Latin American Studies

Minors are an important part of the undergraduate curriculum.  If students declare a minor by sophomore year, they can usually complete it in a timely manner.  Students should work with their advisor to determine if it is possible that the minor can be completed by graduation.  

To receive a minor, a student must complete at least 9 credit hours of coursework distinct from their major(s) and from other minors, and students must complete more than 50% of the coursework required for the minor at Canisius. Please note that “ancillary/supporting” courses required for a major may still count as distinct courses as long as the remaining coursework still meets the 30 credit-hours required for a major. For more information about minor policies, please see the Declaring Majors and Minors page in the catalog.

Learning Goals & Objectives

Student Learning Goal 1

Latin American Studies minor allows students to think critically about Latin American societies, governments, and policies through both historical and contemporary lenses.

Students will:

• Objective A: Interpret important political concepts, theories, events, actors, and processes pertinent to Latin American analyses;
• Objective B: Apply knowledge of Latin American history and diverse cultures to contemporary social and political themes;
• Objective C: Identify regional political, social, and economic trends and the impact of colonialism, globalization, and U.S. foreign policy towards Latin America.

Student Learning Goal 2

Latin American Studies minor curriculum uses research to articulate ideas and arguments clearly and effectively in the field of Latin American Studies.

Students will:

• Objective A: Integrate knowledge from different academic disciplines into a coherent paper, presentation or project that addresses a topic in Latin American Studies;
• Objective B: Conduct independent research and follow appropriate formats in documenting resources;
• Objective C: Communicate information, ideas, and research results effectively.

Student Learning Goal 3

Latin American Studies minor provides students with the skills to communicate in a modern language that is appropriate to the area of studies and necessary for professional success.

 Students will:

• Objective A: Display competency of a Latin American language at the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) intermediate level.