World Languages and Cultures – Spanish
The Department of World Languages and Cultures creates a strong foundation for learning a variety of languages, both in our courses and through study abroad opportunities.
Major programs in the bachelor of arts degree in Spanish, and education programs in elementary or secondary education with a concentration in Spanish, offer students a curriculum that is balanced between the study of language, cultures, and literary traditions from Spain and Latin America, as well as a greater awareness of the vital connections between global and local Hispanic communities.
In advanced courses for majors and minors, our curriculum retains the strengths of traditional linguistic analysis, and adds a cutting-edge cultural studies focus to the study of literature and civilizations. Students at all levels develop language proficiency, in addition to critical thinking and problem solving skills, oral communication, and writing abilities, which are all key competencies for a variety of professional careers.
- Program type: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science
- Minors / Options: Spanish Option, Secondary Education: Spanish, Elementary Education: Spanish, Minor in Spanish
- School: Macricostas School of Arts & Sciences
- Primary Location: Midtown campus
- Program Sheets:
The Department of World Languages & Cultures opens doors to the 21st century global economy with the continued growing demand for language skills for business, government, community groups, and international organizations.
In our language programs, students are encouraged to be critical thinking citizens and leaders of our increasingly interdependent world community. Our students learn to view the world from diverse perspectives, and to cross borders through effective communication based on an appreciation of cultural diversity.
Through the study of language, culture, translation, and great works, students gain access to professional opportunities: travel, promotions, and an edge in our increasingly competitive employment market. Language and culture proficiency gives students the power to think quickly from diverse viewpoints to make proposals, solve problems, and interact with diverse local and international populations, students, or clients. Even when bilingualism is not the deciding factor for initial employment, evidence confirms that language skills can enhance mobility and aid in admission to graduate study and job promotion.
The Department of World Languages & Cultures at Western Connecticut State University adheres to national standards for foreign language learning determined by ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) for language proficiency and cultural competency through the 5 C’s: Communication, Cultures, Comparisons, Connections, and Communities.
The ACTFL proficiency scale from 2012 established guidelines for language proficiency at the following levels:
- Novice (Low, Mid, High)
- Intermediate (Low, Mid, High)
- Advanced (Low, Mid, High)
- Superior
- Distinguished
Minor Program Sheets:
To learn more about the Spanish degree, please follow the links below