SPAN 495: Introduction to Latina/o Studies
SPAN 495-DL1: Introduction to Latina/o/x Studies
(Fall 2026)
Online
Section Information for Fall 2026
This course examines Latinx histories, identities, and cultures in the United States from an interdisciplinary perspective. Through the study of relevant cultural artifacts and practices (films, literary works, personal essays, media productions, folklore and the arts) students engage in discussions centered around central issues affecting Hispanic and Latinx communities in the 21st century, including culture preservation, intercultural awareness, equality, accessibility, and empowerment. The course provides an in-depth exploration of the field of Latinx/a/o Studies, delving into critical questions like the nuances of the labels “Hispanic,” “Latina,” “Latino” and “Latinx;” the distinctions and overlaps between Latinx Studies, Latin American Studies, and Ethnic Studies; and the importance of a cultural studies approach to the study of Hispanic and Latinx community traditions across different regions of the United States. Special attention will be given to a tradition of artifacts and cultural practices rooted in the Spanish language, although materials include bilingualism as a significant group identity marker for Latinxs.
SPAN 495 is taught in Spanish and all written and oral assignments are in Spanish. It is primarily designed for FRLN majors and minors with a Spanish concentration, serving as a culminating experience. Additionally, students from diverse academic backgrounds in English, ethnic studies, global affairs, women’s studies, government and international politics, and linguistics are welcome as long as they meet language proficiency requirements and possess a basic understanding of cultural analysis. Course assignments encourage students to draw upon their prior coursework in the Spanish program to analyze complex issues related to multicultural expression, identity, migration, and social equality, examining these themes in local, national, and global contexts.
This is an online asynchronous section.
Course Information from the University Catalog
Credits: 3
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.