The Latin American and Latino Studies Institute (LALSI) is home to an interdisciplinary program that brings together faculty members from nine different departments. Originally founded as the Puerto Rican Studies Institute, the program expanded in the early 1990s and changed its name. Today, LALSI faculty work on all major areas of Latin America, including the Caribbean, and on U.S. Latino issues. Fordham has, from its inception, educated students from Latin America and today’s students also include members of Spanish-speaking immigrant communities in New York City. Fordham led the way as one of the first institutions in New York City to recognize the importance of Latino Studies. One of the great strengths of the LALS program is its embrace of a comparative approach bringing together scholars on U.S. Latinos, Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula.
LALSI provides an intellectual home for both students and faculty interested in Latin America and U.S. Latinos. LALSI also acts as a clearinghouse for information, organizes conferences, hosts distinguished scholars, sponsors film series and mentors students.
LALSI offers an undergraduate major and minor. LALSI also offers a graduate certificate, a master’s degree and an Early Admission master’s degree for Fordham undergraduates.
