The Master of Arts in Latin American Studies degree program allows students to acquire expertise in multiple aspects of Latin America. Taught by international recognized faculty at The University of Texas at Dallas and building on the dynamic interdisciplinary structure of the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology the master’s program has an integrated curriculum that connects literary, historical, cultural and visual studies. 

Students in the master’s program elect either a professional option (coursework only) or research option (coursework plus a capstone project). Both options require students to demonstrate proficiency in an approved foreign language and to complete an approved internship or study abroad. The research option is especially relevant for those who plan to pursue doctoral study. 

Benefits

The Latin American studies master’s program ensures that students gain a broad understanding of their chosen field or discipline, apply their knowledge in new, creative ways and communicate and work effectively in collaborative environments. 

Other benefits include: 

• World-Class Faculty: The program is led by faculty of the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology who are widely cited experts in their respective fields. 
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses in the Latin American studies master’s program will introduce students to new ideas, methodologies and competencies while preparing them to succeed in both public and private sectors. 
• Location: Situated in the greater Dallas region — recently rated by Forbes magazine as the #1 “Best City for Jobs” — UT Dallas provides students with easy access to employers and internship opportunities, not to mention a large and supportive alumni population. 

Career Opportunities

In addition to law schools and PhD programs, graduates of the Latin American studies master’s program are well-prepared for positions in both public and private sectors, such as: 

• Teacher/educator 
• Writer and editor 
• Historian 
• Legal/policy administrator 
• Nonprofit manager 

Career settings may include higher education, nonprofits, cultural and historical organizations, government agencies, international development organizations, publishing houses, museums and archives, business/corporate entities and independent consulting. 

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Deadlines and Requirements

Please take note of all application deadlines and visit the Apply Now webpage to begin the application process. See the Latin American studies program website for additional information. 

 Applicants to the Latin American studies master’s degree program should have: 

• A baccalaureate degree (BA or MA) from an accredited institution of higher education in an arts and humanities field, along with demonstrated interest and experience in Latin American studies. 
• A grade point average (GPA) of 3.3 out of a 4.0 scale, especially in upper-division undergraduate or graduate coursework. 
• Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit 3 letters of recommendation from individual able to judge the candidate’s potential for success in the master’s degree program. 
• Admissions Essay: Applicants must submit a 650-word narrative essay, which should be reflective rather than factual. The essay should address the applicant’s academic interests and goals and indicate how the master’s program would enable such pursuits. 
• International applicants must submit a TOEFL score of at least 80 on the internet-based test.  Scores must be less than two years old. See the Graduate Catalog for additional information regarding English proficiency requirements for international applicants.