If you are interested in languages and the people who speak them, consider a major in Spanish. You will develop advanced skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in one of the world’s most widely spoken languages. You will also explore linguistics, literature, and the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.
Why Iowa?
Iowa’s Department of Spanish and Portuguese offers a highly flexible undergraduate program. You can combine your Spanish major with other University of Iowa majors, minors, or certificates to complement your interests and professional goals. You will also have opportunities to participate in a wide range of study abroad programs.
The department’s faculty includes many native speakers, accomplished scholars, and award-winning instructors, including recipients of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Collegiate Teaching Award. Faculty research has earned prestigious support, including fellowships from organizations such as the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Rockefeller Foundation, the Fulbright-Hays Program, and the University of Iowa’s Obermann Center for Advanced Studies.
The department also offers a minor in Portuguese and and a certificate and minor in Latin American studies, an interdisciplinary undergraduate program focusing on the history, politics, social organization, economy, art, music, religion, and literature of Latin America.
You can also pair Spanish with an additional major that complements your interests and professional goals, such as health sciences, business, international studies, journalism and mass communication, psychology, translation, world language education, and many others.
Admission Requirements
Students interested in this major need to meet the requirements for admission to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
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Careers and Outcomes
Within six months of graduating, 95 percent of Iowa graduates are employed, continuing education, or not seeking work. Our Pomerantz Career Center offers multiple resources to help students find internships and jobs.
A Spanish major develops communication, critical-thinking, and intercultural skills that are valuable across a wide range of careers. Career preparation is integrated into the Spanish program, helping students recognize how their language, communication, and intercultural skills can provide a competitive advantage in a variety of professional fields.
Student Opportunities
In addition to more than 600 student organizations, Iowa students choose from more than 100 study abroad programs and multiple undergraduate research opportunities.
You will find multiple opportunities to learn and connect outside the classroom. You can practice your Spanish at biweekly conversation groups or get involved with Spanish Club and Club Bilingüe, which provides a unique opportunity for heritage speakers. You can also take advantage of free Spanish tutoring and attend events featuring visiting authors, filmmakers, scholars, and other guests.
The department also participates in Study Abroad Programs in Spain (Alicante, Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, San Sebastián, Seville, and Valladolid) and Latin America (Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, and Uruguay). Some take place during the academic year and others are offered during the summer.
Scholarships
The University of Iowa provides a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students through the Iowa Scholarship Portal. Scholarships are available to first-year, transfer, and currently enrolled students. For additional details on scholarships for your program of study, check directly with the department or college.
The Office of Admissions and the Office of Student Financial Aid are great resources for students seeking scholarships.
Coursework
As a Spanish major, you will develop strong language skills through meaningful speaking and writing practice. You will also deepen your understanding of the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.
Required coursework includes Spanish writing, Hispanic linguistics, and courses in Peninsular and/or Spanish American literature and culture. You will also choose from a range of electives and may complete a concentration in linguistics, cultures, or professional communication. Students also must complete the requirements of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core.
See Spanish in the UI General Catalog to learn about required course work for the major or minor and graduating with honors.
Teaching Licensure
Students who want to teach Spanish at the elementary and/or secondary level must complete the requirements for both the Spanish major and the College of Education's Teacher Education Program (TEP). The Teacher Education Program requires education courses and one semester of student teaching.
Spanish Courses for Nonmajors
Students majoring in other disciplines may fulfill the world language component of their college's General Education Program with approved sequences of either Spanish or Portuguese language courses. Additional Spanish and Portuguese courses are approved to satisfy other General Education requirements.