Studying Spanish in the USA

by Robyn Tellefsen

Spanish has become the second language of the United States. In fact, more than 20 million U.S. residents speak Spanish in their everyday lives, making this the fifth largest Spanish-speaking country in the world.

Why Spanish?
A Spanish major provides a working proficiency in practical communication skills in Spanish as well as familiarity with the cultures in which it is spoken. It also offers an in-depth encounter with the rich and diverse realm of Spanish and Spanish American literature and linguistics. This prepares you for a wide variety of careers in communications, education, foreign service, the helping professions, politics, and travel and tourism.

Spanish courses
During the first two years of a bachelor's degree program, Spanish majors typically concentrate on taking general education courses and beginning or intermediate Spanish courses. After that, required courses may include advanced Spanish language, literature, peninsular (Spain) culture, and Spanish American culture. Major electives include courses in conversation, Spanish for business and other professions, study abroad, and other culture, film, literature, and special topics courses. Spanish majors are strongly encouraged and often required to enroll in a study abroad program.

Study abroad
Study abroad, a hallmark of a Spanish major, is often credited for students' expanded self-confidence, maturity, and worldview. On the academic side, study abroad enhances interest in study, influences subsequent education experiences, and reinforces commitment to foreign language study. Study abroad catalyzes students' intercultural and career development as well.

Spanish certification
With Spanish language education, you may be qualified to take a Spanish Embassy exam to receive a European Community endorsed certificate of language proficiency (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera). This certificate is helpful in a career that requires knowledge of Spanish because it provides an objective measure of language proficiency.

Spanish career opportunities
Some Spanish majors find employment in the armed forces, government agencies, law enforcement, the Peace Corps, and social services in the U.S. and abroad. There are also professional career opportunities for Spanish majors in private business, teaching in the U.S. and abroad, and paralegal and paramedical professions.

To expand your career opportunities, you might consider adding a major or a minor in business, criminal justice, economics, education, journalism, political science, public and environmental affairs, or sociology.

Catch up with the rest of the world--start learning Spanish today!