SPANISH

Program Description

The courses offered by the Department of Foreign Languages are designed to develop in the student the ability to speak, write, read and understand a foreign language thus enhancing employment opportunities in a variety of occupations and contributing to the student’s broad humanistic education by enriching appreciation and understanding of the cultures of other nations.

Knowledge of Spanish, especially in conjunction with another major, provides many opportunities for interesting and rewarding careers in the global economy. There are also opportunities in teaching as the demand for Spanish language instruction increases. An international focus is essential for the 21st century. Spanish is the language spoken in Spain, Mexico, and all the countries of South and Central America, except Brazil. It is also the first language of a large number of residents of the United States. 

The objectives of the major program in Spanish are to increase the student’s fluency in Spanish and to provide a broad understanding of Spanish and Spanish American cultures. This preparation provides the necessary background for careers in foreign language teaching, bilingual education, and the teaching of English as a second language, and for graduate study in such fields as library science and comparative literature. In conjunction with another area of specialization the competence gained in the Spanish major program will prepare the student for a career in fields such as government, health services, law enforcement, international business and commerce, accounting, law and communications.

Curriculum
A student may begin the study of Spanish at King’s at the beginning level if necessary, but Spanish 145: Spanish Conversation & Composition I is the first course that counts for the major. If taken, Spanish 141-144 (Beginning and Intermediate Spanish) count as electives.  Students are assisted in selecting the appropriate level at which to begin by a faculty member from the Language Department.

Spanish majors will plan their program in consultation with their major advisor in the Department of Foreign Languages and all decisions will be subject to the Chairperson’s approval. A minor in Spanish is also available.

To recognize a student’s superior achievement in foreign language study, the Department sponsors a chapter of Alpha Mu Gamma, a national collegiate foreign language honor society.

Study Abroad Option
Spanish majors are encouraged, although not required, to study for a summer, semester, or entire academic year in a country where Spanish is spoken. This is an excellent way to increase fluency in Spanish and acquire a firsthand knowledge of the culture. Students may choose from the numerous accredited programs sponsored by American colleges and universities in Spanish speaking countries, subject to prior approval by appropriate College officials. Students should consult with the Director of the Study Abroad Program and their major advisor in the Foreign Language Department for assistance in selecting a program suitable for their special interests and needs.

Degree Offered:  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Compatible Majors and Minors
The Spanish major can be combined with any other major. Many of the combinations are possible within the 120 credit graduation requirement. Others may require additional credits which can be acquired through summer study or a course overload during the regular semester. The following are examples of second majors which can be completed by Spanish majors. Minors, which require fewer courses, are also available in many of these areas:

• Accounting
• Biology
• Business Administration
• Computers and Information Systems
• Criminal Justice
• Elementary Education
• English
• French
• Health Care Administration
• History
• Human Resources Management
• International Business
• Marketing
• Mass Communications
• Political Science
• Psychology
• Theatre

Special Features

• Second major option
• Small classes conducted entirely in Spanish