FAQ’s

Will this major be marketable to future employers?

  • Absolutely! Engaging in an interdisciplinary field of study such as LACIS shows prospective employers that you are well-versed in many different (but related) areas (i.e., political science, history, anthropology, foreign languages, cultural studies, etc.) which translate to flexibility and the potential to adapt easily.
  • Having study abroad experience, foreign language skills, understanding of cultural and geographic nuances coupled with sets you apart from the rest of the applicants. After completing the LACIS major, you are equipped to live as an informed global citizen, something that more and more employers are seeking.

What kind of job can I find after completing this degree?

 Recent graduates of this program are engaged in the following types of employment:

  • Teaching English in Spain
  • Teaching English in Latin America
  • Attending law school to study immigration law
  • Teaching bilingual education
  • Teach for America volunteer
  • Peace Corps Volunteer
  • Graduate School

The aforementioned list just offers a snapshot of possibilities. We have alumni working in the public and private sector and would be happy to put you in touch with specific alumni if you have further questions.

 How is this major different than a BA in Spanish or Portuguese?

  • What makes this major attractive to many students is the fact that it requires an advanced level of Spanish or Portuguese coursework, but the focus is put on a self-selected “area of concentration.” The area of concentration allows students to complete coursework related to a specific field of interest such as “Latin American Politics” or “Fair Trade Business Practices in the Caribbean.” Not only will you have advanced language skills, but you will also be kick-starting your career by allowing you to delve deeper into a concentration that you are passionate about. The area of concentration allows you to delve deeper into a specific focus, as compared to taking classes that provide you with broad knowledge on the many topics that exist in the LACIS region.
  • Students who are most interested in learning the mechanics of Spanish or Portuguese or wish to be a translator, etc., than a BA in Spanish or Portuguese may be a better fit.

Would coursework taken abroad count towards this major? 

Yes, most definitely.  It is always advisable to meet with the undergraduate advisor, Sarah Ripp, to discuss which requirements you still need to complete and how that relates to the coursework available at your selected institution.

What sets LACIS apart from other majors on campus?

  • We offer students a lot of flexibility – you choose your own area of concentration so you are studying what you want and what interests you the most.
  • We have a rich outreach program which brings distinguished lecturers and performers to campus during the academic year, as well as a weekly lunchtime lecture series featuring a variety of interesting topics.
  • We offer students the opportunity to apply for our International Travel Grant which provides funds for internships or volunteer projects conducted in Latin America, the Caribbean, or Iberian Peninsula. Domestic projects are acceptable as long as they are related to the LACIS field of study.
  • We offer honors in the major.

Please contact LACIS’ Undergraduate Advisor, Sarah Ripp at skripp@wisc.edu with any questions.