While Portuguese has been taught in the Department since 1945, the IU Portuguese program was established in the 1960s, making it one of the oldest in the nation. We are one of few programs in the country to offer the B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. in Portuguese. We also offer a Ph.D. minor.

Our Portuguese program is distinguished by its transatlantic, interdisciplinary focus, with classes concerning the literature and culture of Portuguese-speaking countries, including Brazil, Portugal, Angola, Mozambique, East Timor, and Guinea-Bissau. We offer courses in Luso-Brazilian culture (such as cinema and other arts) and literature (theater, poetry, and prose). We also encourage students to take classes outside the department, in areas of relevance to Luso-African-Brazilian culture, society, art, and history.