latin american and caribbean studies interdisciplinary graduate cluster

The Latin American and Caribbean Studies Interdisciplinary Graduate Program takes its cue from the steady growth that expertise in the region has undergone at Northwestern in recent years. Currently, Latin American and Caribbean Studies counts over two dozen faculty affiliates across Northwestern. This faculty has attracted a growing cohort of graduate students focusing on the study of the region, and various departments across the university have recently prioritized the recruitment of more students in this area. Latin American and Caribbean Studies has been very successful in recent years at bringing both of these groups together and has been active in the vigorous expansion of interest in this region at Northwestern. The Latin American and Caribbean Studies Interdisciplinary Graduate Program has three primary objectives. First, we will establish a core curriculum consisting of courses taught in any one of three core areas of inquiry, chosen because of their enduring interdisciplinary importance. Second, we will run an ongoing faculty and graduate colloquium in which students at all levels of the program will present their works in progress. Students who complete courses from each of these three areas, and attend the colloquium for credit, will be awarded a Graduate Certificate in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. And third, we will seek to strengthen formal ties between Northwestern and partner institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean, in order to promote graduate and faculty research and exchange.

There are many different ways for faculty and students to participate in the intellectual life of the cluster. Many cluster events, such as visiting lecturers and conferences, are open to all members of the University. Cluster seminars are open to graduate students across the University. We encourage all students, faculty and staff of Northwestern to learn more about our research and activities by participating in our public events.

Matriculating graduate students interested in participating in this cluster should indicate their interest when they apply to their respective graduate programs.  Information on cluster requirements for participating graduate students can be found by visiting the Requirements page for this cluster.

The first cohort of graduate students will be admitted to the cluster during the 2007-08 academic year.  This cohort will include incoming and current students who wish to participate in program activities. Students admitted directly to the cluster and a department are noted as "cluster fellows" and will be provided with two years of fellowship as part of their five-year funding package, as well as with a $1000 research account.

Current graduate students interested in participating in this cluster should contact Professor Brodwyn Fischer at b-fischer@northwestern.edu.