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Spanish
Build fluency in one of the world’s most widely spoken languages while gaining cultural insight into Spanish-speaking communities. This specialization prepares you for careers in business, government, education, and more—whether language is your main focus or a valuable complement to another field.
With options to tailor your path toward international trade or public service, you’ll develop skills that enhance your marketability and global perspective. Spanish proficiency offers not only career advantages but also personal growth and a deeper connection to diverse cultures.
Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements
The Spanish Specializations can be earned by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
- Total Degree Requirements: 118 credit hours
- University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
- College of Liberal Arts Requirements: 12 credit hours
- Courses Spanish: 9 credit hours
- Language Electives: 21 credit hours
- General Electives: 37 credit hours
Check out the undergraduate Curricular Guide, which helps you outline what courses you would want to take each semester for all four years.
Bachelor of Science Degree Requirements
(K-12 Teaching License, School of Education)
The Spanish Specializations can be earned by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree.
- Total Degree Requirements: 118 credit hours
- University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
- College of Liberal Arts Requirements: 6 credit hours
- Language Area Requirements: 12 credit hours
- LCIS 436: 3 credit hours
- LING 472: 3 credit hours
- LING 444: 3 credit hours
- LING 470: 3 credit hours
- Courses Spanish: 18 credit hours
- Education Requirements: 24 credit hours
- General Electives: 9 credit hours
Why Spanish?
Studying Spanish opens the door to a world of opportunities. As the second most spoken language in the U.S. and one of the most widely spoken globally, Spanish is a valuable asset that strengthens your career prospects in fields like business, government, education, healthcare, and beyond.
Our program offers more than just language proficiency. You'll engage with a broad curriculum that includes linguistics, literature, history, film, and translation, while gaining a deeper understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures around the world. With a focus on critical thinking and cultural awareness, the Spanish program prepares you to thrive in today’s interconnected, global society.
Teaching degree (TEP)
SIU also offers a Spanish teaching licensure option for students preparing for careers in K–12 education. This path includes specialized coursework and requires admission to the Teacher Education Program through the College of Education and Human Services.
Students with prior experience in Spanish may earn proficiency credit or validate earlier coursework through CLEP exams or departmental testing. Transfer students pursuing this specialization must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours at the university.
Careers
A Spanish degree prepares you for diverse, in-demand careers. With language and cultural fluency, you’ll stand out in fields like international business, government, education, social services, and translation. As Spanish-speaking communities grow, so does the need for professionals who can connect across cultures. This degree equips you to make a global impact and thrive in a variety of roles.
Contact Information
Scott Collins
Interim Director
Faner Hall 3080
1000 Faner Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-536-5571
sll@siu.edu
Jennifer Smith,
Spanish Section Head
Faner Hall 3032
1000 Faner Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-536-5571
smithjen@siu.edu