The Latin American and Caribbean Area Studies Program (LACAS) offers an interdisciplinary approach to the study of Latin America, the Caribbean and people of Latin American and Caribbean descent in the United States. LACAS majors examine culture and economic and social problems throughout the Americas. By choosing this major, students not only learn more about a range of cultures and societies, but also about global interconnectedness. To be eligible to earn honors in the Latin American and Caribbean Area Studies Program, a student majoring in LACAS must have: A grade-point average of 3.5 or above in LACAS courses by the beginning of the first semester of their fourth year, A 3.0 or above overall GPA by the beginning of the first semester of their fourth year, and Completed an independent study course (LACS 497) that results in a research paper that is judged to be of honors quality (grade of A), or earn honors in the Senior Thesis course (LACS 498). The work is evaluated by a committee designated by the LACAS Director.