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Why Latin American Studies at Iowa?
Discover the cultures, politics, and histories that shape Latin America today.
Explore undergraduate programs in Latin American studies
Enrich your academic journey
Studying Spanish at Iowa is an interdisciplinary journey through art, language, and social change. You'll connect classroom learning with real-world issues across Latin America and the Caribbean and attend film series, lectures, and events featuring leading Latin American scholars.
Research and scholarship
Explore articles, books, and creative works published by Latin American Studies faculty at the University of Iowa.
Study abroad
Practice your language skills, expose yourself to world cultures, and expand your worldview.
Internships
Apply what you learn in the program, gain real world experience, and pursue your future career path.
Why pursue Latin American studies at Iowa?
Explore Latin America through language, culture, and politics—an education that spans continents.
Latin American Studies invites undergraduates to engage deeply with the histories, arts, languages, and social dynamics of Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. This interdisciplinary program brings together courses from anthropology, political science, history, Spanish and Portuguese, and more—offering a well-rounded, global perspective. Whether you're passionate about culture, international affairs, or regional challenges, the curriculum equips you with the analytical tools to understand Latin America's complexity and its growing global influence.
Beyond the classroom, the program connects students with campus events, visiting scholars, and vibrant discussions on current issues. With faculty support and opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning, students gain both academic insight and real-world context. Since its founding, the program has fostered meaningful connections across departments and institutions, encouraging students to think critically, build language skills, and consider international careers in diplomacy, education, development, and beyond.
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Courses to choose from
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Year our program was established
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Build knowledge. Conduct research. Create new work. Stand out among your peers. You're going places, and it all starts here.
Latin American studies faculty

Amber Brian, PhD

Horacio Castellanos

Roxanna Curto, PhD

Armando Duarte, MFA

Mariola Espinosa, PhD

Claire Fox, PhD

Brian Gollnick, PhD

Joy Elizabeth Hayes, PhD

Ana Merino, PhD

Kristine Muñoz, PhD

Kathleen Newman, PhD
