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The Bachelor of Arts in Spanish at the University of Wisconsin offers students an in-depth study of the Spanish language, its rich literary heritage, and the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. This four-year, full-time program is designed to build fluency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, while fostering a deep understanding of the histories, identities, and traditions of Latin America, Spain, and Spanish-speaking communities in the United States. Through an immersive language curriculum and broad cultural analysis, students gain the ability to communicate effectively across borders and contexts, preparing for careers in both local and global environments.
The program emphasizes both linguistic accuracy and cultural literacy, with courses spanning from grammar and phonetics to literature, film, translation, and sociolinguistics. Students are encouraged to think critically about language as a tool for connection, representation, and social change. With opportunities for study abroad, research, and community engagement, learners develop real-world language skills and intercultural awareness. The degree not only enhances communication abilities but also strengthens students’ capacity for empathy, critical thinking, and adaptability in a multicultural world.
Year 1 – Language Foundations and Communication
• Elementary Spanish I & II
• Introduction to Hispanic Cultures
• College Writing and Rhetoric
• Language and Society
Year 2 – Intermediate Language and Cultural Exploration
• Intermediate Spanish I & II
• Spanish Conversation and Composition
• Spanish and Latin American Film
• Introduction to Spanish and Latin American Literature
Year 3 – Advanced Proficiency and Literary Analysis
• Advanced Spanish Grammar and Usage
• Survey of Spanish Literature
• Latin American History and Culture
• Elective: Spanish for Heritage Speakers or Translation Techniques
Year 4 – Special Topics, Research, and Immersion
• Seminar in Hispanic Studies
• Independent Research or Community-Based Project
• Study Abroad Capstone or Advanced Spanish Writing
• Bilingualism, Identity, and Social Justice in Spanish-Speaking Communities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in education, translation and interpretation, international relations, media, and nonprofit organizations serving bilingual populations. They often work as Spanish teachers, cultural liaisons, immigration case workers, travel coordinators, or bilingual communications specialists. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in Spanish language and literature, linguistics, Latin American studies, or comparative literature. With the increasing demand for professionals who can communicate across languages and cultures, Spanish graduates bring a unique blend of linguistic fluency and cultural competence to fields that prioritize global engagement, equity, and cross-cultural understanding.
This program offers a vibrant blend of language mastery, cultural exploration, and real-world application, making it ideal for students who seek to broaden their worldview and communicate meaningfully across cultures. At the University of Wisconsin, students benefit from dedicated faculty, small-group instruction, and access to immersive experiences through study abroad, internships, and research opportunities. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary thinking and engagement with social issues, helping students understand how language both reflects and shapes identity, politics, and community life. Whether your interests lie in education, public service, or global business, this degree equips you to connect, interpret, and lead with insight in a multilingual world.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA