(18 credits)
Between 2000 and 2012, the Latino and Latina population of Connecticut increased from 320,000 residents to 510,645. Three cities have the largest concentrations of Latinos and Latinas in the state: Hartford, Bridgeport and New Haven. Together these cities account for 38 percent of the state’s Latino and Latina residents. It is projected that Latinos will comprise 29% of the total population of the United States by 2050, making them the largest minority group in the country (Pew Research Center, 2008).
Multiculturalism, diversity and a commitment to social justice are included among the core values of the University of Saint Joseph. In turn, USJ is committed to preparing professionals to meet the increasing demand for cultural and linguistically competent services by teaching our students about Latinos across the diaspora including immigration, acculturation and cultural preservation. Moreover, students will also develop projects that meet the needs of Latino communities.
The Latino Community Practice minor increases Latino cultural knowledge and Spanish language proficiency. It is open to students in every major in both the Women’s College and Program for Adult Learners.