell Road
Richardson, TX 75080-3021
972-883-2270 or 1-800-889-2443
admission@utdallas.edu
utdallas.edu/enroll