Spanish Studies at UMD
Students who wish to study Spanish at UMD have two options: Language and Culture Studies or Latin America.
Language and Culture
The Language and Culture Studies sub-plan fosters the development of cross-cultural competency and broader world perspectives through the study of history, cultural production, and texts of inherently diverse Spanish-speaking communities and cultures. This major guides students to the acquisition of the Spanish language in order to carry out coursework in the study, analysis, and understanding of literary texts and cultural products from Latin America, Spain, and United States Latino communities. Students in this sub-plan gain proficiency in the Spanish language and essential skills, like critical analysis, empathy, and cultural awareness. Because this major requires a second field of study, this sub-plan prepares students for a wide variety of careers, graduate programs, and professional school programs. Graduates might go on to work in the STEM fields; for non-profit organizations, for the government, or in education; companies with international ties and who value bilingualism and inclusivity; among many other career possibilities.
Spanish Studies majors on the Language & Culture track are required to successfully complete an Oral Proficiency Exam before graduating. Please click on the link for further information.
Latin America
Students interested in intensifying their study of Latin America are advised to consider the Latin America subplan. Students will apply their linguistic and interdisciplinary skills to a wide variety of local, regional, national, or international career choices. This subplan requires a study abroad or internship requirement, a requirement that gives students credit for an immersion in a Spanish-speaking community abroad or in a United States Latino community. If they choose a study abroad experience, students will cultivate the ability to articulate a keen understanding of the role of race, class, gender, sustainability, and human rights as they pertain to Spanish-speaking North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. If they select an internship, students will put their Spanish language skills to use and acquire direct experience in a local, state, or private entity.
Not sure which Spanish language course you should take first? Click Placement Information to determine your best fit!
To learn more about opportunities and resources available for students, click Student Resources.
To learn more about the skills you can develop by taking Spanish, see the Student Learning Outcomes for the Spanish Studies program.
Contact Prof. Jennifer Brady ([email protected]) with questions.