About 41 million people speak Spanish in the United States. Worldwide, that number jumps to 595 million. It’s the official language of 21 countries and territories across four continents.
Spanish language skills are certainly handy for social situations and travel. But more importantly, Spanish fluency and cultural understanding are internationally marketable career skills. You can gain both as a Spanish major.
An understanding of Spanish language and culture can open doors to any field. Bilingualism may work to your advantage when seeking advancement and international opportunities. Some employers even pay bilingual employees more—an average of 5% to 20%. Your job doesn’t require Spanish language proficiency? You never know when you may need to speak Spanish with a customer, client, or business associate.
A Spanish degree or certificate will benefit you in a wide range of fields and careers. Below are examples—including some that may surprise you!
Here’s what we’ve learned about Spanish and the career potential for Spanish majors.
The University of Texas Permian Basin wants to expand your job prospects in a big way. Majoring in Spanish can do that! Choose from:
All programs help you:
Explore Spanish at UT Permian Basin and unlock more career opportunities!
Sources:
https://voccent.medium.com/jobs-and-careers-where-spanish-language-skills-are-an-asset-493b956d1096
https://www.nbcuniversal.com/article/telemundo-wraps-2024-leading-spanish-language-media-across-linear-and-digital-platforms
https://corporate.televisaunivision.com/press/2024/07/03/univision-2q2024-ratings/
Spanish is among the most popular global languages and is the most common non-English language spoken in the U.S., with over 41 million residents speaking Español in their home. Native and non-native Spanish speakers have a distinct competitive advantage in their careers, and Spanish-speaking teachers can choose career paths that would be impossible for their…
Considering earning a Master of Arts in Spanish? If so, you may be curious about where that degree can take you. Staying competitive, maximizing your salary, and securing access to a wide variety of professional options are priorities shared by many prospective graduate students, and an MA in Spanish can help you accomplish these goals…
If you haven’t yet begun a career, or are still in the early stages of one, it’s imperative to keep an eye on the horizon for changes and new skills that can turn emerging challenges into opportunities. Often, changes in the working world are connected to technological innovations, e.g., the expanding use of AI across…
Did you know that Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the world? It comes in as a close second only to Mandarin Chinese. In the United States alone, about 42 million people speak Spanish as their first language, and it’s one of very few languages that can help you communicate across multiple continents. It comes to no surprise, then, that a Spanish degree can open doors to a wide range of careers, some of which boast salaries up to $100,000 a year.
Let’s look at some of the diverse career paths and job titles for Spanish degree holders.
If your dream is to teach the next generation, a Spanish degree offers direct entry into the education sector. Language skills are in high demand in K-12 schools, especially as the number of Spanish speakers in the U.S. continues to grow. Teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) to Spanish speakers can be a highly rewarding career that only requires a bachelor’s degree.
Once you’ve earned a master’s degree in Spanish, you’ll be able to teach Spanish language, literature or linguistics at the college or university level. You can also become a bilingual education specialist and contribute to inclusive classrooms.
The mean salary for a foreign language teacher is around $88,000 a year, depending on qualifications and location.
Maybe you’re more of a translator or interpreter and see yourself bridging communication barriers. Translators convert written materials like documents, books, and legal records between Spanish and other languages. Interpreters often work in real-time, so you may find yourself in settings such as courtrooms, hospitals, conferences or government offices where immediate and accurate communication is essential. Salaries vary based on experience and skills, but the mean is about $63,080 a year.
If you’re looking to work in international trade or at a multinational company, there’s a growing need for bilingual professionals who can bridge language barriers and cultural differences. Salaries vary, but a Spanish degree can give you a competitive edge in roles like:
If you’re drawn to public service, there are many opportunities in law enforcement and international relations, with salaries varying based on the role and experience. Some of the roles that often require proficiency in multiple languages are:
Spanish skills are in high demand for the FBI, as officials seek bilingual speakers to help fight crime, human trafficking and fraud.
With many Spanish speakers seeking medical care in the U.S., Spanish-speaking medical professionals are in high demand and ensure accurate communication with non-English-speaking patients. Some of the roles you can pursue in healthcare with a Spanish degree are:
If you plan on working in the medical field, a Certificate in Spanish for First Responders can be a great (and life-changing) addition to your repertoire.
