Spanish and Portuguese
The Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Portuguese provides students with an immersive and interdisciplinary education in two of the world’s most widely spoken Romance languages. Over four years, students develop advanced proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension in both Spanish and Portuguese while exploring the rich literary, historical, and cultural traditions of the Iberian Peninsula, Latin America, and Lusophone regions. The program emphasizes both linguistic mastery and cultural understanding, encouraging students to critically engage with literature, film, history, and contemporary social issues in the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking world.
Students are exposed to a combination of language courses, literature analysis, and cultural studies, fostering strong analytical, communication, and cross-cultural skills. Opportunities for study abroad, internships, and community engagement allow students to apply their language skills in real-world settings, gaining firsthand experience with regional dialects, cultural practices, and social contexts. By integrating theoretical knowledge with experiential learning, students are equipped to navigate professional and academic environments that demand linguistic competence, cultural literacy, and adaptability in a globalized world.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Spanish and Portuguese
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Emory University, United States
- Field of Study: Iberian studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Language and Culture
• Elementary Spanish I & II
• Elementary Portuguese I & II
• Introduction to Iberian and Latin American Cultures
• College Writing and Research
Year 2 – Intermediate Language and Literary Analysis
• Intermediate Spanish & Portuguese I & II
• Spanish and Portuguese Grammar and Composition
• Introduction to Hispanic and Lusophone Literature
• Cultural History of the Iberian Peninsula
Year 3 – Advanced Language and Cultural Studies
• Advanced Spanish & Portuguese Conversation
• Literature from the Spanish and Portuguese Speaking Worlds
• Film, Media, and Society in Iberian Cultures
• Elective: Translation, Linguistics, or Regional Studies
Year 4 – Integration and Capstone
• Seminar in Spanish and Portuguese Studies
• Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
• Study Abroad or Internship
• Elective: Comparative Cultural Studies / Language Policy
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Spanish and Portuguese program are well-prepared for careers requiring multilingual communication, cultural awareness, and analytical skills. Career paths include international business, diplomacy, translation and interpretation, education, journalism, cultural programming, and nonprofit work. Many graduates also pursue advanced degrees in fields such as linguistics, international relations, comparative literature, or area studies. Employers value their ability to navigate complex cultural contexts, communicate effectively across languages, and analyze social, political, and economic phenomena in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking regions. Graduates are equipped to thrive in global environments and contribute meaningfully to multicultural teams and initiatives.
Why Choose This Program
This program provides a unique opportunity to gain fluency in two influential world languages while deeply engaging with diverse cultural traditions and historical contexts. Emory University emphasizes experiential learning, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary study, allowing students to develop practical language skills alongside analytical and critical thinking abilities. Students graduate with the knowledge, cultural competence, and communication expertise to excel in academic, professional, and international settings. Whether pursuing careers in diplomacy, global business, education, or cultural research, the program prepares students to navigate and influence the interconnected, multilingual world with confidence and insight.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 404 727 6123
Email: contentedit@emory.edu
Address: University of Emory, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
