Spanish Studies
The TTU Spanish Program
The CMLL Spanish Program is ranked among the top U.S. programs by the National Research Council. In addition to great lower-level classes where students learn through a communication-based curriculum, we offer advanced language courses in conversation, composition and grammar. Other upper-level offerings include courses in business Spanish, theater, literature, and the cultures of Spain, Spanish America and the American Southwest, and Hispanic minorities in the United States. To complement their studies at the main campus in Lubbock, students are encouraged to study abroad.
Why Study Spanish?
Many students study Spanish because they like the language and culture and would like to teach it, but there are many other very practical reasons for continuing what was begun in high school. There are numerous important personal and career enhancements (see our Career Opportunities page) that come with learning Spanish.
In these post-NAFTA days of international trade, a major or minor in Spanish definitely enhances the résumé‚ and can give the graduate a competitive edge when seeking employment. Because of the large number of Spanish speakers in Texas, the same is true for those students who plan to practice medicine or law or any profession where contact with the public is important.
Our graduates have gone on to become university professors, teachers, doctors, dentists, lawyers, social workers, missionaries, journalists, translators, entrepreneurs and marketers.
Spanish Major
The Spanish major consists of 30 hours of course work at the 2000 level and above with a minimum of 12 hours at the senior level. The department offers a free Placement Exam through which students may earn up to 16 hours of credit (first and second year courses). Courses are offered in language, culture, and literature. At least 9 upper level hours must be taken at TTU; 6 hours of advanced courses must be writing intensive. Each major is tailored to the student's individual needs
Spanish Minor
A Spanish minor consists of a minimum of 18 hours (20 hours if a student begins at Spanish 1502 or 1507). It includes 15 hours at the 2000 level and above, and requires at least 3 hours at the 4000 level. At least 3 upper level hours must be taken through TTU.
Students may also minor in Portuguese or in Latin American and Iberian Studies (LAIS), an interdisciplinary program which allows study of various aspects of Spanish and Portuguese speaking countries.
Dual BA/MA Program
Beginning fall 2004, selected students can get both a BA and an MA in Spanish in 5 years by "double-applying" 9 hours of upper-level course work to both degrees. The 5th year is normally funded; students participate in teaching beginning Spanish and are paid as a Teaching Assistant or Graduate Part-Time Instructor. Some summer school required. Applications are competitive.
Sevilla, Spain Semester and Summer Program
Sevilla is a vibrant, dynamic city located in the province of Andalucía in southern Spain, and TTU offers a fantastic study abroad program there. There are a myriad of things to see and do. The campus is located in the downtown area close to where the students are housed with host families. The location of Sevilla provides convenient access for our numerous excursions including Granada, Córdoba, Madrid, Toledo and is within one hour of the beaches of Costa del Sol. Students may study during the fall and spring semester taking up to 15 hours of Spanish, or study during the summer to earn 6 hours of credit. See the CMLL Advising Center or the Program Director, Dr. Idoia Elola , for additional details.
Scholarships for Spanish Majors
CMLL offers scholarships for students in Spanish. The deadline for applications is February 1st. Scholarships are competitive.
Options for Distance BGS Students
CMLL offers two courses for students pursuing the at-a-distance Bachelor of General Studies Degree:
- Spanish 1607:270 provides a comprehensive first year course
- Spanish 2607:271 is the followup comprehensive second year course
The courses are available completely at-a-distance for xBGS students, do not require any residency and will satisfy the foreign language requirement of the degree. Students participate in the courses through the online virtual learning environment, WebCT.
Major examinations (mid-term and final) must be taken at Academic Testing Services in West Hall. For more information about the above courses, please contact the CMLL Advising Center, indicated below.
Undergraduate Advising
For more information on advising or to visit with the undergraduate Spanish Advisor, please contact:
Liz Hildebrand, Senior Advisor
FL 200B
(806) 742-4055
liz.hildebrand@ttu.edu