According to UN Tourism, Spain and Mexico offer some of the highest rates of tourism-related occupations globally. If you love travel and culture, this can be a fascinating field to pursue. Companies in international tourism are always in need of multilingual staff to cater to a diverse clientele, with roles like:
Spanish majors with a love for journalism, content creation, or public relations are indispensable for Spanish-speaking audiences. With the growth of bilingual media outlets in the U.S. and Latin America, there are numerous opportunities for Spanish graduates in:
If you know both languages, you can cater to both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking audiences. Salaries vary based on the role and your experience.
The number of new positions requiring bilingualism is projected to grow by 9,000 annually through 2031. Additionally, those who speak two languages or more can earn up to 20% more than their monolingual co-workers. The ability to communicate fluently in Spanish and understand Spanish and Hispanic cultures provides a competitive edge in today’s globalized world.
Did any of these careers pique your interest? UT Permian Basin offers a wide range of Spanish programs to cater to your career goals and aspirations, with the added perk of being 100% online. Choose from:
No matter which career you decide to pursue, UT Permian Basin’s comprehensive and affordable programs can get you where you need to go. With year-round admissions, joining the Falcon Family is flexible and convenient, allowing you to take the next step on your own terms. ¡Nos vemos!
Sources:
https://blog.rosettastone.com/how-many-people-speak-spanish-a-full-breakdown-by-country
https://www.forbes.com/sites/dereknewton/2022/03/30/spanish-speakers-have-more-job-options-german-speakers-make-more-money/
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/field-of-degree/foreign-language/foreign-language-field-of-degree.htm
If you have a passion for learning languages and are fascinated by other cultures, have you considered turning those interests into a career? As a Spanish major at UTPB, you’ll not only dramatically improve your Spanish-speaking abilities but also sharpen other must-have language skills that are highly sought-after in today’s job market.
Join us as we explore some of the most rewarding careers available with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Spanish and discuss some of the language skills employers will be excited to see on your resume.
With a degree in Spanish, you’ll be one step closer to unlocking careers in a diverse range of industries, including education, business and communication. Below, we’re exploring some of the most esteemed careers for Spanish majors to help you decide which might be the best fit for you.
The career options don’t stop there. While some may require additional schooling, there are other impactful roles to consider that might better align with your interests, including:
When asked about the most in-demand language skill for Spanish majors, most people would answer fluency in Spanish—and they wouldn’t be wrong. But that’s not the only skill that employers are looking for.
People who major in Spanish can master several other enviable skills that help their resume stand out. Some of these skills include:
Spanish is the native language for approximately 456 million people worldwide, providing a significant advantage in the workforce for those who are proficient. No matter which career path you choose, The University of Texas Permian Basin is dedicated to providing you with the skills you need to excel in your career.
Whether you’re just starting your career or you’re a seasoned veteran looking to advance in your role, UT Permian Basin has several entirely online programs to help you achieve your goals:
Find the online program that aligns with your goals and apply today!
Sources:
https://www.worlddata.info/languages/spanish.php
When you think of the phrase Romance language, what images does your mind conjure? Do you imagine strolling along the cobblestone streets of Europe? Or perhaps you’re at a quaint café in South America, sipping a rich cup of coffee as you savor the lively chatter of locals speaking Spanish, a language so melodious that you dream of incorporating it into your daily life.
According to UNESCO, there are about 7,000 languages spoken around the world. Out of those thousands, only a handful are considered romance languages, and Spanish is among the most well-known. But what qualifies a language as Romantic—and does it have anything to do with love and passion?
Today, we’re exploring five facts about Spanish as a Romance language, including how mastering Spanish can prove an asset in multiple areas of your life.
Spanish is classified as a Romance language, but what exactly does that entail?
During its expansion westward, the Roman Empire introduced Vulgar Latin to the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Portugal and Spain). Over time, the Latin language intermingled with indigenous languages spoken by local populations on the peninsula, giving rise to the original Spanish dialect, Castilian Spanish.
Therefore, the designation of Spanish as a Romance language is not due to romantic connotations but its association with the Romans and their linguistic legacy on the Iberian Peninsula.
In addition to the Iberian Peninsula, the Romans spread over a vast expanse of Europe in pursuit of cultural and political dominance. This included modern-day regions such as Italy, France, Spain, and Romania. These regions incorporated elements of their native languages with Vulgar Latin, resulting in some of the other frequently spoken Romance language we now recognize as:
Together, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian make up the main five Romance languages spoken around the world, and they have more in common with ‘romance’ than simply their connection to the Romans.
