When you major in Spanish at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, you’ll explore various aspects of Latin American and Spanish cultures, learning to communicate effectively and developing intercultural competence by recognizing and appreciating the diversity of the Spanish-speaking world. Study abroad in Bilbao, Spain, take classes in Spanish for medicine or law and participate in a conversation exchange program.

The Nebraska Difference

Curiosity

Discover what moves you with a variety of academic disciplines.

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Flexibility & Choice

Customize your degree with course choices. Add a minor or second major.

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Hands-On Experience

Build knowledge, skills and experience in and out of the classroom.

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Limitless Career Paths

Connect your major, interests and goals to any field.

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Program Features

Focus and Range 

Dive deep into your Spanish major while taking a wide variety of courses across all areas in the College of Arts and Sciences. Graduate academically well-rounded and eager to keep learning. Use your collaboration and communication skills to address complex problems and make a positive impact professionally and personally.  

1-to-1 Academic Advising and Career Coaching 

Along with your faculty, professional academic advisors and career coaches will help you make a one-of-a-kind degree plan. We are focused on your success, while at Nebraska and after graduation, whether your goal is employment or graduate/professional school. 

Much More Than Language 

You will join a community of scholars, researchers, instructors, writers, poets, humanists, linguists, social scientists, cultural critics, historians, translators, interpreters and cultural ambassadors.

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Notable Courses

Spanish for Medicine and Healthcare (SPAN 205)

Spanish communication and professional interactions in healthcare and medicine.

Spanish for Law (SPAN 206)

Analysis of real-life situations related to law in Spanish.

Advanced Writing and Reading for Heritage Speakers (SPAN 300A)

A block course of advanced reading and writing for students who grew up speaking Spanish at home in the context of the United States.

Gender and Sexuality in Hispanic Culture (SPAN 315)

Examination of gender and sexuality in the cultures of Spain and Latin America, focusing on women's studies and feminism, masculinities, sexualities and LGBTQ+ issues.

War and Human Rights in Latin America (SPAN 331)

Latin American culture, with a focus on war conflicts and human rights.

Exile and Migration (SPAN 476)

Analysis of exile and migration in Spain and/or Latin America. Memory, political and national ideology, work, gender and sexuality, and the second generation.

Huskers Do Big Things

Internships

  • Office of International Affairs intern, UNL International Affairs Office
  • Nonprofit executive intern, El Centro de las Americas
  • Language assistant intern, Behlen Manufacturing
  • Correspondent, USA Today College
  • The Malone Community Center intern
  • Lincoln Literacy intern

Careers

  • Communications manager, Nebraska Civic Engagement Table
  • Illinois Justice Corp fellow, AmeriCorps
  • Spanish Teacher, Lincoln High School
  • Family Medicine Doctor, Santa Rosa Community Health Center
  • Immigration Legal Assistant, Law Office of Claudia M. García
  • Assistant Director, Center for Advising Resources and Support, Creighton University

Graduate Schools

  • Master’s degree, Educational Leadership, University of Oregon
  • Master’s degree, Nursing, Marquette University
  • Ph.D., Counseling Psychology, University of Kansas
  • Ph.D., Spanish, University of Illinois
  • Juris Doctor degree, Harvard Law School

Outside the Classroom

Depending on your major, interests and goals, you can choose to do research, work as an intern, study abroad, become a leader or serve your community. The university’s Experiential Learning requirement ensures you have at least one of these transformative learning experiences; students in the College of Arts and Sciences typically complete at least two.

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Academics & Experiential Learning

  • Our motto is Academics + Experience = Opportunities. Employers and graduate/professional schools are looking for students who have a strong academic background and hands-on experience.
  • Spanish majors regularly engage in research or internships, and many study abroad or get involved in service or leadership on campus and beyond.
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Career Preparedness

  • CASC 200: Career Development in Arts and Sciences. Explore your interests, abilities and values while identifying career options and preparing to apply for internships, jobs or graduate/professional school.
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Community

  • Join the Spanish Club to connect with faculty, fellow students, alumni and guest speakers.
  • Tutor your peers or learn from them in the Language Lab or participate in the Spanish Conversation Table.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help

If you have questions about the Spanish major or navigating the application process, contact us.

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Contact Name
Nicholas Gordon
Contact Title
Director of Recruitment
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