Undergraduate

Spanish

The Spanish major is designed to contribute to your cultural and intellectual formation. You may prepare for teaching on the elementary or secondary level or for careers in social services, medical fields, law, criminology, as interpreters, translators, or representatives in business or government.

Spanish Program

Program Tracks Available

Major, Minor

Admission Deadline

Early Decision: November 15

Early Action: November 15

Early Action II: December 15

Regular Decision: February 15

Apply Now

Degrees Offered

B.A.

School

D'Amour College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Department

Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures

Program Overview
Learning goals:
1. To develop good oral/aural communication skills in the target language
2. To write effectively in the target language
3. To think critically about literary and cultural texts using discipline-appropriate methods of analysis
4. To better understand the cultures of our target languages
The Spanish major is an integral part of traditional education in the liberal arts. Spanish is designed to contribute to the cultural and intellectual formation of students, as well as to prepare them for teaching on the elementary or secondary level, and for work in social services, medical fields, law, criminology, and as interpreters, translators, or representatives in business or government, or for continued work on the graduate level.

Spanish majors are taught by exemplary faculty who will encourage you to achieve proficiency and fluency in the spoken and written language; become knowledgeable about Hispanic cultures, and to read with critical appreciation and enjoyment representative works of the principal authors of Spain and Latin America.

Faculty mentors will guide you select courses that will inspire you to explore the language, literature, and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Spanish majors are strongly advised to spend a semester or an academic year in a Spanish speaking country.

Interdisciplinary Major in Latin American and Latino Studies:

The major in Latin American and Latino Studies is designed to respond to the increasing interest in the societies of the region and to the need to understand the complexity of their history, political and economic systems, social structures, and literary and artistic expression. The history of the Latin American nations and the development of their distinctive identities, the struggle for independence, and the establishment of modern democracies offer a challenging range of areas to explore. The presence of Latin America within the United States in the Latino communities gives another dimension to the study.

Learn to enhance your ability to function effectively in an increasingly important commercial language locally, throughout the United States, and abroad. While developing geographic literacy and cultural understanding of the Spanish-speaking world, you will develop skills to conduct successful business in Spanish. The Spanish major also encourages a stronger understanding and appreciation of Spanish art, and culture from Cervantes' Don Quixote to Cien años de Soledad by Gabriel García Márquez. You will broaden your perspective through an immersion experience in Europe, Latin America, or in an area with Latino populations within the United States. Through these travels, you will learn more about significant issues facing Spanish-speaking countries and populations.

Language Placement Information

Program Contact

Maryanne L. Leone, Ph.D

Associate Professor of Spanish, Department Chair, Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures

508-767-7126 maleone@assumption.edu Founders Hall - Room 220

An Ideal Place To Learn

100%

All classes taught by professors, none by teaching assistants

Students from 29 states and 21 countries

11:1

Student/Faculty ratio

Jump To

Program Curriculum

The Major in Spanish is an integral part of traditional education in the liberal arts. The Spanish Major is designed to contribute to the cultural and intellectual formation of students, as well as to prepare them for teaching on the elementary or secondary level, and for work in social services, medical fields, law, criminology, and as interpreters, translators, or representatives in business or government, or for continued work on the graduate level. Spanish majors are expected to achieve proficiency and fluency in the spoken and written language, to become knowledgeable about Hispanic cultures, and to read with critical appreciation and enjoyment representative works of the principal authors of Spain and Latin America. The selection of courses in this major will be made in consultation with the advisor with a view to a complete formation in the language, literature, and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Spanish majors are strongly advised to spend a semester or an academic year in a Spanish-speaking country.

Required Courses (10)

A total of 10 major-level courses (those numbered 202 or higher) is required for a major. Students are expected to include language skills, literature, and culture study in their program. The following are the minimum around which an individual program of study should be developed. These must include at least

A minimum of three courses numbered 210–299 and three courses at the 300-level.

Students who are considering a major in Spanish are advised to fulfill the Introduction to Literature requirement by taking SPA 204.

The Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures accepts for credit from an approved study abroad program three courses (9 credits) per semester towards a major.

All courses for the major must be in Spanish.

Course Descriptions
- Academic Catalog & Advising Guide
- Major in Spanish Course Descriptions
Students minoring in Spanish must take a total of six one-semester courses (18 credits) at level SPA 201 or higher. At least one course must be taken at level SPA 210 or higher. All courses for the minor must be taught in Spanish.

Note on Study Abroad Credit

The Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures accepts for credit from an approved study abroad program two courses (6 credits) per semester towards a minor. The same policies regarding the language in which the course is taught apply for courses abroad. Students must have courses approved by the chair of Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures. Any exceptions to this policy will be reviewed and decided by the chair, in consultation with departmental faculty as the chair deems appropriate.