The sound and phonetics of romance languages also contribute to their classification as ‘romantic.’ Certain linguistic characteristics, such as their melodiousness, emphasis on vowels, and patterns of stress and intonation, reflect the soft, musical quality that we often associate with Romance languages.
Learning one Romance language often paves the way for easier acquisition of others. While it’s not a two-for-one deal, mastering one language can significantly enhance your prospects of proficiency in another for a few reasons:
There are several ways that learning Spanish can benefit you in your day-to-day life, including:
At The University of Texas Permian Basin, we understand how beneficial the Spanish language can be in your professional life. That’s why we offer several completely online programs tailored to your professional aspirations, including:
Choose the program that’s right for you, and apply today!
Source:
https://www.worlddata.info/languages/spanish.php
With a staggering 457 million people claiming Spanish as their first language, the Spanish language emerges as a cultural powerhouse that’s influenced the fabric of societies worldwide. Its impact spans from literature to education, influencing diverse and vibrant literary traditions while integrating into academic curricula worldwide.
Today, we delve into the intricate interplay between language, culture, and the shared human experience that defines the profound impact of the Spanish language.
Originating over 700 years ago from traditional spoken Latin, the Spanish language emerged in the Iberian Peninsula, encompassing present-day Spain and Portugal. Its roots can be traced to the Castile region of Spain, leading to its alternate name, Castilian.
As Spanish conquerors and missionaries embarked on global journeys, they carried their language across continents, spreading it to Africa, the Americas, and Asia. Therefore, it’s unsurprising that while the Spanish language maintains a core unity globally, there exists significant social and geographical variation.
Below, we explore how the Spanish language has influenced our everyday world.
Roughly 10% of the world’s countries (21, to be exact) recognize Spanish as their first language. These countries span the globe from Latin America to Europe. While nations like Spain and Chile boast distinct topographies, cuisines, musical preferences, architectural influences, and cultural celebrations, the common thread that binds them together is the Spanish language.
Serving as a unifying force, their shared language enables communication, cultural exchange, and understanding among all Spanish-speaking nations. The connection of a language creates a sense of belonging, strengthening a unique bond that extends past geographical and cultural differences.
The legacy of Spanish literature is vast, with an impact noticeable across the global literary landscape. For example, consider Miguel de Cervantes’ novel “Don Quixote.” Published in the early 17th century, many consider it one of the first modern European novels. Authors of today still draw on the novel’s central character, Don Quixote, who teeters between delusion and reality.
Moving forward to the 20th century, we find the modern musings of Pablo Neruda’s passionate poetry. Neruda was a Chilean Nobel Prize-winning poet, renowned for his verses that explore themes of love, politics, and the human experience, and his works are beloved by people across the world.
As it stands, the Spanish language itself has left a permanent mark on global literature. Many contemporary authors incorporate Spanish phrases, idioms, or cultural references into their works, reflecting the linguistic and cultural diversity inspired by the Spanish-speaking world.
Have you ever caught yourself tapping your foot to the enchanting beats of Latin music? Perhaps you stumbled upon a Spanish-speaking television series and found yourself captivated by the romantic twists and turns on the screen. Whatever the scenario, the Spanish language has left a considerable mark on countless artforms, providing a glimpse into its profound cultural influence.
Below, we discuss examples of how the Spanish language has influenced global media:
Salsa, reggaeton, and flamenco—these vibrant genres provide a glimpse into the rhythmic world that Spanish-speaking communities have popularized globally. Renowned musical artists like Enrique Iglesias and Shakira have played a pivotal role in introducing Latin music to an international audience, weaving a rich cultural narrative into their captivating melodies.
The Spanish equivalent of American soap operas, telenovelas are renowned for their dramatic, romance-inspired storylines. Shows like “Yo Soy Betty La Fea” and “La Reina del Sur” have garnered international acclaim, appealing to both Spanish speakers and non-Spanish speakers alike.
Beyond their entertaining dramatic flair, telenovelas offer a window into the cultural nuances and storytelling styles of Spanish-speaking regions, captivating audiences with a rich blend of drama and cultural exploration.
The influence of the Spanish language goes beyond entertainment and literature; it extends into your professional life. One in three people are expected to speak Spanish in the United States by 2050, and it has become a language widely used in various industries for communication with employees and clients.
