What Can I Do With a Major in Latin American Studies/Spanish?

A Latin American Studies or Spanish Major opens a world of possibilities.

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Latin American Studies places an emphasis on knowledge of the Latin American culture. 

If you choose this major, your advisors will encourage you to join a study abroad program in a Spanish-speaking country.  That's because more and more employers value applicants who know another language, culture, or country. When you graduate, your knowledge will give you an edge as you pursue positions in business, education, government, and social work.

Source: Rutgers University

Career Options, Employers, and Transferable Skills

*Some may require further education or specialization.

Admissions Counselor
Advertising Executive
Arbitrator
Archivist
Attorney
Business Manager
CIA/FBI Agent
Clergy Member
Community Affairs Specialist
Conflict Resolution Specialist
Consultant
Consumer Advocate
Copywriter
Corporate Trainer
Counselor
Cultural Affairs Officer
Customer Relations Officer/Representative
Customs/Immigration Officer
Editor/Writer
Employer Relations Specialist
Equal Opportunity Representative
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Student Advisor
Government Agency Administrator
Historic Preservation Specialist
Historic Site Administrator
Human Resources Specialist
Import/Export Specialist
International Banker
International Conference Planner
International Relations Specialist
International Trade Specialist
Interpreter
Journalist
Lobbyist
Market Research Specialist
Missionary Worker
Museum Curator
Non-profit Administrator
Parole Officer
Politician
Professor/Teacher
Psychologist
Public Administrator
Public Information Officer
Public Policy Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Publications Specialist
Social Worker
Translator
Travel Consultant
Writer/Author

Private & Non-Profit Organizations

Advertising Agencies/Public Relations Firms
Airlines/Airports/Travel Agencies
Amnesty International
Archives
Banks
Book Publishers
Civic Organizations
Clinics
Colleges/Universities
Consulting Firms
Consumer Organizations
Cultural Organization
Entertainment Firms
Historic Sites/Historic Societies
Hospitals/Clinics
Hotels/Restaurants/Resorts
International Exchange Programs
Law Firms
Libraries
Manufacturing Firms
Museums
Newspapers/Magazines
Professional Associations
Public Interest Groups
School Systems/American Schools Abroad
Social Service Agencies
Television/Radio Stations
United Nations

Government Agencies

Agency for International Development
Bureau of Intelligence and Research
Bureau of International Labor Affairs
CIA/FBI
Civil Rights Commission
Consumer Affairs Office
Department of Commerce
Foreign Commercial Service
Foreign Service
Immigration and Naturalization Service
International Trade Administration
Library of Congress
National Endowment for the Humanities
National Security Agency
Office of International Affairs
Office of International Education
Office of International Policy and Programs
Peace Corps
Smithsonian Institution
Telecommunications Satellite Organization
US Customs Service
US Department of State
US Information Agency

General Skills
Understands and communicates well in a second language
Possesses excellent command of the English language
Learns technical terminology
Identifies a problem, reviews related information, develops and evaluates options, and implements a solution
Actively looks for ways to help people
Talks, gives speeches, or speaks in a group to convey information, explain ideas, or give instructions
Composes and communicates ideas in written form
Pays attention to what other people are saying, and taking time to understand the points being made
Makes appropriate use of equipment and materials to get a job done
Understands complex written paragraphs, instructions, or reports
Uses logic to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems

Translation Skills
Translates written communication from one language to another
Pays attention to detail
Possesses excellent research skills

Interpretation Skills
Translates oral and written communication from one language to another
Makes quick and continuous judgments concerning spoken words
Speaks clearly, accurately, and quickly
Works well under pressure

Experiential Learning

  • Working with and consulting on visa approval
  • Working in a foreign language lab as a student assistant
  • Broadcasting daily community service radio program(s) in another language
  • Working in a packaging division of a manufacturing organization and developing directions in another language
  • Teaching language skills to elementary students
  • Serving as a translator for community service organizations when dealing with clients that speak other languages

Professional Associations

Enhancing Your Employability

Here are some ways to improve your job prospects:

  • Join relevant student organizations to develop leadership skills.
  • Participate in internships and field experience placements.
  • Participate in a study abroad opportunity.
  • Become active in alumni and/or mentor networks.
  • Plan on a graduate degree for advancement.
  • Take part in mock interview opportunities.

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