Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵ

Spanish is the second language of the United States, and being able to understand, speak, read, and write in Spanish will not only give students a strong competitive edge in the job market, but will also help them to become better citizens of the world. A degree or minor in Spanish will not only give students a bilingual advantage, but will also attest to their ability to achieve challenging goals.

The Spanish program at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵincludes instructions in the Spanish language (both Peninsular and Latin American variants), as well as many courses in the culture and history of both Spain and Latin America.

At WCU, students of Spanish have a choice of various degree options:

Those who want a strong foundation in both language and culture can pursue a with a minor or second major in another field.

For students who are already involved in another degree program, it may be an advantage to consider a

Of course, our courses are also open to all students who meet the prerequisites, and we encourage students from other disciplines to learn as much as they can with us, even if they are unable to pursue a degree program at this time.

Want to use your Spanish in the local community? You can help out with organizations like  and the Mountain Area Pro Bono Health Services.

Placement Assessment Information

If you would like to register for Spanish 101, we need to make you aware of our placement assessment policy as you will get an error message if you attempt to register for the course.  If you've had Spanish in high school, you will need to take the online placement assessment so we can place you according to your current language level.

If you place higher than 101 and take the course you've placed into, you will receive free bypass credit for up to 2 courses bypassed if your final grade is C or higher in that course. 

If you haven't had Spanish in high school or for instructions on how to immediately take the placement assessment, please email Melissa Allen.  If you are a Heritage speaker or if you have transferred Spanish credits from another college or university, please do not take the assessment.  Contact Mr. David Jons and he will give you further instructions.

Costa Rica Summer Program

Our department also offers a faculty-led study abroad program to Heredia, nestled in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. Students will take culture and language classes (six total credits) and will stay with host families for the four-week program. During the trip, students will take excursions to the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, as well as visit volcanoes, hot springs, and waterfalls!

In addition to exploring the natural beauty of Costa Rica, we will engage with Costa Rican culture with dance lessons, a traditional cooking class, and city tours of Heredia and San José. Of course, the best way to learn about culture is to live it every day chatting and eating with your host family! For more information, please contact David Jons at djons@wcu.edu, or Michael Martinez at mlmartinez@wcu.edu.

For those interested in spending a semester or academic year in Spain, Latin America, or other locations should contact Office of Global Engagement.

Spanish Newsletter Archives