Spanish for the Professions
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¿Hablas español? Spanish is the second most common language in the United States and is spoken by millions worldwide. With a major in Spanish for the professions, you’ll gain practical skills that will serve you well throughout your career, opening doors near and far.
Alverno is the first college in Wisconsin to be named a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and is located near Milwaukee’s predominantly Hispanic neighborhoods, making it the perfect place to deepen your knowledge of the Spanish language. You’ll build a strong foundation for professional use of the language, developing the advanced linguistic skills and cultural knowledge necessary to work in our increasingly global community. This program makes an excellent second major, especially if you’re interested in business, health care or global studies.
Students who are native speakers of Spanish, have been raised in a Spanish-speaking home or have had prior Spanish instruction can receive up to 18 credits toward this major by taking a placement test in our Assessment and Outreach Center.
The Alverno difference
Alverno is a welcoming and inclusive community of students from many diverse backgrounds. Our empowering, supportive environment and innovative curriculum — grounded in the 8 Abilities — will help you achieve your best. Not only will you develop fluency in the Spanish language, but you’ll also sharpen your communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Our small class sizes will help you receive the individualized attention and feedback you need to grow.
At Alverno, we embrace interactive learning as well as community service. Through an internship and service-learning opportunities, you’ll practice your professional usage of Spanish and enhance your knowledge of Hispanic cultures. Our Milwaukee location provides convenient access to many interesting opportunities in health care, education, social work, global studies and more.
Looking to connect with other Spanish-speaking students on campus? You can get involved in student organizations such as the Hispanic Nurses of Alverno, the Hispanic Professionals of Greater Milwaukee student chapter, the Global Studies Club, and Youth Empowered in the Struggle (Y.E.S.), a social justice group affiliated with Voces de la Frontera.
“I chose the Spanish for the professions major because I’m passionate about global issues, especially immigration, and about giving back to my community. Alverno has definitely helped me grow my networking skills and has given me confidence in myself.”
— Cassandra
Coursework
All Alverno students must complete 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. You’ll begin courses in your major during freshman year, as well as your general education requirements. You’ll study conversation and composition, Hispanic linguistics, Spanish for the professions, Latin American civilization in Spanish, advanced grammar and composition, and more.
Field education
You’ll gain valuable experience by completing at least one internship. Past graduates have interned at Alverno’s International and Intercultural Center, Voces de la Frontera and Walker’s Point Community Clinic. Alverno’s Career Studio can help you find the right opportunity to advance your goals.
Career opportunities
The demand for bilingual employees continues to grow. Many companies are seeking professionals with a knowledge of Spanish language and Hispanic cultures to connect with Spanish-speaking populations worldwide. This major complements almost any line of work, including social work, marketing, journalism, teaching, real estate and hospitality. Translators/interpreters are in particular demand.
Admission requirements
Your first step is to apply for admission to Alverno by completing the free application at alverno.edu/apply. You should mark your intended major as Spanish for the professions.
For your first two years at Alverno, you’ll be matched with a professional academic advisor who gets to know you and guides you through your education. As a junior, you’ll be paired with a faculty advisor from your major who will support your success to graduation. Your pre-law advisor will serve as an additional resource, sharing law school-related opportunities and supporting you through the law school admission process.
GET IN TOUCH!
Have questions about studying at Alverno? We invite you to connect with our Admissions team to learn more.
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