Hispanic Studies Major
Language competency is an important life skill and career asset. Salve Regina University's Hispanic studies program allows you to become proficient in the language while exploring the cultures, history and literature of the Spanish-speaking world.
With only 11 courses required for the major, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to double major or minor in areas like business administration, global business and economics, global studies, healthcare administration or social work.
Seek New Experiences
You'll gain a deeper understanding of cultural differences and similarities, exercise your responsibilities as a global citizen and promote meaningful cross-cultural exchange. Our majors spend at least one semester studying in a Spanish-speaking country, and experiential learning abroad is supported wherever possible.
Our program covers all aspects of the language, from speaking to writing, with a focus on grammar and expression. You’ll also study culture and civilization by looking at the literature, films and other cultural products of the Hispanic world in their social, historical and cultural contexts.
If you’re interested in teaching Spanish, our world languages education program will prepare you to apply for Rhode Island teacher certification for grades K-12.
Teach Around the World
John Rangel Marte '23 is teaching in Spain through the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program. As an undergraduate, he participated in Pathways, which guides first-generation students to high school graduation and college enrollment, and Fab Newport, a local community makerspace. "Working with students of different ages through Pathways and Fab Newport gave me great experience and confidence for my studying and teaching in Barcelona," he said. "I'm thrilled to continue contributing to the world and local community here in Rhode Island."
Expand Your Possibilities
Lindsey Smith '24 chose to double major in Hispanic studies and social work, which opened many opportunities, including a life-changing study abroad experience in Sevilla, Spain. "I grew my cultural competence, knowledge of different cultures and strengthened my Spanish-speaking skills," she said. "By being a double major, I had the opportunity to take additional classes to enhance my Spanish and learn more about different cultures. As a social worker, I hope to use my knowledge of Spanish to assist more people."
Immerse Yourself
Our Language House is a living learning community where you can connect with others who share a love for Spanish language and culture. You'll live with fellow enthusiasts and our Fulbright foreign language teaching assistants, practice your language skills and engage with native speakers. Activities include language tables, movie nights and volunteering to teach Spanish at a local elementary school's after-school program.
Career Paths in Hispanic Studies
Whether you continue your studies in graduate programs or start a career in fields like business, international relations, law, teaching or government service, you’ll have the oral and written communication skills needed for success, along with the flexibility to adapt to cultural differences in an ever-changing world.
A look at where our alumni are now:
- Care manager, Lawndale Christian Health Center
- EL coordinator, The Community Group
- Influencer marketing coordinator, Short Par 4
- Intelligence specialist, Air Force Civilian Service
- International supply chain manager, Equal Exchange
- Mission advancement senior manager, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas
- Primary school teacher, Highlands School (Sevilla, Spain)
- Quality assurance analyst senior, General Dynamics Electric Boat
- Senior consultant, ECG Management Consultants
- Senior visas and compliance coordinator, Hult International Business School
Degree Options
Bachelor of Arts in Hispanic studies
Courses in language, literature and culture provide opportunities to achieve aural, oral, reading and writing proficiency in Spanish. A key part of our curriculum is an in-depth exposure to Spanish culture and civilization through study abroad, as well as the study of Hispanic literature in its social, historical and cultural contexts.
Minor in Hispanic studies
Prepare to Teach Spanish in Grades K-12
If you want to teach Spanish, our world languages education program will develop your linguistic skills and prepare you to apply for Rhode Island teacher certification for grades K- 12. Through the program, you'll master the Spanish language and gain the knowledge to confidently move from being a student in the classroom to a teacher who makes a difference.
Meet Our Hispanic Studies Faculty
With experience living and studying around the globe, our faculty specialize in Spanish language and culture. We also host visiting professors from countries like Argentina, Colombia, Spain and Uruguay through the Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant Program.
