Spanish Minor

Description. The Spanish minor is designed to make students proficient in spoken and written Spanish through language and literature courses that also present a cultural and psychological understanding of the Spanish diaspora.

An example of this is SPA 212, an intermediate course in grammar and conversation, taught with the use of film and literature in which themes such as immigration, justice, nationalism, gender issues, prejudice, personal relationships and the importance of family are explored and discussed.

Rationale. In today’s global society, it is of paramount importance for students to study foreign languages and cultures. If a student earns a minor in Spanish, one of the five most important languages in the world, they will be better prepared to compete in whatever major field of study they are pursuing at John Jay College. Agencies such as the FBI, CIA, DEA, US Customs Service, and the Immigration and Naturalization Service give preference and a higher salary to those who can communicate in a foreign language. Minoring in a foreign language will assist students in becoming qualified to attain these positions.

Minor coordinator. Professor Maria Julia Rossi, Department of Modern Languages (212.237.8716, mrossi@jjay.cuny.edu)

Requirements. To complete the minor, students must take 18 credits (six courses) in Spanish language, literature and/or translation beginning at the 200-level. At least three 200-level courses, two 300-level courses, and one 400-level course must be taken. Students should consult a minor coordinator for courses that are not available during a particular semester. A maximum of two courses can overlap with a student’s major, other minor or program.

Note: A higher level course can be substituted for a lower level course but not vice versa. For example, SPA 320 can be substituted for SPA 250.

Students have the possibility of receiving 3-6 credits for earning a score of four or better on the Spanish Language and/or Literature Advanced Placement Examination taken in high school. These credits can be applied towards the minor in Spanish.

Total Credit Hours: 18