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Spanish Essentials Certificate

As a Grand View student pursuing a Spanish Essentials certificate, you’ll learn to communicate effectively in Spanish both orally and in writing. You’ll master the practical applications such as grammar, punctuation, mechanics and usage for your chosen concentration, whether that’s business, health care or criminal justice. You’ll also analyze and interpret a range of Hispanic literature, and through travel opportunities and involvement in the community, you’ll develop an understanding of Hispanic culture within and outside the borders of the United States.

Why Grand View?

  • Learn essential skills in a short time period
  • Cultural training in specific work related areas
  • Improve communication skills, both in oral and written forms
  • Options in Spanish for business, law enforcement, and health care

Student Testimonials

Dr. Sarah Miller Boelts

“Professor Sarah is my Spanish teacher. Spanish is my third language that I am learning, but professor Sarah has made the class convenient for me. She is always looking for an opportunity to teach the students in a way that students learn easy. I have learned so much over these 2 months than I ever have in my entire course. I have confidence when I am speaking Spanish, as well as writing. She is very polite and understands me so much, which makes me glad that I belong to Grand View. She always gives good feedback that I have always scored well every time I do a lab writing or a exam. Professor Sarah has all the qualities a PhD degree holder should have.”

- Sumitra Basnet

Opportunities

"My Spanish classes were the most fun and informative classes I took at GV, and they were a relaxing, low stress environment to learn another language. It was very easy to get a double major with the Spanish program, and having a background in Spanish will only benefit you in future employment. There are also great study abroad options through the University that are the opportunity of a lifetime, and the professors in the program truly care about your success both inside and outside the classroom." - Kate

"The Department of Modern Languages is very competent and they not only taught me Spanish but also helped me understand the culture behind the language. The program is well thought-out to involve students in activities and events in the DSM community where they can practice their Spanish that leads to good experiences and connections. Once you are out of college you don’t only speak Spanish, but you also have professional connections in the community who speak Spanish and this has helped me to get to know other people and expand my network." - Miguel

"GV students, first and foremost, could not ask for more supportive teachers/mentors than who they will find in the Modern Languages Department at GV. It will beautifully compliment any primary major and make them even more marketable in the workforce." - Rachel

Career Options

  • Education
  • International business or non-profit
  • Social services
  • Law
  • Diplomacy
  • Tourism
  • Arts and culture organizations

Program Details

This program provides students with essential skills in a short time period to work with the growing Hispanic population. This certificate provides cultural background as well as training in specific work related areas.

Course Requirements (17 credits)

Required Courses:

SPAN 101* Spanish I 4 credits
SPAN 102 Spanish II 4 credits

*Students who have taken at least 3 years of high school Spanish may enroll in Spanish II. If they earn a grade of “C-” or higher, they will receive credit for Spanish I. The processing fee of $30 needs to be paid to receive the credit.

Take 9 credits from:

SPAN 107 Spanish for Health Care 3 credits
SPAN 108 Spanish for the Professions 3 credits
SPAN 204 Self-Expression in Spanish
3 credits
SPAN 312 Hispanic Culture and Civilization 3 credits
SPAN 323 Advanced Spanish Grammar and Composition 3 credits
Degree Fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
  • Enjoy broadening your horizons while developing specific linguistic and cultural skills
  • Like to immerse yourself in courses in conversation, grammar, reading and comprehension of another langauge
  • Quickly pick up on other languages and are able to fluently speak, read and write other languages

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Tuition & Scholarships

At Grand View University, your tuition supports instruction delivered by knowledgeable and experienced faculty who uphold our tradition of exceptional teaching. Additionally, we are dedicated to offering a high-quality education at the most affordable cost.

Transfer Credits

No matter what major you’re thinking about, you may be able to transfer in as many as 75 credits from a community college or junior college. If you have an A.A. or A.A.S. from an Iowa community college, you will be automatically admitted at junior status.

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