¡Es un gran día para ser un Hornet!
Recent Shenandoah Spanish majors and minors are working in a wide range of fields, including education, nursing, pharmacy, criminal justice and corrections, business management, theatre & dance, psychology, cybersecurity, communications, the nonprofit world, and even ethnomusicology! Since 2010, our alumni have gone on to study at prestigious graduate programs at schools like Stanford, George Mason University, University of Texas-Austin, Vanderbilt University, Columbia Teachers College, Marymount University, and, of course, right here at Shenandoah.
Studying Spanish is not just about understanding, speaking, and writing the language. It goes beyond that: it involves understanding the cultural richness that each Spanish-speaking country offers, respecting different beliefs and traditions, and, most importantly, demonstrating cultural competence in the professional field. Studying Spanish equips you with the tools to navigate diverse cultures and develop an open-minded view that values the beauty of each one.”
Denisse Suasnavas ’24 | Environmental Science and Spanish double major
The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish — whether completed alone or combined with another major— is intended for students who want to integrate Spanish-language proficiency and/or Hispanic Studies into their chosen careers.
The program includes courses designed to help students develop their skills in speaking, listening comprehension, reading, writing, interpersonal communication, critical thinking and cultural competency. Our small, interactive classes are led by professors who combine cutting-edge scholarship with individualized attention to help you develop to your fullest potential.
Spanish majors and minors will gain an understanding of Hispanic cultures in Spain and Latin America, as well as in the United States. A distinguishing feature of the program is the requirement that students majoring in Spanish must complete an internship working among Hispanics in the Winchester-Frederick County community. Students are strongly encouraged to study abroad via one of the many short-term and semester-long programs available through Shenandoah’s Center for International Programs.
Learn More About This Program
Enrich your career and become a global citizen through a greater understanding of languages and cultures.
Shenandoah University’s Department of Languages and Cultural Studies seeks to prepare students to be true Global Citizens. In addition to instruction in Spanish, French, German, American Sign Language and Mandarin, we promote community service in the target language and study abroad opportunities around the world.
In today’s global marketplace, languages are a valuable addition to your résumé, opening doors to better career opportunities and higher salaries.
Shenandoah University’s College of Arts & Sciences is your direct connection to a classic, broad-based education to satisfy both your intellectual curiosity and career goals. With an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, small classes and individualized learning opportunities, we put students at the center of all our decisions and events.
We blend the liberal arts with pre-professional courses and hands-on learning to prepare you for careers in the natural sciences, the social sciences and the humanities. You’ll learn through small, engaging classes and relationships with faculty mentors; hone your skills to solve problems; and learn to use creativity and critical thinking to make informed decisions.
Minor in This Program
The minor in Spanish is for students preparing to integrate language skills and Hispanic studies into their chosen careers. The program includes courses designed to help students develop their skills in speaking, listening comprehension, reading and writing. Students will gain an understanding of Hispanic cultures in Spain and Latin America, as well as in the United States. A distinguishing feature of the program is the requirement that all minors do internships working among Hispanics in the Winchester-Frederick County community.
I am currently in a Doctor of Physical Therapy program, so being able to have another communication toolbox breaks some of those barriers. I have had opportunities to communicate with patients in Spanish in the health care setting, and I have noticed they open up a lot more when someone listens (physically and emotionally). It is important to meet someone where they are at so they have more trust in you as a health care professional.”
Grace Thompson ’21 | Current DPT student; B.S. Exercise Science (Spanish Minor)
The minor requires a total of 19 academic credits.
Course Requirements
Required coursework for the Spanish Minor:
- SPAN 202 Intermediate Spanish II Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 300 Exploring the World Through Spanish Credit(s): 3
Spanish Composition:
- SPAN 302 Spanish Composition or SPAN 412 Advanced Written Spanish Credit(s): 3
Spanish Internships:
- Internships Credit(s): 4* (SPAN 391, SPAN 392 or SPAN 393)
*It is recommended that students take at least one credit of internship each semester beginning with the junior year.
