Spanish offers a complete program of language, application of language to other fields, literature and culture that prepares students for careers in many fields. Student options in Spanish include ten joint majors, three certifications and a minor. Majors in the traditional track, Spanish for Literary and Cultural Studies, are prepared to teach and to undertake graduate studies and research in the language.

Majors in the applied track, Spanish for Practical Applications, are prepared to use the language in linked careers such as mass media, medical professions and translation. Joint majors are available with the following departments and programs: Catholic Studies, Communication, French (Romance Languages), International Studies, Mathematics, Music, Psychology, and Romance Languages/International Studies.

Students may pursue certifications in Spanish for International Commerce, Mass Media and Spanish for Medical Professions. In cooperation with the School of Education, the program offers courses that lead to primary and secondary teaching certification in Spanish and serve the needs of those students who specialize in bilingual education.

Students in the major and certification programs reach an advanced level of proficiency in their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. They receive a vision of Hispanic culture from its prehistoric roots in Spain and pre-Colombian roots in Latin America to contemporary Hispanic culture in Spain and Spanish-America.

The program incorporates and highly recommends Spanish studies in a Spanish-speaking country. Each summer the program sponsors study abroad in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, an experience the program considers to be exceedingly important and a precursor of further study abroad.