Program Requirements
Core Courses (8 credits)
Required:
GRS IR 713 Latin America: Past & Present (4 credits)
One research methods course chosen from the following list (4 credits):
GRS AR 891 Graduate Seminar on Archaeological Theory
GRS AR 751 Seminar in Mesoamerican Archaeology
CAS LS 577 Topics in Hispanic Thought and Criticism (this course is offered for both seniors and graduate students)
GRS IR 601 Fundamentals of International Relations
GRS IR 602 Quantitative Analysis for Global Affairs
GRS IR 603 Economics for Global Policy
GRS PO 840 Political Analysis
GRS PO 841 Quantitative Research Methods
GRS SO 702 Proseminar: Sociological Methods
GRS SO 708 Contemporary Sociological Theory
GRS SO 712 Qualitative MethodsElectives (24 credits)
Students take six courses related to Latin America, chosen with the approval of the Latin American Studies Program director. At least one course must stem from the fields of history or the social sciences, and at least one course must stem from the fields of literature, culture, or art history. More information on graduate elective courses here.*
*Actual year to year course offerings vary depending on faculty availability. Most classes are taught once per year, but some may be taught less frequently. For the most up-to-date course offer information, please check the BU Student Link.
Language Requirement
Students must demonstrate a high level of competence in either Spanish or Portuguese, including the capability to read, write, and speak the language with sufficient proficiency to understand and be understood. Competence in the foreign language of the students’ choosing is determined by examination by BU language instructors. Students must pass this examination in order to complete the degree.
Master’s Paper
Students write a Master’s Paper (commonly referred to as an MA Paper) as the capstone component of their degree. The paper may take one of two forms: either a traditional research paper or a policy paper. Students are given broad latitude in selecting topics and approaches, in consultation with their advisors.
All MA Papers must be defended orally in front of a panel of three professors, chosen by the Pardee School (one of the three professors will be the student’s adviser). The purpose of the oral examination is to test the student’s knowledge in the area of research related to the MA paper as well as the student’s ability to discuss that knowledge at length in a clear and compelling manner.