Latin American and Hemispheric Studies Major

The Latin American and hemispheric studies major begins with a foundation that builds intellectual skill in the fields that are important to international issues: economics, history, political science and anthropology. It complements that core with courses specific to the region, including local politics, security of the Southern Cone, human movement and the region's relationships with its northern neighbors. All Elliott School students must also complete the General Bachelor of Arts requirements in addition to their major requirements.

What You'll Study

photo: three students huddle together during lecture, attentively looking at a laptop screen that the student sitting in the middle is holding

You’ll begin with a foundation in political science, economics, history, and anthropology that prepares you to deal with issues that cross political and cultural boundaries. From this base, you’ll explore a wide variety of subjects beginning with international politics and policy, moving through trade and economics, development and human rights, culture, and regional studies. All of our students take Spanish or Portuguese and many of our students pursue this study through a semester or a year abroad.

Requirements

Opportunities 

icon: a passport
 
 

Study Abroad

With more than 70% of Elliott students studying abroad, there are an abundance of programs and countries that you can choose to enhance what you’ve learned in D.C. Our students have traveled across remote areas of China, through major cities like Hong Kong, Seoul, and Taipei, and in other areas of the region and world to enhance their knowledge.

Find a study abroad program

 

icon: a graduation cap and a briefcase
 

Internships

While study abroad enhances understanding, you don’t have to leave D.C. to get global experience. Our campus is just blocks from the White House and State Department, a metro ride away from Capitol Hill and close to embassies who call the city home. With GW students finding more than 12,000 internship opportunities each year, you can find something that helps you meet your goals.

Find an Internship