Program Description
The Spanish major—consisting of four options: I. Literature, II. Language and Culture, III. Hispanic Linguistics and IV. Translation and Interpretation—is designed for students who wish to prepare for a career in secondary, college or university teaching, or who intend to pursue other careers where a strong background in Spanish is essential. Students should seek advisement from Spanish faculty advisors concerning the option best suited to their goals.
Note that the Spanish major requires a capstone paper to be written in a 400-level course of the student’s choice.
Students with some knowledge of Spanish who want to take lower division courses should take the Spanish placement exam before registration. The exam is available on a drop-in basis at certain hours or by appointment in the Barbara Ann Ward Language Center (BAWLC), JR 316.
Students with advanced placement cannot receive credit for courses below the level at which they are placed. However, 200-level classes may be waived or replaced by appropriate classes. Please consult an advisor.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Prepare students for careers in teaching (secondary, community college, university), among others in legal, medical, administrative and journalistic fields, translation and interpretation, etc., which require advanced-level (ACTFL Guidelines) abilities in both oral and written skills.
- Provide students with techniques, strategies, methodologies and skills to carry out independent research that supports career choices.
- Establish a solid foundation for lifelong learning, service and participation in the Hispanic, Latino and global communities.
- Carry out research and apply critical theories in analysis of Hispanic linguistics, literatures, civilizations and cultures.
- Communicate at the advanced level using a variety of rhetorical modes in both oral and written discourse.
- Achieve subject matter competency (as stated in the Standards of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing) to enter a credential or a graduate program in Spanish at any U.S. university.