Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Latin American Studies Shorelight Group - University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, USA

The Spanish and Latin American Studies program provides students with communication skills in both written and spoken Spanish and gives them an understanding of and appreciation for the peoples, literatures, and cultures of Spain and Latin America. Stronger ties with the Spanish-speaking world and the growing number of Spanish-speakers in the United States have significantly increased the need for teachers and speakers of Spanish.

Although some students choose to study Spanish primarily for personal growth and intellectual enrichment, graduates in Spanish and Latin American Studies have found satisfying careers in teaching, international business, translating and interpreting, personnel work, public relations, business management, social work, government service, and other fields. The Spanish and Latin American Studies major is also excellent preparation for graduate study. Proficiency in a foreign language and understanding of other cultures are essential for peace and prosperity in an interdependent world.

Learning a new language is a life-long endeavor, only part of which can be accomplished in the classroom. All students of Spanish and Latin American Studies are strongly encouraged to pursue the opportunities faculty provide for travel and study in Spain, Mexico, Guatemala, and South America. Additionally, ways exist to interact with the Hispanic community of Green Bay. A language laboratory with interactive audio equipment, computers, and international television reception helps language learning and cultural awareness. Spanish conversation groups meet periodically to offer the opportunity to practice the language. Students are encouraged to become members of the student-led Spanish Club.

Many students majoring in Spanish and Latin American Studies will also choose a complimentary minor. Students may choose Humanities; students interested in the arts or the performing arts may choose Design Arts or Arts Management. Depending on their preferences and goals, students may find other minors appropriate, such as Human Development or Democracy and Justice Studies. Students desiring teacher preparation in Spanish must combine their studies in Spanish with the secondary Education minor.

Students who begin Spanish and Latin American Studies study at UW-Green Bay should enroll in SPANISH 101. Students with previous Spanish should select a course appropriate to their level by counting a year of high school work as equivalent to a semester of college work, or consult the Spanish and Latin American Studies adviser. If more than two semesters have elapsed between your high school Spanish classes and when you will be enrolling in college Spanish courses, you are required to take the UW placement test for appropriate placement.

Students seeking teacher certification must be admitted to the Education Program and should contact the Education Office for information and further requirements.