Spanish Major Professional Concentrations

Spanish Literary and Cultural Studies

This concentration prepares students for a career in teaching, graduate studies, literary publishing, international relations, and social welfare, among others, by providing students with advanced study of the linguistic and cultural heritage of Spanish speaking countries. In addition to developing skills in literary analysis and appreciation, advanced writing and composition, and critical thinking, students develop a more profound cultural competency that is needed in myriad careers that cross borders. Literature classes are taught in the context of cultural histories, while culture and civilization classes expose students to the exciting world of Spanish and Latin American film, dance, music, architecture, art, and popular culture. Students' writing skills are honed in advanced composition classes, as well as in literary surveys. Advanced Spanish linguistics classes serve to develop a deeper appreciation of, and greater proficiency in, the Spanish language. Almost all classes are conducted exclusively in Spanish, providing ample opportunity to practice language skills.

Spanish for the Professions

This concentration prepares students for a career in one of the many professions in which bilingual proficiency and cultural competency is needed, including international business, law, engineering, information systems, medical services, international relations, and criminal justice. Students take courses in general language and culture, in order to acquire advanced proficiency or polish their "Heritage" language skills. In addition, they choose to take the various "Spanish for the Professions" courses we offer, including Business Spanish, Translation, Medical Spanish, and Legal Spanish. This preparation affords the student a practical foundation for professional use of the Spanish language, including advanced writing skills, formal presentation skills in Spanish, technical translation skills, and advanced cultural competency. Almost all classes are conducted exclusively in Spanish, providing ample opportunity to practice language skills.

Translation Studies

This concentration prepares students for a career in translation, in which bilingual competency in both Spanish and English is needed. Students take a range of advanced courses on a variety of topics in order to acquire a diverse set of specialized vocabularies, in addition to specialized courses on the art and skill of translation. In addition to advanced courses in Spanish, students are required to complete credits in advanced English composition and linguistics. The goal is to produce a truly "bi-lingual" professional with cross-cultural competency and specific translation skills. Students interested in adding a third language to their major track, for example, French, German, or Italian, can do so by taking the appropriate advanced courses in those languages in our department.