In the 21st century, the ability to communicate with speakers of Spanish and an understanding of the Hispanic cultures both within our country's borders and beyond have become increasingly important due to the greater influence of this language and its speakers in the business, political, and educational spheres of the United States and to the heightened interdependence between the U.S. and our Spanish-American neighbors.
To meet these needs, the Department of Spanish and Classical Languages has designed programs to enable students to develop their communication skills and to acquire insights into Hispanic cultures. We offer three degree programs: the B.A. in Spanish, the B.A. in Spanish for International Trade, and the B.S. in Secondary Spanish Education. Additionally, a Minor in Spanish complements many majors such as French, Criminology, and Hotel and Restaurant Management.
Another program, commonly called FLISET (Foreign Language and International Studies for Elementary Teachers), prepares teachers for bilingual and total-immersion schools. All students who study Spanish, whether or not they are enrolled in a formal degree program, are encouraged to participate in one or more of our international programs in Spain, in Mexico, and in Costa Rica.
The department also provides the opportunity for students to experience an involvement in professional activities through Department-sponsored conferences and publications.