The Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Florida (UF) invites applications from well-prepared and high-achieving UF students who seek to complete a combined BA/BS and MA in Latin American Studies. This program allows talented students to develop their expertise in Latin American Studies, strengthen their preparation for future study and careers related to Latin America and the Caribbean, and to enhance their marketability to potential employers.
A total of 12 credits (normally 4 classes) will double-count towards the undergraduate and MA degrees, thus allowing completion of both degrees in a shorter time, saving one or two semesters. In most cases, the combined degrees can be completed in 5 years of full-time study. The undergraduate degree need not be in Latin American Studies, but applicants should have successfully completed at least 12 credits in 3000-4000 level courses with at least 25% Latin American content (including at least one LAS 4935) by the time they begin the combined degree program. Undergraduate financial aid can be applied toward the costs of graduate coursework in the first year of the combined degree (students will be responsible for paying the tuition differential between undergraduate and graduate credits).
Eligibility Requirements
3.5 GPA, at least 12 credits of 3000–4000 level Latin American-content courses (including at least one LAS 4935), intermediate proficiency in Spanish, Portuguese, or Haitian Creole (as determined by a standardized exam, individual assessment by UF faculty, or coursework—i.e. Spanish through SPN 2240, Portuguese through POR 3242, or Haitian Creole through HAI 2200); and satisfactory GRE scores. The GRE should be taken no later than the fall semester of the fourth or final year of undergraduate studies.
Application Deadline
December 1 of your junior year (for the ensuing fall semester). Applicants should submit a statement of purpose (two pages), two letters of recommendation, and transcripts to be considered for admission to the combined degree program. Acceptance to the combined degree program entails provisional admission to the MA program in Latin American Studies. Formal admission to the MA program is contingent on satisfactory GRE scores and continuing satisfactory academic performance.
The application is found at the following:
www.admissions.ufl.edu/pdf/combdegreerequest.pdf
For MALAS program requirements, review our MALAS page here.
Assistant Director of Academic Affairs (MALAS Advising):
Clate Korsant
319F Grinter Hall
Gainesville, FL 32611-5530
E-mail: ckorsant@latam.ufl.edu
Tel: 352-273-4724