Spanish Electives – 6 credits selected from the following courses:
SPAN 302 Spanish Composition (if not taken for composition requirement) Credit(s): 3
SPAN 305 Spanish for the Professions Credit(s): 3
SPAN 306 Spanish for Healthcare Credit(s): 3
SPAN 307 Readings Chicana/O Literature & Culture Credit(s): 3
SPAN 308 Spanish Cinema Credit(s): 3
SPAN 309 Latin American Cinema Credit(s): 3
SPAN 311 Spanish Civilization and Culture Credit(s): 3
SPAN 312 Latin American Civilization and Culture Credit(s): 3
SPAN 325 Survey of Latin American Literature Credit(s): 3
SPAN 403 Topics Credit(s): 3
SPAN 405 Latin American Cinema Credit(s): 3
SPAN 412 Advanced Written Spanish (if not taken for composition requirement) Credit(s): 3
SPAN 416 The Southern Cone Credit(s): 3
SPAN 417 Andean Literature and Culture Credit(s): 3
SPAN 420 Spanish Literature through Popular Culture Credit(s): 3
SPAN 430 Senior Seminar and Project Credit(s): 3
4 credits of internship selected from the following courses:
SPAN 391 Internship in Spanish Credit(s): 1
SPAN 392 Internship in Spanish Credit(s): 2
SPAN 393 Internship in Spanish Credit(s): 3
Declaring A Minor
Shenandoah students work with their Academic Advisor to declare a minor. Academic Advisors will continue to work with students to ensure that they fulfill all of the requirements to complete the minor.
Incoming students should not indicate their intended minor on their Shenandoah application. Applications are for intended majors only.
Internship Possibilities
A distinguishing feature of the program is the requirement that students majoring and minoring in Spanish must complete an internship working among the Spanish-speaking population in the Winchester-Frederick County community and/or beyond.
My Spanish internship at Sinclair Health Clinic was pivotal in applying what I learned. My knowledge of Spanish landed me a paid position at the clinic immediately after graduation.”
Kiana Morris ’22 | Spanish and Public Health
Career & Professional Development is dedicated to helping Shenandoah students search and apply for internships that will provide them with professional experience and/or personally significant opportunities. These types of internships will distinguish you as a job applicant, provide hands-on experience in your field, allow you to sample different career paths for your major, and help you find a specific position that fits your passion before graduation. Most importantly, however, is that when students find a volunteer opportunity that excites them, these internships become much more meaningful, rewarding, and fun! Students have volunteered with the Kids Clubs of Northern Shenandoah Valley, the local medical center and free clinics, the area public schools (some of which have language immersion classes), and international news digests, just to name a few.
Career and Salary Possibilities
Career and Salary Examples for Spanish Majors:
- Transportation Planner: $80,650
- Postsecondary teacher: $71, 210
- Interpreter and Translator: $48,360
- Broadcast News Analyst: $89,240
- City and Regional Planning Aid: $45,760
- Copywriter: $69,130
- Editor: $64,910
- Logistics Analyst: $77,470
- Public Relations Specialist: $65,830
- Purchasing Agent: $66,120
- Recreation Worker: $26,610
- Reporter and Correspondent: $46,560
- Training and Development Specialist: $62,460
- High School Teacher: $29,639 – $79,396
- Human Resources (HR) Manager: $41,212 – $100,500
Career & Professional Development provides a comprehensive range of services and resources to assist Shenandoah students in their career search. Services offered include resume and cover letter building, mock interviews, and professional dining etiquette workshops.
