Hispanic Studies and Languages

RYAN HALLOWS, PH.D.
SERGIO RESTREPO-MESA, PH.D.

Mission and Goals

The Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzín Program in Hispanic Studies and Languages is designed to provide students with the special knowledge, skills, and pedagogy needed to enter graduate or professional schools or to gain employment in their field.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students completing this program will gain:

  • an understanding of the basic knowledge, concepts, and critical theories of the major field: Hispanic literature, linguistic, and culture;
  • the critical thinking skills needed for generating and analyzing both literary and expository texts;
  • an ability to read, speak, and write in Spanish;
  • the writing and speaking skills needed to communicate effectively in a variety of professional settings;
  • an understanding and appreciation of cross-cultural issues.

The Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzín Program in Hispanic Studies and Languages is committed to providing students with the skills needed to communicate clearly in Spanish in both formal and informal settings. While learning and developing language skills, students are introduced to, and expected to think critically about, global issues, social awareness, current events and cultural production (literature, film, art, food, music and theater). Students are immersed in the language and culture and complete the program feeling confident in their ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish. They also gain a broad understanding of Latin American and Spanish history, culture, and contemporary social issues.