Regardless of your current proficiency in Spanish, UTPB offers several online programs specifically designed to meet your professional needs:
Clear communication is critical in crisis scenarios. Our online Certificate in Spanish for First Responders was created to deliver a solid foundation in oral and written medical Spanish. After completing the 9-credit online program, you’ll gain the competency to work effectively with Spanish-speaking individuals in emergency situations.
Whether you’re an aspiring educator, researcher, or scholar, our online Master of Arts in Spanish is meticulously curated for individuals aiming to deepen their knowledge of the Spanish language, literature, culture, linguistics, and language teaching methodology. In today’s diverse job market, proficiency in Spanish has emerged as a highly sought-after skill, enhancing your versatility and value. Whether you aspire to advance within your current career or explore new professional horizons, our program equips you with the expertise needed for success.
Our 12-credit online graduate certificate provides condensed academic training in several aspects of the Spanish language, including its culture, literature, and linguistics. Earning this credential will complement your other degrees by providing new knowledge while improving your Spanish fluency to help you in a variety of careers and work settings.
UTPB offers the only online Bachelor of Arts in Spanish program in the UT System!
Choose the path that’s right for you and apply today to embark on a journey of linguistic and cultural proficiency with UTPB.
Sources:
https://www.worlddata.info/languages/spanish.php
https://www.newsdle.com/blog/brief-history-of-spanish-language
https://www.mondly.com/blog/spanish-speaking-countries/
https://theconversation.com/guide-to-the-classics-don-quixote-the-worlds-first-modern-novel-and-one-of-the-best-94097
https://www.forbes.com/sites/soniathompson/2021/05/27/the-us-has-the-second-largest-population-of-spanish-speakers-how-to-equip-your-brand-to-serve-them/
It’s the fourth most spoken language in the world behind English, Mandarin, and Hindi, according to some sources. Spanish is a diverse language that you might encounter across a wide swath of the globe. But where did it come from? Here we’ll present a brief history lesson on the origins of the Spanish language and explain where you can hone your own Spanish fluency—not just of the language but of the unique contributions of Spanish-speaking cultures.
The Spanish language emerged from the Iberian Peninsula, the section of the European continent occupied by modern day Spain, Portugal, and the southernmost part of France. Like the other Romance languages—so named not because of their “romantic” qualities but rather their connection to Rome—Spanish had its foundations in Vulgar Latin, a spoken form of Latin used by common people, as opposed to Classical Latin, the more formal version of the language seen in the works of writers such as Virgil, Ovid, and Cicero. The modern form of Spanish can be traced to the northern coastal region of Spain in the ninth century.
In the centuries after the modern Spanish language developed, it spread to the Americas and elsewhere through exploration, colonization, immigration, and religious missions. It continued to develop into different dialects, with Castilian being the variety most spoken today. Spanish is now spoken in at least 20 countries on four continents, here listed by largest number of speakers to smallest:
As of 2023, the world is home to an estimated 360 million Spanish speakers, with more than a third of native speakers living in Mexico and only about 12% living in Spain.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online graduate-level course dedicated to the history of the Spanish language. If you’re keen to learn more, History of the Spanish Language (SPAN 6321) was designed with you in mind. While we’ve provided a condensed history of the language, this 3-credit, eight-week course offers a fascinating, detailed look at the evolution of the Spanish language from its Latin roots to its present-day form through an examination of literary texts.
Spanish fluency can help you qualify for a wide variety of roles, and the international reach of the language brings with it the potential for employment in many countries around the world. Through an exploration of culture, literature, linguistics, and teaching language methodology, UT Permian Basin’s graduate Spanish programs help you develop the linguistic proficiency to achieve your professional and personal goals. You can access these programs from anywhere, 24/7, and complete them according to your own schedule.
Online Master of Arts in Spanish
Taught entirely in Spanish, this 30-credit program prepares you for doctoral studies, if you choose that route, and confers a degree that will enable you to compete for advancement. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that master’s degree holders enjoy 16% higher median earnings than those who have a bachelor’s degree alone.
See salary and job projections for this program.
Online Bachelor of Arts in Spanish
UTPB offers the only online Bachelor of Arts in Spanish program in the UT System!
See salary and job projections for this program.
Online Graduate Certificate in Spanish
Not looking for a master’s degree? This 12-credit program is the perfect way to quickly improve your Spanish fluency and add a new credential to your resume.
See salary and job projections for this program.
We also have an undergraduate certificate specifically for first responders who want to improve their communication skills for use in emergency situations. Learn more.
