Spanish Language Studies Minor

The Spanish Language Studies minor at Ramapo College will provide you with the skills needed to communicate efficiently and confidently in Spanish, and at the same time it will give you a solid background in the history, cultures, and literatures of the Hispanic world. Furthermore, our innovative curriculum extends beyond the traditional spaces of the Hispanic world to explore and celebrate the diversity of the Spanish-speaking communities today, including the vibrant and varied communities of the United States. This comprehensive approach to Spanish Language Studies prepares students for success in graduate school as well as a wide range of careers in business, education, community organizations, law, communications, health professions, and government.

Spanish Language Studies minors are made up of both native or heritage speakers and non-native second language learners. This not only makes for a diverse, rich classroom experience, but it also allows students to use their unique strengths and gaps in linguistic and/or cultural knowledge to learn from one another. In this way, you have the opportunity to acquire a key skill in mastering any language – understanding how we learn language itself. Studying language is one of the best ways to become culturally competent, that is, being able to interact effectively in more than one culture. Studying a second language is also a great way to improve writing and public speaking in English. Thus, by studying Spanish or any second language, you can expand your knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, idiomatic expressions and other linguistic features of their own language.

With only five required courses, two at the intermediate level, two at the 300-level and one at the 400-level, the minor is designed to pair easily with any another discipline. You may choose from a list of exciting and varied upper-level courses to fit your interests and goals, including such topics as Nueva York Latino, Hispanic Caribbean Writers, Popular Culture and Medical Spanish.

Students minoring in Spanish Language Studies are encouraged to pursue study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country, a service-learning experience, or an internship program to further their skills. You may transfer in two out of the five required courses from such programs. Summer programs generally offer two courses, which can be counted towards the minor. We offer summer, semester- or year-long abroad programs at the University of Deusto in Bilbao, Spain and many other programs in a variety of countries.

A program is also offered.