SpanishProgram Description
The Spanish program at the University of Utah offers an enriching experience for students eager to deepen their understanding of Spanish language and cultures of the Hispanic world. Students of this program will study the language, literature, history, and society of Spain and Spanish-speaking countries. The curriculum consists of foundational courses in Spanish grammar and composition, alongside introductory literature courses and a diverse range of elective options. Topics covered in the elective section of the program include literature and film studies, Peninsular, Colonial Latin American, Caribbean, Contemporary Latin American, and U.S. Latina/o studies, as well as Spanish linguistics. This comprehensive range of courses ensures that students will graduate not only with language literacy, but with critical thinking skills they need to be successful in a number of careers.
The University’s Spanish program provides exceptional preparation for graduate study and a wide array of careers where critical reading, writing, and analytical thinking skills are paramount.
Students interested in teaching Spanish should check out the Spanish Teaching major.
The Student Experience
Learning Abroad is a popular opportunity for students in the Spanish program at the University of Utah, and there are many ways for students of Spanish to study or intern abroad. Students can learn abroad through an intensive faculty-led program in Oviedo, Spain, where they’ll have the opportunity to stay in a homestay and be fully immersed in Spanish culture and language. Students can also learn abroad through exchange partnerships with the University of Chile, University of Oviedo (Spain), or University of the Americas Puebla (Mexico.) There are many affiliate Learning Abroad programs throughout the Spanish-speaking world in Argentina, Costa Rica, Peru, Spain, among others, where students can study or intern as well. Learning Abroad is highly encouraged in the Spanish program and is an excellent way to elevate language and cultural understanding.
The Hinckley Institute also provides several internship opportunities (local, national, and global) for students to use their Spanish professionally. Some local examples of Spanish-speaking opportunities include internships with the Peruvian Consulate, Comunidades Unidas nonprofit, and other local translation companies.
On campus, students wishing to focus on a research topic in-depth may complete an undergraduate research project or honors thesis, for students in the Honors College. To build community with other Spanish language learners, students can join the U’s Spanish Club.
Career Opportunities
Upon graduation, you will be prepared for careers in a number of fields. Work for the government domestically as a translator, linguist, diplomat, or immigration or customs specialist, or return to a country in which you studied abroad to pursue one or more of these jobs internationally. Students may also enter the world of international business as a supply chain manager, logistics specialist, or HR representative. Jobs in travel and tourism—as an airline employee, travel guide, or translator—are possible, as are careers in education or ESL (English as a Second Language) instruction. With additional schooling at the graduate level, you can find work as a professor, lawyer, or administrator.
More Info
- Spanish Program
- Department of World Languages & Cultures
- College of Humanities
- Department Advising
- U Career Success
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