Course Descriptions
- Academic Catalog & Advising Guide
- Minor in Spanish Course Descriptions

Major in Latin American and Latino Studies

Required Courses (10)

The Major in Latin American and Latino Studies consists of 10 courses which include a minimum of three 300–400 level courses and a maximum of three in any single discipline selected from C and D. They are divided into five areas:

LAS 200

Introduction to Latin American Studies

Language: One course at level SPA 203 Spanish V: Conversational Spanish and Grammar Review, or above.

Two courses, one course in each discipline, from the following: HIS 250 Colonial Latin American History HIS 251 Modern Latin American History SPA 231 Survey of Latin American Literature 172

Five courses selected from:

CLT 256	Latino Voices
GEO 222	Regional Geography of South America
HIS 250	Colonial Latin American History
HIS 251	Modern Latin American History
HIS 389	Special Topics in History (when topic is on Latin America)
HIS 401	History Pro-Seminar (when topic is on Latin America)
HIS 402	History Seminar (when topic is on Latin America)
LAS 390	Internship
LAS 395	Special Topics
LAS 399	Independent Study
MGT 301	Business and Society
MGT 311	Diversity in the Work Force
MUS 125	World Music
SOC 216	Racial and Ethnic Relations
SPA 200	Special Topics (when topic is on Latin America)
SPA 204	Introduction to Literature-Spanish
SPA 220	Spanish Composition
SPA 225	Business Spanish: Management
SPA 226	Business Spanish: Marketing
SPA 231	Survey of Latin American Literature
SPA 380	Latin American Chronicles
SPA 384	Magical Realism and the Literature of the Fantastic
SPA 400	Special Topics, when appropriate
SOC 236	Social Justice in a Global Community

Students may choose an elective from the following courses if the course has a substantive component on Latin America, and with the approval of the director

ANT 131	Cultural Anthropology
ECO 252	Economic Development
ECO 353	International Trade
ECO 354	International Finance
GEO 251	Economic Geography
LAS 400	Latin American Studies Seminar

Note: Because of the interdisciplinary nature of this major, several courses fulfill Core requirements, thus allowing for a minor or double major. Students are encouraged to consider these options.

Course Descriptions

ASK ME ABOUT THIS PROGRAM

Faculty

Maryanne L. Leone, Ph.D Department Chair, Modern & Classical Languages Associate Professor of Spanish Department Chair, Modern and Classical Languages and Cultures

Juan Carlos Grijalva, Ph.D Associate Professor of Spanish

Arlene Guerrero-Watanabe, Ph.D Associate Professor of Spanish

Dona Kercher, Ph.D. Professor Emerita of Spanish and Film

Esteban Loustaunau, Ph.D. Professor of Spanish Director of the SOPHIA Program Director of the Center for Purpose and Vocation

Experiential Learning

Learn the Skills Employers Seek

Faculty/Student Research

The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.

Study Abroad

At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.

Internships

Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. Our Career Development and Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more.

Assumption's Rome Campus

At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)

Explore the Rome Campus

Career Paths

Boston Public Schools

EMC Corporation

Grafton Public Schools

MassMutual Financial Group

Mellon Financial

Worcester Public Schools

Pauliny Smith

Spanish 2022
Student Teaching at Algonquin Regional High School

My professors encouraged me to challenge myself and apply my education to all aspects of life.

I am very thankful for the Spanish program and professors. They emphasized the importance of culture and immersing yourself in the language to internalize what you learned and use it in daily experiences. I can't wait to reflect this in my own classroom!

Jessica Ferronetti

Spanish 2018
Spanish Teacher, Chelmsford High School

Assumption's courses and international opportunities expanded my knowledge of a language I love.

Taking courses in Spanish literature, traveling to Argentina to teach, and writing my Honor's thesis in Spanish all have made me a more effective Spanish teacher. My professors encouraged me to become a Fulbright scholar, and I share these experiences with my students.

Emily Snay

Spanish 2023
Student Teaching at Auburn Middle School

I chose to major in Spanish and can happily say it was one of the best decisions I have made!

When I started at Assumption, the only path I was sure about was that I wanted to continue learning and using Spanish in my day-to-day life. The Spanish Department and its professors have given me a deep knowledge of the language and culture, and a feeling of belonging.

Ambar Rosas Sanchez

English 2019
Marketing Freelancer, Telemundo

Assumption exposed me to new and exciting opportunities that wouldn’t have been possible elsewhere.

I wanted to learn what it would be like to work in journalism, a field I’m very passionate about, and Assumption afforded me this opportunity. Professor O'Hara was a huge influence in my decisions. She believed in me and guided me towards my professional and personal goals.

