Exploring Languages, Cultures, and Histories Across the Hispanic WorldSpanish and Latin American Studies Curriculum
Embracing Diversity through Language and Culture
The Spanish and Latin American Studies curriculum offers students an immersive exploration of the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and literatures that make up the Spanish-speaking world. With over 500 million native speakers across four continents, Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages globally, making it an essential asset for personal growth and professional development in our increasingly interconnected world.
Our program combines rigorous language instruction with interdisciplinary approaches to examine Latin America, Spain, and the growing Hispanic communities in the United States. From pre-Columbian civilizations to contemporary social movements, students develop critical perspectives on the complex cultural dynamics of the Hispanic world while achieving linguistic proficiency.
Program Objectives
The Spanish and Latin American Studies curriculum is designed to help students achieve several key learning outcomes:
Linguistic Proficiency
Develop advanced Spanish language skills including reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension appropriate for academic and professional contexts.
Cultural Literacy
Gain deep understanding of the historical, social, political, and artistic developments that shape Spanish-speaking societies and their global influence.
Critical Analysis
Cultivate the ability to analyze primary sources, literary texts, and cultural artifacts from diverse perspectives using appropriate disciplinary methods.
Intercultural Competence
Develop sensitivity and adaptability when engaging with cultural differences, preparing for effective interaction in multilingual environments.
Curriculum Structure
The Spanish and Latin American Studies major comprises 42-48 credit hours distributed across four essential areas: language acquisition, literature, civilization/culture, and elective concentrations.
Foundation Courses (12-16 credits)
These introductory courses establish the linguistic baseline requisite for more advanced study in Spanish and Latin American contexts:
- SPAN 101 Elementary Spanish I - Beginning language skills with focus on basic communication
- SPAN 102 Elementary Spanish II - Continuation of fundamental language development
- SPAN 201 Intermediate Spanish I - Reinforcement of grammar and expansion of vocabulary
- SPAN 202 Intermediate Spanish II - Introduction to literary and cultural texts
Core Requirements
| Course | Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SPAN 301 Advanced Grammar and Composition | Rigorous review of Spanish grammar with emphasis on written expression and academic writing across diverse genres. | 3 |
| SPAN 302 Advanced Conversation and Phonetics | Development of oral proficiency through discussion of contemporary issues and phonetic training. | 3 |
| SPAN 330 Survey of Spanish Literature | Chronological examination of major literary works from medieval to contemporary Spain. | 3 |
| SPAN 335 Survey of Latin American Literature | Overview of significant literary productions from pre-Columbian times to the present across Latin America. | 3 |
| SPAN 340 Spanish Civilization | Study of the historical, political, artistic, and social development of Spain from ancient times to the present. | 3 |
| SPAN 345 Latin American Civilization | Examines the complex cultural heritage of Latin America including indigenous, European, and African influences. | 3 |
Elective Concentrations (9-12 credits)
Students select elective courses based on their areas of interest, with three tracks available:
Literature Track
- SPAN 410: Don Quixote and the Golden Age
- SPAN 415: Contemporary Spanish Novel
- SPAN 420: The Boom and After: Latin American Narrative
- SPAN 425: Latino/a Literature in the U.S.
- SPAN 430: Poetry and Poetics in the Hispanic World
Cultural Studies Track
- SPAN 440: Contemporary Spanish Cinema
- SPAN 445: Latin American Film and Society
- SPAN 450: Gender and Sexuality in Hispanic Cultures
- SPAN 455: Afro-Hispanic Cultures and Literature
- SPAN 460: Indigenous Peoples of Latin America
Historical/Political Track
- SPAN 470: The Mexican Revolution in Literature and Film
- SPAN 475: Dictatorship and Democracy in the Southern Cone
- SPAN 480: The Spanish Civil War: Memory and Representation
- SPAN 485: Latino Migration and Transnationalism
- SPAN 490: Contemporary Social Movements in Latin America
Capstone Experience
During their final year, all Spanish and Latin American Studies majors complete a capstone project that demonstrates their cumulative learning and critical thinking skills:
- SPAN 499 Senior Capstone - An intensive research project resulting in a substantial written thesis or creative project with accompanying theoretical analysis, presented publicly to department faculty and students.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Beyond the regular curriculum, students are strongly encouraged to complement their academic work with immersive experiences:
Study Abroad Programs
The department offers semester and year-long programs in various locations including Granada, Seville, Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Oaxaca. These programs allow students to live with host families, take courses at local universities, and engage in community-based learning. Summer immersion options and faculty-led research tours are also available.
- Service Learning: Community engagement projects with local Hispanic organizations
- Internships: Professional placements with international companies, NGOs, or government agencies
- Undergraduate Research: Collaborative research projects with faculty mentors
- Language Exchange Programs: Conversation partnerships with native Spanish speakers
Minor Requirements
The Spanish and Latin American Studies minor consists of 18 credit hours, designed to provide students with foundational proficiency and cultural literacy:
- SPAN 201 and 202 (or demonstration of equivalent proficiency)
- SPAN 301 or 302
- Select three additional courses at the 300 level or above, with at least one literature course and one civilization course
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our Spanish and Latin American Studies program possess valuable skills applicable to diverse career paths:
International Business
Graduates work in multinational corporations, import/export industries, and international consulting firms that require Spanish language proficiency and cultural understanding.
Government and Diplomacy
Opportunities exist in the Foreign Service, international development agencies, immigration services, and intelligence organizations.
Education
Teaching positions at K-12 and college levels, curriculum development, and educational consulting in bilingual or ESL programs.
Media and Communications
Journalism, translation, interpretation, and content creation for Spanish-language media outlets.
Healthcare
Medical interpretation, public health initiatives with Hispanic communities, and healthcare delivery in Spanish-speaking regions.
Nonprofit Sector
Program coordination, community outreach, and advocacy work with organizations serving Hispanic populations.
Resources and Support
The Spanish and Latin American Studies department provides various resources to enhance student learning:
- Language Laboratory: Interactive audio and video resources for language practice
- Tutoring Center: Peer tutoring available for all levels of Spanish language courses
- Movie Nights: Regular screenings of Hispanic cinema followed by discussion
- Conversation Hours: Weekly informal gatherings to practice Spanish in relaxed settings
- Lectures and Presentations: Talks by visiting scholars, authors, and community leaders
- Spanish Club: Student organization that organizes cultural activities and events
- Honor Society: Sigma Delta Pi chapter recognizing academic excellence in Hispanic studies
Why Choose Our Program?
The Spanish and Latin American Studies curriculum stands apart for several reasons:
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Our program integrates language learning with literature, history, politics, and cultural studies.
- Expert Faculty: Our professors hold advanced degrees from prestigious institutions and bring diverse research interests and regional specializations.
- Small Classes: With an average class size of 15 students, you'll receive personalized attention and meaningful interaction with faculty.
- Cutting-edge Methodology: We employ innovative teaching techniques and technologies to support language acquisition.
- Diverse Course Offerings: From indigenous studies to contemporary popular culture, our curriculum reflects the breadth of Hispanic experiences.
- Community Connection: Strong ties with local Hispanic communities provide opportunities for meaningful engagement.
Begin Your Journey
Whether you're starting from elementary Spanish or bringing advanced proficiency, the Spanish and Latin American Studies curriculum offers a pathway to deepen your understanding of the Hispanic world while developing valuable linguistic and analytical skills. In our increasingly globalized society, this program provides not just academic enrichment but the foundation for a life of cross-cultural engagement and opportunity.
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Spanish And Latin American Studies Curriculum and Reference File Download Link
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