Spanish
Program Overview
The Department of Foreign Languages offers courses designed to help the student develop skills in speaking, writing, reading, and understanding a foreign language. In doing so, this may enhance the student’s employment opportunities in a variety of ways, in addition to contributing to the student’s broad humanistic education.
Knowledge of Spanish, especially in combination with another field of study, provides countless opportunities for engaging and rewarding careers within the global economy. It may also create a unique opportunity for those studying education, as the demand for bilingual educators and English instruction increases. Spanish is a very global language, spoken as the first language in Spain, Argentina, Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic. Many United States residents also speak Spanish as their native language.
The main objectives of the Spanish major program are to strengthen the student’s understanding and fluency in the language while teaching them about the culture behind it.
Careers
The Spanish major is designed to increase the student’s ability to communicate in Spanish and to provide a broad understanding of Spanish and Spanish-American culture. The language skills and cultural knowledge acquired will enhance employment opportunities in many fields, including:
- Law
- Government
- Travel and tourism
- Teaching
Careers in conjunction with another area of expertise
- Law enforcement
- International business and commerce
- Accounting
- Print and electronic media
- Human resources
- Health care
Recent Graduates’ Job Placements
- International accountant
- Attorney
- Health care administrator
- Spanish tavern manager
- CNN news producer
- Teacher
- Intelligence service officer
- Foreign service officer
- International business executive
- Bank vice-president.
Opportunities for Graduate Studies
Law School, M.A. and Ph.D. in Spanish, Latin-American Studies,Comparative Literature, International Affairs, or Library/Information Science.Graduate School Admissions
- Michigan State University
- University of Miami Law School
- University of Northern Iowa
- Farleigh Dickenson
- Ohio State University
- Marquette University
- University of Pittsburgh
Program Details
Curriculum
A student may begin studying Spanish at the beginning or intermediate level if necessary in courses SPAN 101-104, but SPAN 105 is the first course to be counted for the Spanish major. If the beginning-intermediate courses are taken, they will be counted as electives. Incoming students will be placed into the appropriate course based on their language assessment test and previous experience.
Spanish majors must plan their program with the consultation of their assigned major-advisor in the Department of Foreign Languages. All decisions will be subject to the Chairperson’s approval. There is also a Spanish minor available.
Alpha Mu Gamma is a national collegiate foreign language honor society, sponsored by the Department, to recognize superior achievements of the student.
Study Abroad Option
Although it is not a requirement, Spanish majors are encouraged to study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country for a summer, semester, or academic year in order to more fully immerse themselves in the language and culture. Interested students may choose from numerous accredited programs sponsored by both American and foreign countries, with approval from King’s College officials. Students should consult the Office of Study Abroad and their major-advisor in the Department of Foreign Languages for assistance.
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