“Spanish” has many meanings: It’s a language with many dialects. It’s a variety of rich cultures. It’s a nationality. Discover the broader story and see what a mastery of the language can mean for your future.
Get full program details and apply today!
Sources:
https://www.berlitz.com/blog/most-spoken-languages-world
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Spanish-language
https://www.worldatlas.com/peninsulas/iberian-peninsula.html
https://www.thoughtco.com/why-late-latin-was-called-vulgar-119475
https://www.statista.com/statistics/991020/number-native-spanish-speakers-country-worldwide
If you haven’t yet begun a career, or are still in the early stages of one, it’s imperative to keep an eye on the horizon for changes and new skills that can turn emerging challenges into opportunities. Often, changes in the working world are connected to technological innovations, e.g., the expanding use of AI across job sectors. Sometimes, the need for new skills accompanies a demographic shift. Here we’ll discuss the United States’ growing population of Spanish speakers and how you can capitalize on this shift professionally with the necessary skills and credentials.
The United States Census Bureau reports that Spanish is currently spoken in American homes by nearly 42 million people. Some estimates show that one third of Americans will speak Spanish by 2050. What will your career look like at that time? Do you possess the skills to remain competitive and employed in an evolving linguistic landscape? Your high school Spanish background might help you, but is it enough?
Let’s review a few of the professional advantages you may enjoy upon mastering the Spanish language:
If you’re fluent in Spanish, you can edge out other job candidates when applying to companies and government entities that prefer employees who are bilingual or who speak Spanish specifically.
Bilingual employees in the median pay range earn about $8,738 more per year, according to glassdoor.com.
Language mastery positions you to work in a variety of fields and roles:
The statistics for Spanish speakers we discussed above are specific to the United States, but there are 20 countries for which Spanish is the official language. If you plan to seek job opportunities outside the U.S., being fluent in a language spoken by half a billion people on our planet can only help.
Equipped with Spanish proficiency, you’ll be able to interact smoothly with a larger number of colleagues, clients, and customers. This benefit can also translate to your personal life and everyday interactions outside the workplace.
The University of Texas Permian Basin—named among Newsweek’s “America’s Top Online Colleges 2023”—offers online degree and certificate programs that can put speaking Spanish among your strongest professional skills:
Online Master of Arts in Spanish (30 credits)
Build your fluency in both the Spanish language and Spanish culture in a graduate degree program that does not require GRE scores or a thesis. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows master’s degree holders have about 18% higher median earnings and higher employment rates than those with a bachelor’s degree alone.
Online Graduate Certificate in Spanish (12 credits)
If you’re not looking for a master’s degree program right now but want to bolster your understanding of Spanish and related cultures, this program was designed for you. Complete our Spanish graduate certificate and add a graduate credential to your resume in as little as three semesters.
Online Undergraduate Certificate in Spanish for First Responders (9 credits)
As a paramedic or EMT, your ability to speak Spanish can literally make the difference between life and death for someone experiencing a health crisis. Make sure you have this critical skill! Learn medical terminology and participate in simulated interactions with patients while you complete this program in as little as two semesters.
UTPB also offers the only online Bachelor of Arts in Spanish program in the UT System!
Regardless of which UTPB Spanish program you choose, you can complete your studies online from practically any location worldwide—no campus visits are required. You don’t have to live in Texas or the United States—or even be a U.S. citizen. Our flexible asynchronous learning format enables you to continue meeting professional and personal commitments while you earn a respected education credential at your own pace!
Empower yourself with career-transforming Spanish fluency. Contact us today for program information.
Spanish is among the most popular global languages and is the most common non-English language spoken in the U.S., with over 41 million residents speaking Español in their home. Native and non-native Spanish speakers have a distinct competitive advantage in their careers, and Spanish-speaking teachers can choose career paths that would be impossible for their monolingual colleagues to pursue.
As we explore these pathways, offering you a glimpse into your potential future in education, try to keep in mind that your foreign language skills can support Spanish and English learners alike. The most rewarding teaching position may be one where you help all students, regardless of their native language, learn two languages at once.
Pivoting to a career teaching Spanish to primary or secondary school students is perhaps the most obvious use of your talents. To become a certified Spanish teacher in Texas, you’ll need to complete a Texas-approved educator preparation program (EPP), specifically a languages other than English (Spanish) program. Classroom teachers in Texas will recognize the certification process. Once you’ve completed the EPP and applied for and passed your certification exam, you’ll have to submit a state application to the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Then it’s only a matter of applying to teaching positions.
