Overview

The Latin American Studies programme at Stanford University offers a sophisticated interdisciplinary framework for understanding the complex social and political landscapes of the region. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that spans history, environment, and society to build a deep expertise in this vital global area.

This postgraduate course is specifically designed to enhance research capabilities while providing practical training in modern analytical tools. Participants gain proficiency in data visualisation, big data analysis, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to ensure they remain competitive in the modern workforce. The academic structure allows for significant flexibility, enabling individuals to tailor their module choices to align with specific professional goals or academic interests.

Why Latin American Studies at Stanford University?

The institution provides a unique academic environment where students can pursue dual professional degrees concurrently with their master's studies. This includes potential collaborations with the Graduate School of Business, the School of Law, or the School of Medicine for those accepted into both programmes. Such flexibility allows for a highly specialised educational path that combines regional expertise with professional qualifications.

As a National Resource Centre, the university offers extensive facilities and resources, including the Bolivar House and dedicated library collections. The programme is distinguished by its focus on both traditional humanities and modern technical systems. Students are encouraged to participate in working groups and attend conferences that highlight the latest research in the field, supported by a network of academic affiliates and global partners.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 21180 per semester
National fee: USD 21180 per semester
Local fee: USD 13240 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Latin American Studies
History
Politics
Culture
Society
Environment and Ecology
Advanced Language Training
Visualization
Big Data Analysis
GIS

Careers with Latin American Studies

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped to enter a variety of professional sectors or continue their education at the doctoral level. The diverse skill set acquired during the course allows alumni to pursue roles in higher education, where they contribute to academic research and teaching. Many others find success in the private sector, applying their regional knowledge to international business operations.

The degree also prepares individuals for impactful roles within government agencies and non-governmental organisations. These positions often focus on policy development, international relations, and social advocacy. By combining linguistic fluency with technical data skills, graduates are prepared to address complex challenges in both the public and private spheres across the globe.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Latin American Development: Economy and Society, 1800-2014

Latin American Politics

Indigenous Peoples and Environmental Problems

Contemporary Issues in Latin American Studies

Aztec Language and Culture

The Formation of Political State in the Peruvian Andes

Maya Mythology and the Popol Vuh

Incas and their Ancestors: Peruvian Archaeology

Peoples and Cultures of Ancient Mesoamerica

Race and Culture in Mexico and Central America

Curricular Public Policies for the Recognition of Afro-Brazilians and Indigenous Population

International Documentary

Global Human Geography: Europe and Americas

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-03 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

45 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Ethnic Studies American and Australasian studies View 48 other Masters in Ethnic Studies in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants must hold, or expect to hold before enrollment at Stanford, a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association.
Applicants from institutions outside the U.S. must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing. See minimum level of study required of International applicants.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores are required of all applicants whose first language is not English.
International students enrolled must be able to read English with ease, understand rapid idiomatic English as used in lectures and group discussions.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year
Out-of-State

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

42360 USD / year

≈ 42360 USD / year

Additional Details

per quarter

Living costs

Stanford

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

Interested in financing your studies? Find a student loan that works for you.

MPOWER Financing No cosigner. No collateral. No hidden fees.

Check your Eligibility

Get the funding you need to study in the U.S. or Canada - with a process that's fast, simple, and built for international students.

Flexible loans from US$2,001 to US$100,000
Fixed interest rates -- no inflation surprises
No upfront fees or prepayment penalties
Accepted at 500+ universities across the U.S. & Canada
100% online application -- instant conditional offer
Free visa & career support through our Path2Success program

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Latin American Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About