Classes
18 credits of required coursework for the Spanish Major:
- SPAN 202: Intermediate Spanish II Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 300 Making Sense: Exploring the World Through Spanish Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 302 Spanish Composition Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 311 Spanish Civilization and Culture Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 312 Latin American Civilization and Culture Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 430 Senior Seminar and Project Credit(s): 3
15 credits selected from the following courses:
- SPAN 305 Spanish for the Professions Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 306 Spanish for Healthcare Professionals Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 307 Readings in Chicana/o Literature and Culture Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 308 Spanish Cinema Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 309 Latin American Cinema Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 416 The Southern Cone Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 403 Topics Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 412 Advanced Written Spanish Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 417 Andean Literature and Culture Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 420 Spanish Literature Through Popular Culture Credit(s): 3
- SPAN 425 Survey of Latin American Literature Credit(s): 3
6 credits of internship selected from the following courses:
SPAN 391 Internship in Spanish Credit(s): 1
SPAN 392 Internship in Spanish Credit(s): 2
SPAN 393 Internship in Spanish Credit(s): 3
*Spanish majors are also encouraged to have competence in a second foreign language through the intermediate level. The second language competency may be achieved by a combination of prior coursework, qualifying examination, and/or study abroad.
Learning support services are available to all students in every course at Shenandoah. Free peer tutoring with a student who has previously succeeded in the course is available for any course across the university. The Writing Center is available for every stage of the writing process from thesis development to proofreading and bibliography assistance. The Math Enrichment Center is available for math and science assistance. Professors and Academic Advisors across the university also have office hours and open door policies to ensure Shenandoah students succeed academically.
Join the Honors Program
The Honors Program is a multidisciplinary Honors Program for students who are curious, creative, self-motivated, and eager to engage in their education and community.
Not only do Honors Program students partake in honors courses that emphasize collaboration, service, and communication, but they will also have the opportunity to develop aspects of the program based on their own interests and goals. By participating in the Honors Program you will acquire the tools, knowledge and experiences necessary to make meaningful contributions to your community – whether it be globally, locally, or specific to your life’s work. You will have access to unique courses, exciting experiences and a community of peers and faculty who never stop asking questions and striving for excellence.
Application Information
Shenandoah University works on rolling admissions and accepts applications throughout the year. Applications are reviewed individually and holistically.
Submit your application, review required admission materials, and find our admissions standards.
Meet the Faculty
Imagine participating in interesting conversations led by engaging professors who’ve already done what you dream of doing. You’ll be in a small class — the average class size is approximately 12 students — with professors who know your name, care about your success and provide advice as you pursue your academic and career goals.
I chose to declare Spanish as a major because Dr. Andrea Smith believed in me. I was so hesitant to add a second major as a sophomore at Shenandoah, but Dr. Smith’s unwavering support had me sold. She is the reason I was able to cultivate my skills and deepen my passion for both theatre and Spanish during my time at SU.”
Maya Devi Bhatnagar ’22, ’23 | M.S. in Performing Arts Leadership & Management (PALM); B.F.A. in Theatre Design & Production with an Emphasis in Stage Management, B.A. in Spanish (biology and psychology minors)
Meet Bryan Pearce-Gonzalez, Department Chair & Professor of Hispanic Studies
Study Abroad
Make studying abroad the highlight of your college experience! Whether you go for a year, a semester, or just a few weeks. You will never forget learning in another culture! The Center for International Programs is here to help you plan your study abroad experience. Start your planning early to ensure the courses you complete abroad count toward your degree and you graduate on time.
Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program
The Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program offers Shenandoah students a short-term, faculty-led, study-abroad experience for academic credit. These short-term, credit-bearing, faculty-led programs are offered winter break, spring break, and during the summer. If a course is not within your major, it might be used as an elective.
Taking GEL courses and getting to travel to Mexico and Cuba gave me a different experience by being immersed in the language and culture of these countries. I held conversations with native speakers! There are really no other experiences like these and they are trips I will never forget.”
Maya Horner ’24 | Spanish and Exercise Science (biology and psychology minors)
Study Abroad
Shenandoah University is a member of the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), a global network of 300 universities. This partnership allows students to study for a full semester or year at other member campuses abroad. By working closely with their academic advisors and the study abroad advisor, students can take classes taught in English abroad while receiving Shenandoah credit.
Shenandoah University also maintains direct partnerships with several universities around the world. These relationships allow students from SU to study abroad as exchange students and students from these universities to study at SU. All partner universities offer courses taught in English.