Nobody likes being put in a box, so don’t think you’re obliged to teach Spanish just because you’re fluent in the language. It’s worth noting, however, that this career path will leave you with few other options unless you plan on earning a doctoral degree or becoming fluent in another language. (21% of high school foreign language classes focus on French.) Before long, your career will have once again plateaued. Fortunately, there’s another path you could take: one that would let you devote your language skills where they’d be needed and appreciated most. We’re of course talking about bilingual education.
To become a bilingual educator in Texas, you’ll have to complete a Texas-approved bilingual program and pass the appropriate certification exams, including the Texas Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test (BTLPT). These prerequisites may seem similar, identical even, to those required of Spanish teachers, but they offer a unique opportunity for career advancement. By joining an EPP at a prestigious college, you’ll have the opportunity to earn your graduate credential and work toward becoming a dual-certified educator.
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Master of Arts in Bilingual Education program will help you meet some of the TEA’s certification requirements, thereby helping ensure your success when it comes time to apply for bilingual certification. As a graduate student, you’ll explore theories of language acquisition, challenges encountered in bilingual and English as a second language (ESL) education, and methods for teaching school subjects in Spanish. Upon graduating, you’ll be prepared to work closely with native English speakers and English language learners (ELL) and, let’s not forget, that much closer to passing the BTLPT and earning your dual certification
A bilingual classroom is like any other that teaches science, math, reading, and other traditional subjects. The difference is that these subjects are taught to ELLs in both English and their native language. Dual-language classrooms take this idea a step further by having ELLs taught alongside native English speakers in the hopes that all students will achieve functional bilingualism and biliteracy.
Critics of bilingual education question how ELLs can learn English when so much of their school day is devoted to studying Spanish. “[O]ur data shows that proficiency in literacy in the child’s first language is a very good indicator of how well that child is going to eventually learn English,” said JoAnne Negrin, supervisor of bilingual education for Vineland Public Schools. ELLs taught in a bilingual setting retain and build upon their language skills and are shown to have improved outcomes in the areas of reading, empathy, and school performance, among others.
Bilingual educators help students regardless of their native language, background, or culture, which explains why they’re in such high demand. Over 30 states have reported a shortage of bilingual, dual-language, and English as a second language (ESL) teachers.
The need for bilingual teachers is so great, in fact, that federal funding may cover some or all of the cost of their education. For example, graduate students in our online MA in bilingual education program may be eligible to receive a Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant of up to $4,000 per year. Texas school districts are also known to offer signing bonuses and additional incentives to teachers, especially those who are bilingual. Considering that bilingual educators in Texas make nearly $60,000 per year on average, there’s no better time to pursue this career.
Spanish language skills, while appreciated in traditional language education, are treasured in bilingual education. Now is the time to leverage your strengths and follow a career path that will reward you for your proficient bilingualism and devotion to teaching, and you can do so by earning a master’s degree from UT Permian Basin.
UT Permian Basin’s online MA in bilingual education program was designed with the busy schedule of educators in mind. Online courses will give you the flexibility needed to complete coursework on your schedule, while our practicum course will provide the real-world experience you needed to transition smoothly into a career teaching in bilingual settings. The cross-cultural communication skills imparted by our program are also transferable to careers outside of education that promote diversity and cultural competence, enabling you to pursue new opportunities if you so choose. There’s no telling how far a master’s degree will take you.
Become a pillar of support for English- and Spanish-speaking students. Apply to our online MA in bilingual education program to earn a graduate credential that will help you reach a broader range of students and secure your future in the field of education.
Sources:
https://www.cnn.com/2013/09/20/us/hispanics-in-the-u-s-/index.html
https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/the-invisible-burden-some-bilingual-teachers-face/2020/02
https://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2016/11/29/497943749/6-potential-brain-benefits-of-bilingual-education
https://tea.texas.gov/texas-educators/certification/initial-certification/becoming-a-classroom-teacher-in-texas
https://www.fox4news.com/news/fort-worth-isd-offering-hiring-bonuses-up-to-69k-for-first-time-teachers
Spanish culture—enthralling bullfights, trancelike flamenco dancing, and picaresque novels—is heavily influenced by history. Similarly, Latin American culture—relatable telenovelas, percussion-based salsa music, and spirited football (soccer) games—would not be what it is today were it not for the triumphs celebrated and hardships endured by past generations.
