Nearly 500 million people around the world are native Spanish speakers — and it’s the second most-spoken language in the United States.

Wherever your career takes you, there’s a good chance proficiency in Spanish will benefit you. The ability to communicate effectively with diverse customers, colleagues, patients, supervisors, and students is incredibly valuable in today’s global marketplace. But studying Spanish is more than speaking another language. It’s also about understanding other perspectives and meeting challenges and people where they are.

The Spanish and Hispanic Studies major at John Carroll University will give you language proficiency and boost your knowledge of Spanish and Latin American cultures.

Cultural Experiences

Immersive service trips. Semester-long study abroad. Experiential learning in the classroom and around the city. At JCU, you’ll have a chance to practice your language skills, experience cultures, and explore cities and landmarks in places like Peru, El Salvador, Honduras, and Madrid.

Student Involvement

One of many cultural student groups at JCU, the Latin American Student Association hosts annual events like the Latinx Heritage Month celebration and the Viva La Noche dance — plus outings and activities throughout the year.

Program Overview & Outcomes

A degree in Spanish and Hispanic Studies from John Carroll will prepare you for careers in today’s diverse and global marketplace. It’s also an ideal second major for students studying business, political science, foreign affairs, or those who are pursuing law and medical school.

Spanish and Hispanic Studies majors will learn to:

  • Communicate skillfully and effectively in Spanish
  • Interpret features of the culture of the Spanish-speaking world (such as art, literature, and customs) in the context of its history, politics, religion, or geography
  • Demonstrate emerging intercultural competence
  • Understand and apply current best practices in teaching world languages (for Teaching Spanish concentration)

Curriculum: What You Will Learn

The Spanish and Hispanic Studies major is incredibly flexible. You’ll take a variety of classes taught in Spanish, covering topics from migrant voices in literature and Hispanic culture through food. You’ll also have a chance to choose relevant electives from other disciplines, such as history and political science.

Your Path Forward Starts Here

Plan your future from day one. Finish faster with accelerated degrees or secure your spot with early assurance partnerships.

4 years

Bachelor of Arts

Explore the Spanish and Hispanic Studies program at JCU, offering comprehensive language and cultural studies that prepare you for diverse global careers.

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Master of Education (MEd) – Primary P-5

Earn your teaching license and master's degree together. Graduate ready to lead your own elementary classroom with advanced credentials.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Combine your JCU bachelor's degree with a master's in business administration in just one additional year.

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Future in Focus

Nine graduate credits count toward both degrees—earning your teaching license and master's while finishing your bachelor's. You pay your undergraduate tuition rate, and your financial aid still applies. Get into the classroom sooner.

Future in Focus

Nine graduate credits count toward both degrees—building executive-level skills while completing your bachelor's. You pay your undergraduate tuition rate with financial aid applied. An MBA for the cost of a few extra courses.

 
JCU's Distinct Promise

Pathways are just the beginning.
Onward makes them happen.

From your first semester forward, Onward connects your goals with the people, experiences, and support that help you build momentum with purpose.

Watch the Story

Quincy's Story

Starting in his first semester at John Carroll, Quincy Unger '26 found a team who helped him shape his ideas, find the right opportunities, and launch his own business.

Discover Onward

Where Our Alumni Go

JCU Spanish and Hispanic Studies majors go on to careers in a wide range of fields including business, education, healthcare, and public service. They also pursue graduate and professional programs in law, medicine, and related fields.

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