Spanish Teaching Major
Study Spanish teaching at UNI – the state’s leader in teacher preparation
Spanish Teaching majors develop a solid foundation in the Spanish language through studies in literature, linguistics, and teaching methods.
Coursework includes classes in language, linguistics, translation, culture, and foreign language teaching methods as well as Chicano and Latino, Spanish American and Spanish literature and film.
Most Spanish Teaching majors study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country and are part of a vibrant pre-service teaching community.
With excellent faculty, three different field experiences, and a full semester of student teaching, graduates are well prepared to lead their own classrooms.
Find out more about Spanish Teaching major classes and program requirements.
in Iowa
UNI’s Department of Languages & Literatures graduates more language arts teachers than any other university in the state.
Top Ranked
UNI is home to a top ranked teacher preparation program, known around the Midwest for excellence. Students gain 750 hours of classroom experience before graduation.
Endorsements
Convenient for students to complete endorsements in other disciplines to be more marketable to school districts.
Learn more about Spanish Teaching
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Contact us directly at:
Department of Languages and Literatures
1001 Bartlett Hall
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614-0506
langlit@uni.edu
Phone: 319.273.2821
Fax: 319.273.5807
Spanish placement exam
All students considering taking Spanish at UNI should take the Spanish placement exam. This exam will help you choose the appropriate first Spanish course at UNI. Please note: Heritage Speakers should first consult with Professor Juan Carlos Castillo (juan.castillo@uni.edu) before taking the placement exam. There is a fee of $10 for the exam.
Spanish for Heritage Speakers – gain credits, save money
If you grew up in a home where Spanish is spoken, should you still study Spanish? At UNI, the answer is yes! The Department of Languages & Literatures allows heritage speakers of Spanish to earn credit based on their previous language experiences that can be applied to UNI language requirements or toward a major or minor in Spanish.
Students who successfully pass Spanish for Heritage Speakers are eligible to automatically earn up to 18 Spanish credits, including:
- Satisfaction of the foreign language exit requirement
- 12 credits towards a Spanish minor or Spanish teaching minor
- 9 credits towards a Spanish major
- 9 credits towards a Spanish teaching major
Many heritage learners go on to take more advanced courses in literature, cultural studies, translation, and linguistics in Spanish. They also participate in study abroad programs and internships where they apply their Spanish language skills out in the world. These students know that developing academic and professional skills in Spanish will complement their professional advancement in almost any field.
Resources for Spanish Heritage Speakers
Study Abroad
Spanish majors are expected to study abroad during their time at UNI. We offer opportunities to study in Spain, Peru and Costa Rica, from two weeks to semester-long, in faculty-led programs as well as studying at local universities with family stay.
Learn more about the Spanish program at the University of Northern Iowa
Careers
This major enables students to gain a wide-variety of teaching experience by offering courses in communication, literary theory and film. Common career areas for graduates of this major include:
- Teaching and student affairs
- health services
- translation and interpretation
- public relations
- law enforcement
- Business
- social services
- journalism
Courses
Practicum in Teaching Spanish
Participants acquire knowledge of foreign language methodologies through practical applications, including lesson planning, class observations, materials development, and technology integration. Required for students in second language acquisition and foreign-language teacher education programs.
Hispanic Culture and Literature
Investigation into Hispanic cultures and civilizations as a product of their history and current environment.
Teaching Spanish in the Elementary School
Foreign language teaching methodology for K-8, language development, instructional strategies for the elementary level, elementary foreign language classroom management and design for instruction. Field experience and class sessions.
Languages and Literatures Features
Final Thursday Reading Series featuring Gail Lynn
Thu, Jan 30 2025
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Hearst Center for the Arts, 304 West Seerley Blvd., Cedar Falls