Hispanic Studies
Spanish is one of the world's major languages, spoken not only in Spain but in many countries, particularly those of Latin America and in the United States. Spanish is also one of the four major languages of the European Union. Hispanic Studies provides students with an informed understanding of the Spanish-speaking world through the study of Spanish language, literature, civilisation, and history. This approach aims to enable students to achieve a high level of communicative competence in Spanish while offering them a critical understanding of history, society, and culture.
Hispanic Studies at UNSW
At UNSW, our language courses are designed to give students a sound basis of spoken and written Spanish. Through the use of video, audio material, digital and online technology, films and modern textbooks, we ensure that students are familiar with the Spanish language as it is spoken in its contemporary cultural context. Spanish is used as the language of instruction in many language and literature courses taught.
Download the Hispanic Studies Information Brochure (PDF) (474 Kb)
Careers
Spanish graduates have pursued careers in a variety of fields, from teaching to public and diplomatic service, journalism and the media, administration, private industry and tourism. Postgraduate programs at Masters and Doctorate levels are also available.
International Opportunities
As one of Australia's most international universities UNSW encourages students to spend a session or two overseas studying at one of our partner institutions as part of your degree. UNSW manages a large and active exchange program with over 180 different student exchange opportunities in 32 countries.
Program Information
Do I need previous Spanish study?
The program caters for students of all levels, including those who have never studied the language before as well as for students of a high level. A flexible entry system also allows students to enrol in the language course that will build on their existing language skills. Students with prior knowledge of Spanish complete an online placement evaluation through the School of International Studies in order to gain entry to the appropriate language course.
Which degrees can I study Spanish in?
Hispanic Studies/Spanish can be studied as a major or minor in the Bachelor of Arts or you can combine it with other areas of study, for example:
- Major within the Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Economics
- Stream within the four-year Bachelor of International Studies
- Minor in the Bachelor of Science
- Elective courses for most degrees
You also have the option to study Spanish within the Diploma of Languages, which may be taken concurrently with another degree program at UNSW. It offers an ideal opportunity to acquire an additional language for professional purposes.
Program coordinator: Associate Professor Diana Palaversich
View Hispanic Studies options in the UNSW Handbook
