The Latin American and Latino Studies Program (LALS) offers a major and a minor concentration in Latin American Area Studies and Latino Studies, offering students the opportunity to study the dynamic histories, societies, cultures, and institutions of Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as the diverse experiences and contributions of Latino communities in the United States.

Using interdisciplinary approaches from across the social sciences and humanities, students examine the region and its diasporas from varied perspectives. Courses explore issues such as identity and culture, political and economic institutions, social relations, and migration, and how these have changed across time and place.

The program develops skills in critical thinking, research, writing, and cultural competency that prepare students for graduate study and careers in education, public service, law, advocacy, business, and related fields. The LALS major may also contribute toward requirements for New York State certification to teach social studies in grades 7–12.