The Latino/a Studies certificate program is designed to increase students' knowledge of the diverse histories, demographics, and cultures among Latinos/as in the United States. It is a useful program for students in any profession, as it will prepare them for working with people of Spanish-speaking Latin American or Caribbean heritage--an important and growing demographic in the American landscape.

LAS Coordinator Professor
Andrew Schlewitz
103 Lake Ontario Hall
Phone: (616) 331-8158
Email: schlewia@gvsu.edu

Students must be degree seeking students to receive the certificate. The certificate will be awarded at the same time as the degree is awarded. All undergraduate certificates have received Higher Learning Commission approval, and students are eligible for financial aid because they are seeking a degree. 

• Learn more about an important demographic in the United States and in Michigan.
• Explore cultural, historical, and professional issues related to Latinos/as.
• Engage with the West Michigan Latino/a community via the certificate’s coursework.
• Gain important intercultural understanding and competency skills that you can apply to any workplace context.
  
  Students take a total of 15 credit hours, including “Introduction to Latino/a Studies” and “Latinos/as In West Michigan,” the latter of which includes a community engagement component. In addition to these two required courses, students choose electives from disciplines like English, History, Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Spanish, and may elect to do an internship.

Anyone can benefit from the knowledge and skills this certificate offers. A certificate in Latino/a Studies particularly enhances the education of students preparing for careers in:

• Business
• Education
• Law enforcement
• Nursing
• Social services
• Government