Overview

The Latin American Studies Certificate from Portland State University also offers several study abroad opportunities in Central and South American countries. If you have questions about the Latin American Studies major or certificate we encourage you to contact a CUPA professional advisor or the program faculty advisors Prof. Leopoldo Rodriguez and Prof. Shawn Smallman.

Latin America is a large region rich in history and culture, and it has been a melting pot of cultures and races well before the United States claimed the title. To the wealth of indigenous cultures that existed in the Americas when the Spaniards first arrived in 1492, we must add the cultural influence of millions of Africans brought to work as slaves on plantations and mines. In addition to Spanish, Portuguese and French colonizers, the region also saw a large influx of European immigrants, and in some countries, East Asian indentured laborers, late into the 19th century. The result is a melting pot of cultures that have not only lived side by side but also have intermingled to give birth to truly hybrid societies.

Faculty with degrees in Geography, History and Economics teach a diverse set of courses on topics such as the Amazon rainforest, environment and development, political conflicts and commodity chains in the region.

Career opportunities:

A certificate in Latin American Studies prepares students for a wide range of careers in the nonprofit, private, and government sectors. Graduates of our program have found opportunities all over the world in:

Graduate programs in Latin American Studies, International Affairs, Global Studies, Business, Political Science, Urban Studies, Public Health, etc.
Private-sector employers, including international businesses
Aid organizations such as the International Red Cross
Nonprofits focused on issues ranging from health to education, food systems, gender rights, sustainability, global issues, and more.
Business incubators and trade organizations
Government agencies, with a focus on international affairs
Journalism and media organizations

Whether you want to pursue a career overseas, work in the United States, or prepare for a graduate degree, take the first step with a Portland State University’s Latin American Studies degree or certificate.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

International Leadership and Change

Globalization, Representation and Difference in Media and Film

Global Studies

US and the World

Theory & Policy in International Development

Understanding the International Experience

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2025-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-08-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2025-09-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2026-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2026-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-03-05 00:00:00

Language

English

IELTS

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Duolingo English Test

110

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Credits

24 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Disciplines

American and Australasian studies View 544 other Bachelors in American and Australasian studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

IELTS

Free IELTS Mock Tests!

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

Check IELTS test dates and locations. Book an IELTS test now!

Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Portland State University and/or in United States, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

32019 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 32019 USD per year during 48 months.
National

32019 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 32019 USD per year during 48 months.
In-State

11859 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 11859 USD per year during 48 months.

Living costs for Portland

1271 - 2262 USD /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Latin American Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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