Overview
Carolyn Vacca, Chair of the Division of Humanities
The B.A. in Spanish prepares students to engage confidently in today’s global society. Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world and is widely used both internationally and in communities throughout the United States. Proficiency in Spanish opens doors to meaningful cultural, professional, and civic engagement.
Studying Spanish fosters strong communication skills while developing critical thinking, analytical abilities, and cross-cultural awareness. These competencies are essential across a wide range of fields, including the natural and social sciences, humanities, business, education, nursing, and the creative arts.
The program offers flexibility, allowing students to connect their linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding to their academic interests and career goals. As a result, graduates are well prepared to apply their skills in diverse professional contexts and to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
Mission
To educate students in Spanish language and cultures through a liberal arts approach that integrates language study, critical inquiry, and community engagement, developing their proficiency, intercultural competence, and ethical awareness for effective communication in academic, professional, and community settings.
Vision
To be a transformative program known for preparing globally engaged graduates who communicate across cultures with clarity and purpose, build meaningful connections with Spanish-speaking communities in the United States and around the world, and apply their linguistic and cultural expertise with integrity, empathy, and professional excellence in diverse fields.
Degree Options
- B.A. in Spanish
- B.S. in Inclusive Adolescence Education/Spanish (dual major)
- B.S. in Inclusive Adolescence Education with a Concentration in Spanish
- B.S. in Inclusive Childhood Education/Spanish (dual major)
- B.S. in Inclusive Childhood Education with a Concentration in Spanish
Additional Programs
- Minor in Spanish
- Minor or Certificate in Spanish/Latino Culture for the Health Professions
- Minor in Languages and Cultures (single-language track, combining courses taught in Spanish with courses taught in English)
Teaching Certification
The Spanish major provides the essential content knowledge and pedagogical foundation for future language educators. Students develop advanced proficiency in Spanish and a deep understanding of diverse Spanish-speaking cultures, along with strong communication skills and experience working with a wide range of textual and cultural materials. These competencies prepare graduates to meet the expectations of certification programs and to excel in language classrooms.
4+1 Teacher Certification Program
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. School of Education offers a 4+1 program designed to provide an accelerated pathway to New York State Teacher Certification for highly qualified students majoring in the liberal arts and sciences. This competitive program allows students to complete their baccalaureate degree in the liberal arts and sciences and their master’s degree in inclusive education with dual teacher certification in five years.