Latin American Studies at the University of Toronto is a program for students in the social sciences, humanities, and sciences who seek a deeper understanding of the Latin American regions, their histories, cultures, and societies.
Please visit the Latin American Studies Academic Calendar for the latest information on:
- Major and Minor program requirements
- LAS course descriptions
- Courses offered by other academic units pre-approved for credit in any LAS program
For courses currently offered, please visit the full Arts & Science Fall & Winter Session Timetable.
Message from professor Luis van Isschot, Associate Chair of Latin American Studies
Dear All,
I hope that everyone is doing well and having a good start semester so far!
My name is Luis van Isschot and I am the new Associate Chair for Latin American Studies (LAS). Of course, some of us know one another already. If we have not yet met in person, I look forward to the opportunity. I am based in the Department of History, where I research and teach on political violence, human rights, and social movements. Much of my work is focused on Colombia in the twentieth century.
Students are the heart of Latin American Studies, and together with all my colleagues I hope to help create a positive atmosphere for you. If you are unfamiliar with our programs, please do not hesitate to be in touch with me directly via email to las.program@utoronto.ca . I am based out of the offices of LAS on the fifth floor of the Jackman Humanities Building (170 St. George St.) Come by when you are in the area, or email to arrange a meeting. I plan on keeping regular hours on Wednesdays, from 11:00 Amm to 1:00 PM, and would be happy to see you.
I want to thank Víctor Rivas, Assistant Professor of Latin American Literary and Cultural Studies, who for the past three years has led this program with tremendous positive energy, under the most extraordinary of circumstances. I also want to thank Ana Pérez-Leroux, Professor of Spanish and Linguistics and Chair of the Department of Spanish and Portuguese, for her very warm welcome and support. Finally, I want to acknowledge Berenice Villagómez, who as we all know has provided so much in terms of leadership for LAS these past years.
One of the best parts of being affiliated with LAS has been the chance to participate in scholarly events, from lectures to colloquia, and student conferences. If you have ideas or projects that you would like to share with the broader community, please get in touch. Just to give you an example, our podcast El CafeciTO, was born from the initiative of our students and now is going five years strong!
In the coming days, there a number of exciting events planned. Be sure to visit our website regularly to stay informed, read our montlhy newsletter Acento or follow us on social media under the handle @uoftspanport to keep informed of the many opportunities available to you. Stay tuned for more announcements, the year is just getting started!
It is a great privilege to serve as Associate Chair for Latin American Studies. I have so much to learn, and am looking forward to working with you to set a positive agenda for the coming years.
Thank you, and sincerely.
Luis van Isschot
