As one of the most widely-spoken languages in the world, learning Spanish is a valuable endeavor. According to the U.S. Census, “more than half of the growth in the total population of the United States between 2000 and 2010 was due to the increase in the Hispanic population.” Thus, knowledge of Spanish is relevant and beneficial to students, and can reap a number of rewards, both professionally and personally.
Since mastery of the Spanish language includes the cultural contexts that produced it and which it continues to influence, students are encouraged to take courses in other disciplines related to the Hispanic culture. An international experience of academic and cultural studies is highly recommended. A variety of programs in Spain, Latin America, and South America provides students with the unique opportunity to become immersed in language, culture, and academics, and courses taken abroad may satisfy major requirements only if approved in advance by the language faculty.
A major in Spanish requires a minimum of 30 credits, 24 of which must be at the 300-level or above. Required courses for the major include: SPAN 310, 325, 355, and 356 (or equivalent). Students are encouraged to take at least one course in each of the three major genres (prose, poetry, drama), as well as courses from Peninsular and Latin American focus, both historical and contemporary periods.
The Paper-in-the-Major requirement is met in courses at the 400-level, which characteristically require significant formal writing assignments, as well as a capstone project that demonstrates the student's command of the material and methods, as well as his/ her ability to communicate these skillfully in writing. Also highly recommended is the study of another language.
A minor in Spanish requires a minimum of 16 credits from any level. Interested students should consult with language faculty. All courses require a Language Lab/Supporting Materials Fee.