Shining Their Light

Pauliny Smith

Spanish 2022
Student Teaching at Algonquin Regional High School

My professors encouraged me to challenge myself and apply my education to all aspects of life.

I am very thankful for the Spanish program and professors. They emphasized the importance of culture and immersing yourself in the language to internalize what you learned and use it in daily experiences. I can't wait to reflect this in my own classroom!

Jessica Ferronetti

Spanish 2018
Spanish Teacher, Chelmsford High School

Assumption's courses and international opportunities expanded my knowledge of a language I love.

Taking courses in Spanish literature, traveling to Argentina to teach, and writing my Honor's thesis in Spanish all have made me a more effective Spanish teacher. My professors encouraged me to become a Fulbright scholar, and I share these experiences with my students.

Emily Snay

Spanish 2023
Student Teaching at Auburn Middle School

I chose to major in Spanish and can happily say it was one of the best decisions I have made!

When I started at Assumption, the only path I was sure about was that I wanted to continue learning and using Spanish in my day-to-day life. The Spanish Department and its professors have given me a deep knowledge of the language and culture, and a feeling of belonging.

Ambar Rosas Sanchez

English 2019
Marketing Freelancer, Telemundo

Assumption exposed me to new and exciting opportunities that wouldn’t have been possible elsewhere.

I wanted to learn what it would be like to work in journalism, a field I’m very passionate about, and Assumption afforded me this opportunity. Professor O'Hara was a huge influence in my decisions. She believed in me and guided me towards my professional and personal goals.

see another

First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting

Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.

Our Mission

Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost

We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.

Learn about financial aid

Apply

Visit Assumption

Spanish

The Spanish major is designed to contribute to your cultural and intellectual formation. You may prepare for teaching on the elementary or secondary level or for careers in social services, medical fields, law, criminology, as interpreters, translators, or representatives in business or government.

Spanish Program

Maryanne L. Leone, Ph.D

An Ideal Place To Learn

All classes taught by professors, none by teaching assistants

Students from 29 states and 21 countries

Student/Faculty ratio

Program Curriculum

ASK ME ABOUT THIS PROGRAM

Faculty

Experiential Learning

Learn the Skills Employers Seek

Faculty/Student Research

Study Abroad

Internships

Assumption's Rome Campus

Career Paths

My professors encouraged me to challenge myself and apply my education to all aspects of life.

I am very thankful for the Spanish program and professors. They emphasized the importance of culture and immersing yourself in the language to internalize what you learned and use it in daily experiences. I can't wait to reflect this in my own classroom!

Assumption's courses and international opportunities expanded my knowledge of a language I love.

Taking courses in Spanish literature, traveling to Argentina to teach, and writing my Honor's thesis in Spanish all have made me a more effective Spanish teacher. My professors encouraged me to become a Fulbright scholar, and I share these experiences with my students.

I chose to major in Spanish and can happily say it was one of the best decisions I have made!

When I started at Assumption, the only path I was sure about was that I wanted to continue learning and using Spanish in my day-to-day life. The Spanish Department and its professors have given me a deep knowledge of the language and culture, and a feeling of belonging.

Assumption exposed me to new and exciting opportunities that wouldn’t have been possible elsewhere.

I wanted to learn what it would be like to work in journalism, a field I’m very passionate about, and Assumption afforded me this opportunity. Professor O'Hara was a huge influence in my decisions. She believed in me and guided me towards my professional and personal goals.

Shining Their Light

My professors encouraged me to challenge myself and apply my education to all aspects of life.

I am very thankful for the Spanish program and professors. They emphasized the importance of culture and immersing yourself in the language to internalize what you learned and use it in daily experiences. I can't wait to reflect this in my own classroom!

Assumption's courses and international opportunities expanded my knowledge of a language I love.

Taking courses in Spanish literature, traveling to Argentina to teach, and writing my Honor's thesis in Spanish all have made me a more effective Spanish teacher. My professors encouraged me to become a Fulbright scholar, and I share these experiences with my students.

I chose to major in Spanish and can happily say it was one of the best decisions I have made!

When I started at Assumption, the only path I was sure about was that I wanted to continue learning and using Spanish in my day-to-day life. The Spanish Department and its professors have given me a deep knowledge of the language and culture, and a feeling of belonging.

Assumption exposed me to new and exciting opportunities that wouldn’t have been possible elsewhere.

I wanted to learn what it would be like to work in journalism, a field I’m very passionate about, and Assumption afforded me this opportunity. Professor O'Hara was a huge influence in my decisions. She believed in me and guided me towards my professional and personal goals.

First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting

Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost

Related Programs

English

French

German

Italian Studies

Latin American and Latino Studies

Medieval and Early Modern Studies