B.A. in Latin American Studies

Entry Requirements for International Students

1. Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to demonstrate a strong academic background. The University of Arizona looks for a percentage ranging from 60% to 70% in the students' previous academic records. 

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Applicants should achieve a minimum overall score of 79 on the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test).
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The university requires a minimum overall score of 53 in the PTE Academic.
      
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Prospective students must attain a minimum overall score of 105 in the Duolingo English Test.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

A B.A. in Latin American Studies from the University of Arizona opens up diverse and impactful career pathways. Graduates emerge with a comprehensive understanding of the region's cultures, histories, and contemporary challenges, making them well-suited for roles that contribute to diplomacy, development, advocacy, and cross-cultural exchange. The program's interdisciplinary approach and language proficiency component uniquely position graduates to navigate complex issues and make meaningful contributions to Latin American affairs.

1. International Relations Specialist: Graduates with a B.A. in Latin American Studies can pursue careers as international relations specialists, working for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international corporations. They may focus on diplomatic relations, policy analysis, and promoting cross-cultural understanding between Latin America and other regions.

2. Foreign Service Officer: The program prepares graduates for roles as foreign service officers, representing the United States in Latin American countries. They may work in U.S. embassies, addressing diplomatic issues, assisting American citizens abroad, and facilitating cultural exchanges between the U.S. and Latin America.

3. Development Consultant: Graduates can become development consultants, collaborating with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or international development agencies. They may work on projects related to economic development, education, healthcare, and sustainable practices, contributing to positive change within Latin American communities.

4. Human Rights Advocate: With a deep understanding of Latin American cultures and social issues, graduates may choose to work as human rights advocates. They can collaborate with human rights organizations, addressing issues such as social justice, indigenous rights, and fair labor practices in the region.

5. Cultural Liaison Officer: Graduates may pursue roles as cultural liaison officers, facilitating cultural exchange programs and fostering understanding between Latin American communities and organizations in the United States. This role may involve organizing cultural events, educational programs, and promoting artistic collaborations.

6. Journalist/Correspondent: Those interested in media and communication can become journalists or correspondents specializing in Latin American affairs. They may work for news outlets, reporting on regional developments, conducting interviews, and contributing to a broader understanding of Latin American issues.

7. Educator/Researcher: Graduates can enter the field of education as teachers or researchers, sharing their knowledge of Latin American cultures, histories, and contemporary issues. They may teach at schools, universities, or research institutions, contributing to the academic discourse on Latin America.

8. Trade Analyst: With a focus on economic aspects of Latin America, graduates can pursue careers as trade analysts, monitoring and analyzing trade relations between the U.S. and Latin American countries. They may work for government agencies, trade associations, or international business consulting firms.

9. Tourism Manager: Graduates can explore careers in tourism management, particularly in companies or destinations focused on Latin American travel. They may develop and implement tourism strategies, ensuring sustainable and culturally sensitive tourism practices in the region.

10. Environmental Specialist: With a growing emphasis on environmental issues, graduates can become environmental specialists, working on conservation and sustainable development projects in Latin America. They may collaborate with environmental organizations or government agencies to address ecological challenges.

11. Language Services Professional: Proficiency in Spanish and Portuguese equips graduates for roles in language services, such as translation, interpretation, or language coaching. They may provide language support in diverse settings, including business, healthcare, and government, facilitating effective communication.