To truly appreciate these cultures, we need to look at the historic events that shaped life in Spain and Latin America. Let’s explore these events and the incredible works of music, film, and literature they inspired. You may very well gain a new perspective on your relationship with Spanish culture.
The Spanish Civil War has been called “the opening act of World War II.” Historians cite the Spanish general election held on June 28, 1931, which resulted in the creation of a democratic government and the exile of Spanish King Alfonso XIII, as a catalyst for the conflict. Liberal parties were elected into power in 1936, much to the chagrin of Francisco Franco. He and a large group of army officers rose up in revolt to restore the Spain of old.
Following two and a half years of conflict and millions of lives lost, Franco and nationalist forces won the war on March 28, 1939. Franco ruled over Spain as a dictator for almost 40 years, controlling the population through tribalism and terror. Franco and his dictatorship died in 1975, but the impact of his regime can still be felt today, and Spanish culture is influenced by a collective desire to never allow another dictator to take power.
Spain’s painful, necessary metamorphosis from dictatorship to a republic is expressed effortlessly in Guillermo del Toro’s 2006 film “Pan’s Labyrinth.” This dark fairy tale follows Ofelia, a young girl who meets a mythical, mysterious faun who promises to whisk her away from her fascist oppressors. All Ofelia must do, she is assured by her new friend, is journey through a labyrinth. “[A] labyrinth is essentially a place of transit, an ethical, moral transit to one inevitable centre,” explained del Toro. “You think of the transit of Spanish society from the 1940s to the incredible explosion of the post-Franco period. The 1980s in Spain were like the 1960s in the rest of the world!”
Pan’s Labyrinth is one of several films covered in Novelists of Post-War Spain, an online course offered in The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Master of Arts in Spanish program. This course explores the social and literary development in Spain after the Spanish Civil War, with an emphasis placed on novels and films from the 1940s onward.
Looking at the Plaza de Mayo, a swatch of greenery and red bricks at the heart of Buenos Aires, you wouldn’t think that so many of Argentina’s most significant historic events took place there, but they did. This trend continues to this very day. Each and every Thursday, the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo gather here wearing white scarves and brandishing signs with the names of their kidnapped children.
As part of a series of political coups—backed by the United States—the Argentine military overthrew the government of Isabel Perón, the world’s first female president, in 1976. The military dictatorship, or junta, waged what came to be known as the “Dirty War,” not against an outside force but against the Argentinian people. Dubbed “terrorists,” left-wing activists were kidnapped and killed by the thousands and came to be known as “the missing” or desaparecidos. Among the desaparecidos were pregnant women, whose children were delivered to orphanages, sold on the black market, or given to families in favor of the regime.
The junta relinquished power by agreeing to democratic elections in 1983. However, its Dirty War has forever changed the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo, who continue searching for the 30,000 desaparecidos.
20th Century Spanish American Prose is a course offered in our online MA in Spanish program that delves into the complex relationship between Latin American countries and their dictators through the analysis of novels, songs, and films. Through this course, students gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to overcome the trauma caused by violence and oppression.
“Kiss of the Spider Woman,” written by Molina Puig in 1976, is one such novel, taking students on a trip through the minds of two Argentinian prisoners. Valentin is a political prisoner and revolutionary, while Molina is a gay window dresser. Lacking a traditional narrator, Kiss of the Spider Woman employs dialogue and stream of consciousness to depict the unlikely bond that forms between these prisoners.
Musician Rubén Blades’s song “Desapariciones” is yet another work that focuses on the disappearances that took place throughout Latin America in the 1970s and 1980s, and it does so head-on. Blades sings of wives, siblings, and parents in search of lost family members, injecting minute details of their lives to drive home that real people were snatched from their homes. “Where do the disappeared go,” sings Blades in the English translation. “Look in the water and in the bushes. And why is it that they disappear? Because we’re not all the same.”
Out of the hardships endured by Spain and Latin American countries was born a proud, vibrant culture that endures. Gaining a deeper understanding of this culture is essential for anyone wishing to work closely with Spanish-speaking communities. However, to succeed in graduate school and beyond, aspiring professionals must also learn how to look at language and literature through the lens of Spanish culture, and they can do so by pursuing an online MA in Spanish.
