• Goals and Objectives
• Curriculum Overview
  • Hispanic Studies Major and Minor
  • Honors Program
  • Study Abroad Courses
• Study Abroad Programs
• Student Resources
• Hispanic Studies Faculty
• Latin American Resources
• Hispanic Studies SharePoint

Hispanic Studies Major and Minor

The Hispanic Studies Major

A major in Hispanic Studies consists of the following required courses: 212, 310 or 311, and 312 plus at least six four-credit courses in HISP numbered 320 and higher, plus 399, and may include 12 transfer credits for study abroad.

Students majoring in Hispanic Studies must take at least one course each in the areas of literature, culture and linguistics beyond Spanish 312. All Spanish majors are strongly encouraged to spend at least one semester in a Spanish-speaking country. Many of our students also pursue a Minor with Latin American Studies or a double major in related fields such as Education, Management, Political Science, Biology, History, English, Nursing, Social Work, etc. Courses taken in Spanish but with a disciplinary designation other than HISP will not be accepted as credits for the Hispanic Studies major or minor. This rule does not affect HISP designated courses that are accepted by other programs (such as Latino/Latin American Studies). Students wishing to obtain a high school or elementary teaching certificate should consult the department chairperson for required or recommended courses in other departments.

The Hispanic Studies Minor

A minor in Hispanic Studies consists of 212, 310 or 311, 312 plus two four-credit courses in HISP numbered 320 and higher with an expectation of balance between literature, culture and linguistics. Courses taken in Spanish but with a disciplinary designation other than HISP will not be accepted as credits for the Hispanic Studies major or minor. This rule does not affect HISP designated courses that are accepted by other programs (such as Latino/Latin American Studies).

Initial Placement for Hispanic Studies Language Courses

The particular entry point within the sequence of language courses depends upon a student’s background in Spanish and upon the results of a placement test, administered at the beginning of each semester for those beginning SPAN 111, 112 and 211. The placement test is required of every student with a prior knowledge of Spanish who wishes to enroll. The placement exam will be available online before registration.

Honors Program in Hispanic Studies?

The honors program in Hispanic Studies is a two-semester sequence of six hours of independent study, in consultation with a faculty advisor, culminating in either an honors thesis or a special project, e.g., a translation, creative writing, or video project. Admission is determined based on faculty recommendations and a minimum of 3.2 grade-point average in Spanish. (This minimum grade point average is a proposal to be discussed by the Section).

The department, in association with the Latino/Latin America learning Community, sponsors reading groups and Spanish language floor residence. The purpose of these programs is to provide an environment where students speak Spanish and benefit from activities related to the cultures of the Hispanic world.

In accordance with the mission of the colleges, the Department of Hispanic Studies educates students to become better global citizens through instruction in foreign language, literature and culture and fosters integrated learning, exceptional leadership for change, and wisdom for a lifetime.