Graduate Programs
Master of Arts in Latin American and Caribbean Studies
The Master of Arts in Latin American and Caribbean Studies (MALACS) is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to design their courses based
on their own research and career interests. The master of arts in Latin American and
Caribbean studies students study the religious, political, economic, social and cultural
processes shaping Latin America, the Caribbean, as well as those of Latinos and Latinas
in the United States. Graduates acquire expertise that allows them to become leaders
in a variety of fields, including government, non-governmental organizations, education,
business, and human and social services, among others. Possible specializations include
comparative politics, sociology, history, Africana Studies, international relations,
foreign policy, Public Health, Social Science Education, literature, linguistics,
cultural anthropology, communication, culture and media studies, among others. Full-time
students typically complete the program in two years.
A joint master's with the History Department of the Universidad del Norte, in Barranquilla,
Colombia, is possible at no additional cost, allowing students in this degree program
to spend one year at one of the top universities of Colombia and Latin America and
earn a Colombian master's degree in History in addition to their degree from USF.
The joint USF – UNINORTE master's typically takes three years to complete.
Admissions
The School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies at the University of South Florida offers a master's in Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino studies. For a listing of the admission requirements, students should consult the Graduate Catalog.
Students must apply for admission through the Office of Graduate Admissions. The School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies admits for the fall and spring semesters.
*International students should review the Office of Admissions International Students website for additional information and requirements.
*International students are also encouraged to contact the Office of International Services for information on visas, international travel, etc.
Program Requirements
For the Master's in Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino studies degree requirements, students should consult the Graduate Catalog. Students should adhere to the requirements within the Graduate Catalog under which they were admitted.
- Degree Requirements Beginning 2023-2024 Catalog
*Students can elect another catalog following the one they were admitted under. More information on this policy, and other policies, can be found in the Graduate Catalog.
*Students must request approval from the graduate director for any course not pre-approved and listed under the degree in the Graduate Catalog.
Financial Assistance
Each year SIGS hires a small number of MA-level graduate assistants to support its undergraduate classes. This is the only form of financial assistance offered by the department. To learn more about how to apply for one of these positions, please visit our graduate assistantships page.
To learn about other financial assistance opportunities, please visit USF’s Office of Financial Aid and the Office of Graduate Studies Funding website.
Forms/Information
School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies Graduate Resources
Independent Study Contract
Thesis Defense Announcement
Non-Thesis Literature Review Guidelines
Thesis and Literature Review Forms
Master's Thesis ETD Checklist
Graduate Student Supervisory Committee Appointment Form
Electronic Thesis & Dissertation Certificate of Approval Form
Electronic Thesis & Dissertation Dates and Deadlines
For further information or questions, please fill out this form.