What is a Spanish major? Courses, careers, and requirements

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Key takeaways about a Spanish major

A Spanish major focuses on language, literature, and culture across Spanish-speaking countries.
It’s different from Latin American studies, which is more interdisciplinary.
You’ll gain skills in communication, cultural fluency, and critical thinking.
Spanish majors often pair well with business, education, or health-related fields.
Career paths include translation, international relations, education, and more.

So, what is a Spanish major?

A Spanish major is more than just learning to speak the language. It’s a deep dive into the cultures, histories, and literatures of Spanish-speaking countries. You’ll study everything from grammar and conversation to poetry, film, and politics. It’s perfect for students who love language and want to connect with people across borders.

Spanish major vs. Latin American studies: what’s the difference?

If you're torn between these two, here's the breakdown:

Spanish major = language + literature + culture
Latin American studies = history + politics + sociology + some language

Spanish majors focus more on mastering the language and exploring cultural expression. Latin American studies is broader and more interdisciplinary. If you’re into activism, policy, or international development, Latin American studies might be your vibe. If you love language and storytelling, Spanish is probably the better fit.

Types of Spanish degrees

Depending on the school, you might choose between:

Bachelor of Arts (BA) – more humanities-focused
Bachelor of Science (BS) – sometimes includes more technical or applied coursework
Minor in Spanish – great for pairing with another major

Some schools also offer concentrations like Spanish linguistics, translation, or Hispanic literature.

Core courses for Spanish majors

Here’s a taste of what you’ll study:

Intermediate and advanced Spanish grammar
Spanish and Latin American literature
Spanish conversation and composition
Hispanic culture and civilization
Spanish linguistics or phonetics
Electives in film, poetry, or translation

Common double majors or minors to pair with Spanish

Spanish pairs well with a ton of other fields. Popular combos include:

Business – for international careers
Education – especially if you want to teach
Political science – for diplomacy or government work
Public health – to serve diverse communities
Psychology or sociology – for deeper cultural understanding

Study abroad opportunities for Spanish majors

Studying abroad is a game-changer. Many programs offer immersive experiences in Spain, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, or Costa Rica. You’ll live the language, build confidence, and earn credits toward your degree. Some schools even require a semester abroad for Spanish majors.

If you're thinking about going abroad, check out these study abroad tips to help you plan smart and make the most of your experience.

Skills I'll gain as a Spanish major

You’ll walk away with:

Fluency in Spanish – obviously
Cultural competence – understanding diverse perspectives
Communication skills – both written and verbal
Critical thinking – analyzing texts and ideas
Adaptability – navigating new environments and cultures

Top careers for Spanish majors

Wondering what you can do with a Spanish major? Here are some options:

Translator or interpreter
Foreign service officer
International business consultant
ESL or Spanish teacher
Travel and tourism professional
Journalist or content creator
Healthcare worker in bilingual settings
Nonprofit or NGO staffer

How much will I earn with a Spanish degree?

Your salary as a Spanish major depends a lot on what you do after graduation. The good news? You’ve got options.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for interpreters and translators is about $59,440 per year. If you go into teaching, elementary and secondary school teachers—two of the most common roles for Spanish majors—earn between $45,000 and $70,000 depending on location and experience.

Other career paths like international business, nonprofit work, or government roles can vary widely, but bilingual professionals often have a competitive edge in salary negotiations.

Bottom line: Spanish majors don’t just earn money—they open doors to careers that are global, meaningful, and flexible.

Notable schools for Spanish majors

Some top schools with strong Spanish programs include:

Use Scout College Search to find schools that match your goals.

Scholarships for Spanish majors

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but there are plenty of scholarships out there specifically for Spanish majors. Whether you're just starting your search or already applying, Sallie has resources to help. You can explore scholarships by major, check out Scholly Scholarships for curated opportunities, or apply for the easy $2K No Essay Scholarship. And if you're looking for awards tailored to Spanish studies, don't miss the scholarships for Spanish majors page.