The Hispanic Studies minor takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the Spanish language and the multiple contexts in which it is spoken in North and South America. The development of skills in writing, reading, speaking and comprehension of Spanish takes place alongside the study of history, sociology, literature, film and women’s and gender studies.
Students read modern literary texts from Latin America and Spain, including short stories, poems and essays and write a series of short critical papers in Spanish. Readings will include classic historical essays, political and cultural reflections and manifestos, short fiction and poetry. In addition to learning about Latin America and Spain from a variety of different disciplinary perspectives, students become comfortable reading Spanish prose and continue to improve their writing and speaking skills in Spanish. Class consists of discussion, group work and the occasional lecture.
¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ is officially designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution with a vibrant multicultural student community. Our program’s low student/faculty ratio gives students close working relationships with faculty, fostering individualized career planning and professional development. Opportunities to gain real-world experience and build one’s professional portfolio in the program abound, from participation in the annual Lit and Luz Festival to opportunities to cultivate peer mentoring skills in the Writing Center.
Virtually any career prospect can be enhanced by a deep knowledge of Spanish language and culture. The Spanish-speaking population is currently the fastest-growing population in the Chicago area. The Hispanic Studies minor is an excellent complement to majors ranging from education to psychology, history to women's and gender studies.