College of Liberal Arts
Spanish
Spanish Program: Your Key to Cultural Understanding and Professional Success
Benedictine University’s Spanish program aims to equip students with comprehensive language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will also gain an in-depth understanding of Hispanic cultures, enabling them to become culturally sensitive and navigate diverse social settings effectively. Additionally, they will develop specialized terminology in various professional fields, enhancing their career prospects in an increasingly interconnected world.
The Spanish major offers students the flexibility to enhance their education and broaden their horizons by pursuing a second major or minor in another discipline. This flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals. Additionally, many Spanish courses fulfill Benedictine University’s general education requirements, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in a variety of fields.
The BenU Difference
Embrace the Spanish Language and Culture
Our faculty members who teach in the Spanish program firmly believe that, for the person who possesses the ability to communicate in another language and who shows sensitivity toward and understanding of other cultures, the world will have fewer boundaries. The development of language skills and cultural understanding and sensitivity will stimulate students’ intellectual and personal growth and broaden their perspective, thus enabling them to become responsible citizens and leaders in the world community.
The faculty subscribes to the proficiency guidelines of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) and uses them as a basis for instruction.
Program requirements:
Upon completion of this program, students will demonstrate proficiency in all four skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) of the target language at the intermediate level as defined by ACTFL (low, mid, high). They will also gain a deep understanding of the target culture, including its geography, history, art, literature, diversity (e.g. linguistic, ethnic, religious), current political issues, and their international ramifications. Additionally, students will develop the cultural competence to navigate both formal and informal contexts in the target culture.
Spanish majors must complete a study abroad experience or an internship in a Spanish-speaking setting and demonstrate Intermediate-High or higher level proficiency in spoken Spanish according to ACTFL guidelines. The oral proficiency exam is administered online and students receive a nationally recognized certificate upon passing.
Study Abroad
Spanish majors are required to participate in a study abroad experience in a Spanish-speaking country. However, in exceptional circumstances, students may petition the chair of the Department of Languages and Literature for a waiver of this requirement. In lieu of studying abroad, students who receive a waiver may be required to complete an internship of at least three semester credit hours with a service agency, educational institution, or company where Spanish is extensively used.
Teaching License Requirements
To become a licensed Spanish teacher for grades K-12, students must declare themselves as Spanish majors and Education minors, register with the Benedictine University Education Program, and meet the requirements for both the Spanish major and the Teacher Licensure Program in Education. This includes completing the Education minor and earning an Advanced-Low or higher rating on the ACTFL oral proficiency exam if required by the Illinois State Board of Education.
Here are some careers available with a Spanish BA:
- Translator
- Intrepreter
- Teacher
- Writer
- Business Person
- Diplomat
- Nonprofit worker
- Social worker
In addition to these careers, a Spanish BA can also lead to a variety of graduate school opportunities, such as a master’s degree in translation, interpretation, or Spanish literature. With a graduate degree, you will be able to specialize in a particular area of Spanish language and culture and pursue a career in academia or research.
No matter what your career goals are, a Spanish BA can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. If you are interested in learning more about the Spanish program at Benedictine University, please contact us today.
Here is an example of some courses you may take in the Spanish program:
- Elementary Spanish
- Intermediate Spanish through Study Abroad
- Spanish Civilization and Culture
- Business Spanish
- Advanced Hispanic Literature
Spanish courses (SPAN)
Internships
Intermediate Internship: This internship is designed to enhance students’ language proficiency and cultural understanding by providing them with professional experience in a human service agency, educational institution, or business organization where Spanish is the primary language. Students must apply for and be approved for the internship before participating. The internship can be taken for 1 to 6 semester credit hours.
Advanced Internship: This internship is designed to provide students with advanced professional experience that will enhance their language proficiency and cultural understanding. Students will work in a human service agency, educational institution, or business in a country where Spanish is the primary language. Students must apply for and be approved for the internship before participating. The internship can be taken for 1 to 6 semester credit hours.
Please note that both internships require department consent.