UT Permian Basin’s online MA in Spanish provides a comprehensive overview of Spanish language, literature, and culture. Throughout our program, you’ll explore Spanish teaching methodology and learn how to apply the methodological approaches to the linguistic analysis of Spanish literature, preparing you for challenges and opportunities encountered in graduate school and related professions, such as translator or ESL/bilingual teacher. Courses are entirely online and taught exclusively in Spanish, and you’ll be joined (virtually) by fellow graduate students who share your passion for Spanish linguistics. Upon graduating, you’ll be awarded a prestigious degree and have gained a specialized skill set that’ll prove invaluable in your career.
There’s an entire world to be discovered. Apply to our online MA in Spanish program to gain a new cultural perspective, expertise, and specialized knowledge that will help open the door to new opportunities in your career. Haven’t yet completed a bachelor’s degree? Consider our online Bachelor of Arts in Spanish—the only online program of its kind in the UT System!
Sources:
https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-culture-of-spain.html
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34844939
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Kiss-of-the-Spider-Woman-novel
https://songlations.livejournal.com/32032.html
To do your job as a first responder effectively, you need to be able to communicate with the people you’re trying to help, or with someone who can communicate on their behalf. But what if the patient or their loved ones speak only Spanish, and you don’t know the language? From Texas to Illinois and from New York to California, the numbers of Spanish-speaking people are steadily increasing. Those four states, in addition to Florida and New Jersey, have some of the highest populations of Spanish speakers in the United States. However, they are just part of a larger trend throughout the country. Consider these facts:
What does all this mean to you as a paramedic or EMT? Risk or opportunity, depending on your level of Spanish proficiency. Considering that the Spanish language will continue to proliferate in the country, knowing English alone isn’t enough. The inability to converse in a second language can make a critical difference in providing appropriate care with certainty, which means it will become as important a job skill as knowing how to perform CPR.
Let’s put that risk into real numbers.
Risk: Contributing to a Staggering Statistic
Are you willing to accept the risk that you may not be able to understand 8% of your patients? Data attributed to the U.S. Census Bureau reports that nearly 25 million Americans—approximately 330 million people—have limited English proficiency. According to data from The Joint Commission, communication errors are a primary factor in almost 60% of problematic incidents that occur within healthcare facilities. It’s easy to see how language barriers can lead to tragedy in an emergency situation. Would you minimize the risk if you could by learning a second language?
Opportunity: Becoming More Valuable to Patients and Employers
Having the ability to communicate with a greater number of patients has many benefits for you and all parties involved:
A Spanish Program Created Specifically for First Responders
The University of Texas Permian Basin is helping to answer the growing need for Spanish-speaking emergency service providers with our online Certificate in Spanish for First Responders. Created to help healthcare professionals better serve the growing Spanish-speaking population, our 9-credit program provides instruction in translating the medical terminology you use every day into Spanish, enabling you to ask questions and explain to Spanish speakers what type of treatment you’re providing. You’ll build your proficiency in Spanish through virtual conversations that mirror real-life exchanges between Spanish-speaking patients and emergency personnel.
This certificate is made up of three online courses led by the same renowned professors who teach Spanish courses at the UT Permian Basin campus. These acknowledged authorities will instruct you not just on the Spanish language, but on contextual topics that will help you better understand your patients. Under their guidance, you’ll explore Spanish from multiple perspectives, including:
Our Certificate in Spanish for First Responders is available to you as a stand-alone online program or can be added to an existing degree program, should you wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree from UT Permian Basin.
Learning Online Means Learning on Your Schedule
Your job and family commitments are very important to you, but you needn’t neglect them to learn new career-enhancing skills. Our Certificate in Spanish for First Responders program is delivered in a 100% online asynchronous format that allows you to choose both the time and place to complete your coursework. On a break from work, after you put the kids to bed, on weekends—if the time is good for you and you have internet access, our program is ready and waiting. This unmatched flexibility makes earning an important professional credential incredibly convenient.
You’re only three courses away from being able to offer more effective care for an increasing number of patients. Apply to our online Certificate in Spanish for First Responders program now and make an even bigger difference in their lives!
Sources:
https://datacommons.org/place/country/USA?utm_medium=explore&mprop=count&popt=Person&hl=en
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7201401/
https://journals.lww.com/nursingmanagement/fulltext/2018/04000/strategies_for_overcoming_language_barriers_in.7.aspx
https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/overcoming-language-barriers-in-healthcare/89359/
https://oig.hhs.gov/oei/reports/oei-06-07-00470.pdf