Spanish Major

About our program

Develop linguistic proficiencies in one of the world's most widely spoken languages while learning about the rich and diverse cultures of Latin America, Spain and the Hispanic communities in the United States. We have two related majors to choose from — Spanish language and literature, and Spanish for the professions — plus a concentration in introductory Spanish for health care. Depending on which path you choose, you'll master language acquisition skills such as speaking, understanding, reading and writing, and you'll immerse yourself in the culture of the Spanish-speaking world.

You'll also connect to the global community and perfect your Spanish skills in a dual-immersion language exchange: face-to-face online with native speakers in Mexico, South America and Europe. And get involved in Milwaukee's Hispanic community through service learning.

At Marquette, we learn and practice everything we do through the lens of service to others. That means you’ll graduate as a fluent Spanish speaker — and a leader with a deep sense of purpose.

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in Spanish from Marquette?

Most of our graduates go directly into the workforce. Here’s where some of our recent graduates landed.

  • Brindle Consulting 
  • CST Academy 
  • Educational Credential Evaluators 
  • Fernandez, Chadwick and Crouse 
  • Maggie’s Place 
  • Marquette University 
  • St. Anthony School Milwaukee 
  • St. Charles Parish and School 
  • Wisconsin Department of Health Services

collage of a building and faculty member talking to students

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.

 

Professional experience

Explore professional possibilities through our internship office, where you’ll put your Spanish skills to work in the Milwaukee community. And service-learning opportunities will let you make a positive difference while you increase your Spanish proficiency.

Discover Arts and Sciences internship opportunities.

Undergraduate research

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to follow your interests here, like volunteering with a faculty member whose research area intrigues you or completing your own independent study. 

Here are some of the topics our faculty are researching now: 

  • Immigration and American ethnic history 
  • Conflict studies 
  • Expressionism 
  • Museums, mobilities, tourism and leisure studies 
  • Post-colonialism and race theory
Learn more about research in the Languages, Literatures and Cultures Department. 

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the driver of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your Spanish education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for Spanish students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research.

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.