Spanish

Spanish provides students with linguistic, communication, cultural and critical thinking skills in Spanish so they can pursue graduate school or careers which require them to apply these cross cultural competencies in an increasingly globalized world. Students choose from among a wide variety of courses that develop their language skills and engage them in content areas like linguistics, literature and cultures of the Spanish speaking world. Three features that define the program are the study of the language through content and in the context of other languages; community-based language learning; and the use of technology in the classroom.
Spanish is presented in contact with other languages and cultures. We encourage students to study Portuguese, Catalan, Basque and Quechua. Literatures and cultures are approached from a trans-Atlantic perspective; and Spanish is recognized and taught as a language of the United States.

Students may choose from one of two concentrations.

• Spanish basic language sequence through SPAN 141 or 142 for completion of non-primary language requirements. These courses do not count towards the major.
• SPAN 228 - Spanish Composition
• Students choose among the other 200-level Spanish courses, allowing them to strengthen their particular skills as necessary and follow their personal interests.

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Spanish can be a springboard to professional and personal success in a wide range of careers. Recent alumni have gone on to work in business, education, law, social services and more. Our students develop the skills that employers in all sectors look for: strong communication capabilities, cultural competence, information literacy, teamwork skills, critical thinking and global literacy. Plus they can do all that in Spanish. The information on language and careers at this website can give you more ideas.

For further information for careers in Spanish, go to:
https://www.leadwithlanguages.org/

• Participating in undergraduate research
• Applying for a study abroad experience
• Utilizing resources of The Career Center
• Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
  • Mi Pueblo Spanish Conversation Groups:  provides informal opportunities to practice conversational Spanish on campus.  By utilizing online resources, student facilitators arrange and maintain weekly 1-hour meetings with other students to talk about various topics in Spanish.  Through cultural events and volunteer activities, our goal is to improve participants’ speaking abilities as well as foster genuine social bonds between members of conversation groups and the Hispanic community.

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Spanish.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Spanish.  These organizations include American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, American Translators Association, and Modern Language Association. In addition, be sure to visit the Spanish Undergraduate website to learn more about this major!