B.A. in Spanish
Overview
Spanish is one of the world’s most widely spoken languages — second only to Mandarin — and is increasingly prevalent in the United States. Through Biola’s Spanish major, you’ll develop Spanish writing and speaking skills and grow in appreciation for cultures of the Spanish-speaking world, preparing you for successful careers and service in Spanish-speaking contexts.
In addition to its strong curriculum, expert faculty members and biblical integration, Biola’s Spanish program offers several key advantages:
- All Spanish majors are strongly encouraged to take a travel practicum or to participate in study-abroad programs.
- Biola’s location in Southern California offers great opportunities to engage with Spanish-speaking communities and to work or intern in Spanish-speaking churches, schools and businesses.
- Small classes give you an opportunity to form deep relationships with your professors and fellow students.
Concentrations
- Bilingual EducationIn partnership with the School of Education, students will explore the field of eduction in a bilingual context that can lead to the addition of a Bilingual Authorization once a California Teaching Credential is earned.
- Generalist in SpanishKnowledge of the Spanish language is a broadly applicable skill — one made more valuable by cultural understanding. Students seeking career flexibility over specialization will value the well-rounded approach of the Spanish Generalist concentration, which includes language and linguistics, literature, culture, study abroad opportunities and more.
- Global MarketplaceSpanish fluency is an increasingly valuable asset in the world of business. By integrating their Spanish studies with business courses offered through Biola's Crowell School of Business, students develop the skills necessary for working in a multilingual local and global marketplace.
- International RelationsIn this concentration, students interested in entering global or local politics or foreign affairs will sharpen their Spanish speaking while expanding their political science understanding. This highly practical combination equips students to serve diplomatically in any of the over twenty countries where Spanish is commonly spoken or in culturally diverse areas in the United States.
- Ministry Partnership with Biola's Talbot School of Theology empowers students to incorporate their Spanish communication skills into cross-cultural ministry, meeting a great need in light of the growing number of Spanish-speaking people within the United States. This concentration enables students to serve both abroad and right at home.
- Secondary InstructionThe Secondary Instruction concentration is partnered with the School of Education and is designed for students whose goal is to teach Spanish at the high school level. A concentration in Secondary Instruction offers Spanish coursework that, in conjunction with a teacher preparation program.
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Courses
What will I study as a Spanish major?
As a Spanish major, you are invited to immerse yourself into the traditions and experiences of Spanish speaking cultures. Much more than simply learning words, you will converse with peers and fluent Spanish speakers in relevant contextual dialogues and be fully prepared to interact and exist in the communities you learn about. Understanding the nature of the language and a proficiency in conversational and formal usage is the goal for each student. Course learning highlights include:
- Historical and sociological examination of the role of religion in culture
- Producing well structured written texts on wide variety of topics
- Introduction to translation theory and prose documents
- Experiential discussions and field work specific to global business professions
- Exploring Hispanic linguistics through field work and practical application
- Full immersion language experience while living with a host family
Bible and Theology Coursework
As part of Biola’s commitment to a biblically centered education, most undergraduate students complete 30 credits of biblical and theological studies as a part of their degree program. Learn more about our Bible and theology core.
Career Outlook and Preparation
What can you do with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish?
Many career possibilities in fields like education, international affairs, government and ministry await future graduates of Biola's Spanish program. You can expect to impact the world for Jesus Christ in professions such as:
- International relations consultant
- Translator
- Immigration officer
- Foreign media correspondent
- Court interpreter
- FBI agent
- College professor
- Secondary elementary Spanish teacher
- English language support teacher
- Foreign diplomat
Biola graduates from the Spanish major are doing everything from teaching Spanish at schools around the country, to pursuing business opportunities with Latino corporations, to providing nursing care to Latino immigrants in the Santa Ana School District.
We had professors who were mentors and examples for us as educators and also in their daily lives outside of work. Learning and studying at Biola also helps you learn not to compartmentalize your faith and let Christ lead in everything.
The program helped me become more confident in my Spanish, and prepared me with necessary tools to use Spanish in different contexts.
Spanish, B.A. '16
Students will be equipped with the skills to not only speak, read and write Spanish, but will develop a greater understanding of the Hispanic culture and how to fulfill the great commission.
Admissions
Admissions Process
Learn about Biola’s admissions requirements, steps to apply, application deadlines and more at our Undergraduate Admissions page.
Schedule a Visit
Learn more about this program by attending an upcoming event for prospective students and parents, or by scheduling a personalized visit.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Attaining a degree from Biola is more affordable than you might think — dramatically lower than the “sticker price” in most cases — with 100% of incoming undergraduate students receiving some form of financial aid.
Learning Opportunities
Community Spanish Class
In this summer class, students will have the opportunity to be immersed in the Spanish language by engaging in a community-based, experiential learning class. One dimension of the class is that students will engage in Spanish in a classroom setting focusing on the exploration of local varieties of Spanish and Latino culture. Students will also take learning outside of the classroom by living in a Christian host family and participating in excursions and service projects. This is a dynamic learning experience that will help students take their Spanish to a new level.