Careers in Latin American Studies

Sample Occupations

A major in Latin American Studies can prepare students for various occupations that involve understanding, analyzing, and engaging with Latin American culture, history, politics, and society. Some potential occupations for students with a major in Latin American Studies include:

• International Relations Specialist: Students can work as international relations specialists focusing on Latin American affairs for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international businesses.
• Foreign Service Officer/Diplomat: Graduates can pursue careers as diplomats or foreign service officers, representing their country’s interests in Latin American countries through diplomacy, negotiations, and international relations.
• Intercultural Specialist: Graduates can work as intercultural specialists or consultants, facilitating cross-cultural understanding and communication between Latin American and non-Latin American individuals or organizations.
• Non-profit Organization Manager: Students can work in non-profit organizations focused on Latin American issues, such as human rights, environmental conservation, public health, or economic development.
• International Development Worker: Graduates can work in international development organizations, implementing projects and programs aimed at promoting social, economic, and political development in Latin American countries.
• Foreign Correspondent/Journalist: Students with strong writing and communication skills can work as foreign correspondents or journalists covering news and events in Latin America for media outlets, newspapers, or online platforms.
• Educator/Teacher: Graduates can pursue careers in education as teachers or professors specializing in Latin American history, literature, culture, or language at secondary schools, colleges, or universities.
• Cultural Liaison/Coordinator: Students can work as cultural liaisons or coordinators, organizing cultural exchange programs, events, or exhibitions that promote understanding and appreciation of Latin American culture.
• Translator/Interpreter: Graduates with proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese can work as translators or interpreters, facilitating communication between individuals or organizations that speak different languages.
• Tourism Specialist: Students can work in the tourism industry, promoting and organizing tours, travel packages, or cultural experiences that showcase the diverse attractions and heritage of Latin American countries.

Types of Employers

Graduates with a major in Latin American Studies possess valuable skills and knowledge that are sought after by a variety of employers across different sectors. Some potential employers for individuals with a major in Latin American Studies include:

• Government Agencies: Departments of State, Commerce, and Defense often seek individuals with expertise in Latin American affairs for roles such as foreign service officers, diplomats, intelligence analysts, or trade specialists.
• International Organizations: Organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and Organization of American States may hire individuals with Latin American Studies backgrounds for positions related to development, diplomacy, policy analysis, and program management.
• Educational Institutions: Colleges, universities, and language schools may employ Latin American Studies graduates as educators, researchers, academic advisors, or program coordinators in departments of Latin American Studies, international studies, anthropology, history, or languages.
• Media and Journalism Outlets: News agencies, newspapers, magazines, and online publications often seek journalists, reporters, editors, and content creators with expertise in Latin American affairs to cover news, events, and cultural developments in the region.
• Travel and Tourism Industry: Travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, resorts, and airlines may employ Latin American Studies graduates to develop travel itineraries, lead tours, provide cultural insights, or manage international guest relations.
• Research Institutes and Think Tanks: Policy research institutes, think tanks and academic centers focused on Latin American issues often recruit individuals with strong analytical skills and research experience to conduct studies, write reports, and contribute to policy discussions.
• Cultural and Arts Organizations: Museums, cultural centers, arts institutions, and community organizations may seek individuals with expertise in Latin American culture, history, and art to curate exhibits, develop educational programs, or organize cultural events.
• International Trade and Business Consulting Firms: Consulting firms specializing in international trade, market analysis, and business development may hire Latin American Studies graduates to provide expertise on Latin American markets, regulatory environments, and business practices.
• Translation and Interpretation Services: Language skills acquired during a Latin American Studies program can be valuable for careers in translation, interpretation, and localization services for businesses, government agencies, media outlets, and non-profit organizations operating in Latin America.
• Public Policy and Advocacy Organizations: Advocacy groups, lobbying firms, and public policy organizations focused on Latin American issues, such as immigration reform, human rights, indigenous rights, or environmental protection, may employ graduates with expertise in the region’s politics, policies, and social movements.
• Global Health Organizations: International health organizations, public health agencies, and non-profit groups working on health initiatives in Latin America may seek individuals with expertise in public health policy, epidemiology, disease prevention, and healthcare systems in the region.
• Environmental and Conservation Organizations: Environmental NGOs, conservation groups, and sustainability initiatives focused on protecting natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems in Latin America may recruit individuals with knowledge of environmental issues, climate change, and conservation strategies.
• Cultural Exchange Programs and International Education: Organizations facilitating cultural exchange programs, study abroad experiences, and international education initiatives may employ Latin American Studies graduates to coordinate programs, manage partnerships, and support student exchanges between Latin America and other regions.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Departments: Companies with corporate social responsibility initiatives and sustainability goals may hire Latin American Studies graduates to work on community development projects, environmental sustainability programs, and social impact initiatives in Latin American communities.
• Freelance and Entrepreneurial Ventures: Latin American Studies graduates with strong communication skills, cultural competency, and entrepreneurial spirit may choose to pursue freelance work, consulting opportunities, or start their businesses related to Latin American affairs, such as cultural tourism, language services, or international trade consulting.