Study the history, politics, culture, and communities of the Caribbean and Latina/os in the United States. Develop critical thinking skills and the ability to speak and write clearly and analytically. Employ different research methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches in the humanities and/or social sciences. Develop multi- and inter-cultural competence and sensitivity to issues particular to Latino and/or Caribbean experience(s).
First Semester Planning
We recommend that students register for approximately 15 credits each semester and no more than 16 credits in their first semester. Your schedule should be well-balanced and include coursework from a variety of subjects. A diverse schedule will help you begin your studies in potential majors and minors; explore a breadth of new knowledge across departments at Rutgers to meet SAS Core Curriculum learning goals; and survey broader academic interests through elective courses as you work to attain the required 120 degree credits for graduation.
Your schedule will look something like this:
College Writing or English course per placement results (3 credits) Major Exploration course (3-4 credits) Major or Minor Exploration course (3-4 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Byrne or First-Year Interest Group Seminar (FIGS) (1 credit) Total Credits: 15-16 |
Major Exploration Course(s) Recommended for Incoming First-Year Students
Introductory courses recommended by faculty. Include at least one of these in your schedule:
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Intro to Latino Studies |
01:595:101 |
3 |
Latino and Hispanic Caribbean Studies (595) |
Intro to Caribbean Studies |
01:595:100 |
3 | Latino and Hispanic Caribbean Studies (595) |
Course recommendations beyond this department
Your first year of college is an opportunity for you to explore fields of interest to enhance your understanding of yourself, the world around you, and your main academic and career goals. Think of your schedule as including courses you must take (English, courses to explore potential majors, etc.) and courses you can take (everything else!) All courses are part of your degree - if necessary, review the components of the SAS degree on this page.
Through these degree components, you will curate your own unique educational experience - but we understand that this level of flexibility and freedom can feel overwhelming for new students. Like a recommendation based on a book or TV show you enjoyed, the information below can help you identify related courses to consider in your first semester.
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Intro to Sociology | 01:920:101 | 3 | Sociology (920) |
Global Awareness: Intro to International and Global Studies | 01:558:101 | 3 | International Studies (558) |
Introduction to Human Evolution | 01:070:102 | 3 | Anthropology (070) |
Introduction to Gender, Race and Sexuality | 01:988:101 | 3 | Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (988) |
Additional Information Beyond the Classroom
For your first semester, we want you to focus on selecting appropriate courses, begin to understand the expectations and rigor of college, and identify resources to help you succeed at Rutgers. But, we also know that it is important to provide information for future planning.
In addition to the information below, students interested in exploring possible career options may find this resource from the Office of Career Exploration and Success helpful - you'll find that a degree in this subject prepares you for a wide variety of career options!
What opportunities exist in the department for beyond the classroom learning (internships, research, field work, etc.)?
Service Learning Internships, Alternative Spring Break in the Dominican Republic, Research Seminars, Independent Studies
Is there a departmental Honors track or program?
Yes
Please provide information on the careers obtained by recent graduates:
Administrative Assistant, Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers University
AmeriCorp
Attorney
AP Social Sciences Instructor, Union School Haiti
College Professor
Community Health Worker
Educator, K-12 The School District of Philadelphia
Journalist, Univision
Payroll Configuration Analyst, The Madison Square Garden Company
Program Coordinator, Upward Bound Project at Montclair State University
Program Coordinator, Youth Advocate Programs, Inc.
Recruiter, Pharmaceutical Company
Research Associate, New Jersey Senate Majority Office