Spanish University of Colorado at Boulder

Overview

Program Tracks

Spanish Language and Literatures Track

This track of the Spanish program of the University of Colorado at Boulder emphasizes knowledge and awareness of:

• the fundamental outlines of the history of Spanish literature and of Spanish American literature

• the major creative writers in both Spanish and Spanish American literature

• basic critical methodologies in the study of poetry, drama, narrative fiction and nonfiction

• the cultural and historical contexts in which particular traditions develop

The program focuses on critical thinking and communication skills (written and oral) and their application in today's real-world global setting. The internationally-recognized professors and instructors integrate their research with their teaching in a fruitful manner. 

The degree supports an active secondary teaching certification program, which prepares future Spanish instructors for the growing demand for secondary Spanish teachers. Catalan language courses are also offered to broaden students' linguistic spectrum. Advanced students, particularly honor's program students, are invited to begin their MA work in our program by taking graduate seminars during their senior year.

Spanish and Portuguese Languages and Culture Track

This track focuses on the literature and culture of Spanish-speaking and Lusophone countries, guiding students through readings on the history of Spain, Portugal, Brazil and Latin America. Along with major authors and literary movements of the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking worlds, students read a variety of complex texts across academic disciplines.

The linguistic and cultural mastery of Spanish and Portuguese is key in opening endless possibilities to the European Union (Portugal and Spain), as well as Brazil and the whole of Latin America. Through this bilingual combination, students will gain the tools needed to conduct business in the Western Hemisphere in today's competitive global market.

Spanish for the Professions Track

This interdisciplinary track offers exciting career possibilities, both in government and private industry, at home and abroad. Languages and cultural understanding are essential in business, engineering, commerce, civil service, law, library science, media, science, economics, health and social sciences.

The degree emphasizes knowledge and awareness of the cultural environment in which professions are practiced in the Spanish-speaking world. Students develop an advanced level of language proficiency and trans-cultural competence in addition to taking courses in a professional field of their choice.

Study Abroad

The department strongly recommends that all majors include a period of study in a Spanish or Portuguese-speaking country in the course of their undergraduate education.

Although the 4-year graduation guarantee does not apply to those who study abroad, it is still entirely possible to go abroad for a semester or a year and graduate in 4 years. For International Spanish for the Professions track, formal admission to the major is required before departure. The Department of Spanish and Portuguese sponsors Summer Global Seminars in Argentina, Brazil and Spain.