Spanish and Portuguese
The Spanish and Portuguese program offers students a linguistically immersive and culturally rich education focused on two of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Through a curriculum that integrates language acquisition with the study of literature, history, film, and contemporary society, students develop high-level fluency and intercultural competence. The program provides deep exposure to Iberian and Latin American cultures, colonial histories, and modern sociopolitical issues, giving learners the tools to critically analyze texts and contexts across Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking communities.
In addition to advanced language instruction, students engage with interdisciplinary themes such as race, migration, gender, and identity as they manifest in Hispanic and Lusophone traditions. With access to study abroad programs, faculty-led research opportunities, and a wide array of electives, learners shape a personalized path that blends academic rigor with cultural exploration. Whether analyzing postcolonial literature or engaging with indigenous voices in Latin America, students sharpen their analytical and expressive abilities while gaining a nuanced understanding of diverse global perspectives. This combination of language mastery and cultural literacy prepares graduates for impactful work across international, academic, and community-based contexts.
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: 02 January 2026
- Location: Johns Hopkins University, United States
- Field of Study: Language Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Language and Culture
- Elementary and Intermediate Spanish or Portuguese
- Introduction to Iberian and Latin American Cultures
- Fundamentals of Linguistic Structure
- Academic Reading and Composition in the Target Language
Year 2 – Intermediate Literary and Cultural Studies
- Spanish and Portuguese Conversation and Composition
- Survey of Latin American or Iberian Literature
- Themes in Colonial and Postcolonial Thought
- Electives in Hispanic Film or Portuguese Music Traditions
Year 3 – Advanced Language and Thematic Exploration
- Advanced Writing and Discourse in Spanish and Portuguese
- Race, Gender, and Identity in Latin American Literature
- Comparative Studies in Iberian and Brazilian Cultures
- Study Abroad Semester or Cultural Immersion Project
Year 4 – Research, Capstone, and Professional Preparation
- Senior Thesis or Bilingual Research Portfolio
- Seminar on Transatlantic Literary Movements
- Translation Studies and Cultural Mediation
- Graduate Study and International Career Workshop
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared to enter a broad range of professional fields where multilingual fluency, cultural literacy, and analytical skills are essential. Many pursue roles in international relations, language education, translation and interpretation, and cultural affairs, where they serve as communicators, researchers, and bridge-builders between communities. Others find rewarding careers in journalism, publishing, human rights advocacy, or global health, often working in regions where Spanish and Portuguese are primary languages. The program also supports advanced study in comparative literature, international law, linguistics, or Latin American studies. With strong writing, cross-cultural communication, and research skills, graduates are highly adaptable professionals who can thrive in environments that value both language expertise and global perspective. Their ability to engage with diverse voices and navigate multilingual settings makes them valuable contributors in today’s interconnected world.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who wish to combine language mastery with cultural, literary, and historical analysis across two major world languages. At Johns Hopkins University, students benefit from individualized instruction, small seminar-style courses, and mentorship from scholars with expertise in Iberian, Latin American, and Luso-African cultures. The curriculum supports practical experience through study abroad, community engagement, and independent research, allowing students to explore topics of interest while applying their skills in meaningful contexts. Learners are encouraged to connect their linguistic training with global challenges, including migration, colonial legacy, and sociopolitical change—building an education that is both humanistic and globally relevant. With a focus on intellectual depth, cultural fluency, and interdisciplinary flexibility, this program equips students to pursue careers and graduate studies that require thoughtful engagement with the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking world.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 410 516 8000
Email: admissions@jhu.edu
Address: Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
