Bachelor of Modern Languages - Spanish Studies

The University of Western Australia

Spanish is the second most-spoken native language in the world, and UWA is the only university in WA to offer Spanish Studies. Achieve competency in listening, speaking, writing and reading the language. Experience the culture and learn about the lifestyle and achievements of Spaniards both in Spain and in the 20 Spanish-speaking countries around the world.

Studying Spanish is not simply about learning a language – it's an experience that will open your mind to different cultures. Spanish Studies helps you achieve a functional level of competency in listening, speaking, reading and writing the Spanish language, but it is also about studying Spanish literature, films and popular cultures.

Course Structure

UWA offers a full Major in Spanish Studies with 6 language units, 1 cultural unit and 1 literature unit.

This Major is offered as a beginners’ stream only. UWA does not currently offer an intermediate or an advanced stream.

You'll learn to

show competence in the Spanish language in the four macroskills of language acquisition – reading, writing, listening and speaking – rated according to the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR)

interact confidently and successfully in situations involving Spanish cultural conventions

interpret Spanish language texts – written, audio, visual – in the light of Spanish cultures and societies

shift with accuracy and skill between the English and Spanish languages and cultures

Why study this course?

More than 580 million people around the world speak Spanish as a native or second language

Acquire a skill highly regarded by employers as a complement to skills such as engineering and business

Network and enhance your skills through the Conversation Club, student exchange opportunities, and links with cultural organisations such as the Cervantes Institute, the Cine Latino and Spanish Film Festival, and the Embassy

Career Pathways

European language graduates are well qualified for careers in all areas that involve interpersonal and communication skills, especially when dealing with people from a range of cultural backgrounds. These include travel, hospitality, publishing, theatre, commerce, international relations, the diplomatic services, teaching and interpreting and translating. Knowledge of a foreign language has helped graduates secure jobs in international banking, journalism and communications, medical areas, music and the arts. Students majoring in Spanish Studies should also consider furthering their studies by taking a Master of Translation Studies to gain a prestigious professional qualification.

Further Study

This major lays the foundation for further study options at postgraduate level.