Bachelor of Arts in Spanish | St. Ambrose University Apply Now Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Next semester starts 05/18/2026 Apply now Request information What is a Spanish degree? Engage with the richness of Spanish language and culture through St. Ambrose University's Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. Our program offers comprehensive study of Spanish literature, media, politics, pop culture, and film, providing insights into linguistic nuances, current events and cultural expressions. Dive into the vibrant Spanish-speaking world, developing valuable skills for global communication and intercultural understanding Reduce tuition by up to $24k Get the Details Program at a glance On campus classes 120 credits 39 gen ed credits 31 Spanish credits 50 elective credits 1 study abroad course 1 capstone course Reduce tuition by up to $24k Get the Details Why earn a BA in Spanish? In our contemporary and rigorous approach to Spanish language acquisition, you’ll cultivate reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills, through creative and compelling courses. Our program cultivates your critical thinking and gives you a competitive edge in the workforce. Study abroad Talk with native speakers, participate in cultural activities, and deepen your understanding of the language and culture. Become bilingual The majority of your Spanish courses are taught entirely in Spanish ensuring you master the written and oral language. Deepen your learning Multilingual skills are highly valued in education, healthcare, and criminal justice fields. Supportive environment Our faculty, staff, and students create a learning environment, cultivating creativity, innovation, and a sense of community. Spanish Teacher Education Our Spanish Teacher Education program is available for students interested in teaching Spanish at the secondary level. What you’ll learn in your Spanish program In our comprehensive program, you’ll become fluent in Spanish and gain the tools to understand Hispanic culture. Additionally, you’ll cultivate your critical thinking, memory, flexibility, and an awareness of global perspectives. Our program fosters skilled, versatile, and competent graduates highly sought after by employers. Mastery of Spanish grammar Develop and hone Spanish writing skills Understanding of Hispanic linguistics, Hispanic, and Latinx culture Linguistic and cultural immersion through study abroad SAU's Spanish Department shapes futures “I do not think I would be where I am today without the wonderful Spanish Department SAU has. Although small, it is whole in its academic rigor and very unique professors.” -Faith Boyd ’20 BA in Spanish, BS in Exercise Science Start my degree Explore Spanish courses This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits. You will complete 39 gen ed credits, 31 credits in Spanish, 50 elective credits, 1 study abroad course, and 1 capstone course. Explore Spanish courses View all courses Sample courses Class code Class title Credits SPAN 311 Advanced Spanish Grammar 3 credits SPAN 312 Spanish Electives Abroad 3-12 credits SPAN 313 Writing in Spanish 3 credits SPAN 317 Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics 3 credits SPAN 400 Capstone 1 credit How much does a BA in Spanish degree cost? The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance Full-time student living on campus Expense By semester By year Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* $19,674 $39,348 Housing** $4,313 $8,625 Food*** $3,135 $6,270 Technology fee $150 $300 Total direct charges (billable) $27,272 $54,543 *Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer. **This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections. ***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day. How much does campus housing cost? When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose. Explore campus housing St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all of SAU’s accreditations How does SAU support Spanish students? St. Ambrose University’s Spanish faculty are a collective of experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge, diverse perspectives, and an unwavering passion for teaching to the classroom. Their dedication to creating bilingual and bicultural students is the cornerstone of the program's success. Spanish faculty Arturo Meijide Lapido, PhD Brittany Tullis, PhD Maria Kouti, PhD Other support resources Student Success Center At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center. Explore academic support services Accessibility Resource Center Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help. Learn about our resources Career services Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career. Discover career support Are there scholarships available for BA in Spanish? At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially. Foreign Language Scholarship The Spanish department offers two scholarships for students to study overseas. Learn more about the Foreign Language Scholarship Ambrose Advantage Scholarship Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage Merit-Based and Institutional Scholarships St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships Transfer credits At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits Debt-free college "I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid and I'm getting a good education." -Alexis Stovall, Davenport, Iowa Explore Ambrose Advantage What’s on campus for Spanish students? Work with the SAU and Quad Cities Latino communities by joining Latino Unidos . In this club, you’ll help increase awareness about the Latino community and culture. Students also participate in traditional celebrations like Día de los Muertos, Cinco de Mayo, and Hispanic Heritage Month. High-achieving Spanish students can become members of Chi Ph, the SAU Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi , a National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society (Sociedad Nacional Honoraria Hispánica). Faculty involvement boosts success “Getting involved with the faculty really taught me a lot about balance, leadership, and creation. I believe all those skills help me to be the best teacher I can be today.” -Faith Boyd ’20, BA in Spanish, BS in Exercise Science Visit campus What are the general admission requirements for a BA in Spanish? Ready to become a Bee? Here are the admissions requirements for our Spanish program. You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5 You must provide an official high school transcript Apply now International student requirements If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need: Official transcripts from secondary education A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79,  IELTS - 6.0) Copy of your passport and other documentation What can I do with a Spanish degree? Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Spanish program could achieve. Potential job titles Translator International business Tourism Healthcare interpreter Government jobs Cultural liaison Potential employment settings Healthcare Professional services Local government State government Federal government Travel agencies Top traits of a Spanish graduate Bilingualism Critical thinking Adaptability Interpersonal skills Creativity Empathy Industry Facts In the interpreting and translating industries, jobs are projected to be rising at a 4% rate with slightly higher growth than the average industry. Interpreters and translators start off making $25.79 per hour on average, which comes out to around $53,640 per year. For more information on Spanish employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook News and events at SAU From A(mbrose) to (Gen) Z St. Ambrose University is proud to the host International Conference on Faith, Hope, and Renewal in the Catholic Church on April 24–26, 2026. More than a campus: How St. Ambrose shaped a love story It was a rainy Wednesday afternoon, Jaxson Eisenbarth ‘27 walked Ellie Seberger ‘26 to the SAU grotto with a ring box tucked in his pocket. From game day to wedding day: A full-circle St. Ambrose love story When Paige (Fiscella) ‘23 and Yemi Ward ‘23, ‘26 MOL, first met at SAU, neither could have guessed the moment would lead to marriage. View all news and events Become who you are meant to be With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU. Call: 563-333-6000 Request Information Apply Now