PhD in Latin American and Latino Studies in Santa Cruz United States | University of California, Santa Cruz

The Ph.D. program in Latin American and Latino Studies (LALS) at UC Santa Cruz provides a cross-border, multidisciplinary perspective on examining the populations, traditions, communities, and systems across the Americas.

The LALS Doctoral Program welcomes applications annually during the fall term. Additionally, the department offers a Graduate Designated Emphasis available to all enrolled UCSC graduate students.

Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or equivalent prior to enrollment. While most applicants typically have backgrounds in social sciences, humanities, or interdisciplinary areas like Latin American Studies, Chicano/Latino Studies, American Studies, or Ethnic Studies, this isn't mandatory. Required application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and career objectives (with specific reference to how UCSC's program aligns with these goals), a 10-15 page writing sample, and three recommendation letters. A minimum 3.5 GPA is expected. International students must demonstrate English proficiency as mandated by the Graduate Division.