Why study with LACS
LACS is widely recognized for its research and teaching that conceptually bridges the study of Latin America and the Caribbean with Latina/o Studies. LACS prepares its students to comprehend the complexity and richness of the transnational Latina/o experience, to develop an understanding for distinctive histories and development of Latin American and Caribbean nations, and to mature into socially conscious and critically informed individuals with the necessary skills to professionally succeed and positively influence society.
Interdisciplinary approaches, new research methods, a rethinking of concepts such as nation, borders and racial and cultural identity were needed to understand the contemporary reality of Latinidad. LACS prepares students in all these areas. LACS majors have embarked on careers in education, media, law, social services, non-profit advocacy and social justice organizations, health care, public policy, translation, urban planning, and higher education.
Why LACS is important
People of Latin American or Caribbean origins make up about 18.3% of the population of the United States, about 60 million people. This makes the United States the third largest Latin American nation after Brazil and Mexico. While the vast majority of Latinx live permanently in the United States, their racial and ethnic identity, linguistic practices, creative and artistic expressions and social values are nourished by the cultural traditions and historical legacies of their countries of origin.
Globalization, advances in social media and communication technologies, expanded affordable air travel have created virtual translocal and transnational Latina/o communities. Because of the profound demographic changes in the U.S., it is increasingly more important for students to develop an understanding of the diverse cultures and histories, and the interconnectness of Latin America and Latinx communities.
Publications by Latin American, Caribbean and U.S. Latino Studies Faculty
Recent News
Collection of Handmade Books from Latin America, the Caribbean Provides Tactile Learning Experience
Over 200 handmade books from Latin America and the Caribbean are now permanently on display in the M.E. Grenander Department of Special Collections & Archives. The books, known as libros-arte, utilize innovative papermaking processes and found objects such as fabric, flowers, sand and other materials to tell a story.
UAlbany Spotlights Senior Faculty for Research, Creative Arts and Scholarship
As part of Research and Entrepreneurship week, the University at Albany hosted a senior faculty recognition ceremony on Oct. 17.
UAlbany Students Celebrate Lost Loved Ones with Day of the Dead Altars
UAlbany students celebrate Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), a holiday widely observed in Mexico and Hispanic cultures around Nov. 1 each year, with the creation of altars decorated with photos and offerings to deceased loved ones.
Seven UAlbany Faculty Win Fulbright Scholar Awards
Seven University at Albany faculty and staff members have received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award to conduct research and teach in their respective fields across Europe, South America, Central America and Asia during the 2023-2024 academic year.
Noteworthy: Research grants, awards and publications
The latest developments on University at Albany faculty and staff who are receiving research grants, awards and other noteworthy attention.
Department of Latin American, Caribbean and U.S. Latino Studies, College of Arts and Sciences
Social Science 250
1400 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12222
United States
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By Phone: Monday - Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm
No On Site Hours