Handbook

The major stream in Spanish and Latin American Studies enables you to study Spanish and Latin American Studies at a number of levels in order to attain proficiency. Courses are offered from the introductory level to the advanced levels. You will not only develop your knowledge of the Spanish language, but also gain intercultural awareness and understanding of the Spanish-speaking world. You will study cultures, communities, societies, history, film and literature in the Spanish-speaking world. The Spanish language plays a key role in expressing the cultures and identities of the places in which it is spoken. Spanish and Latin American Studies will provide you with a privileged form of access to the cultural resources and complex patterns of life in other countries. Developing competence in Spanish will have an important place in promoting relationships and mutual understanding between countries and peoples.

There are two main components of the Spanish and Latin American Studies major. The first is a focus on the acquisition of competence in the Spanish language. Acquiring target language competence involves a wide range of knowledge and understanding as well as skills in self-expression, both oral and written, and skills in comprehending other people's expression, both oral and written. The second component is the study of aspects of the cultures and societies associated with the Spanish language. We draw upon other disciplines in order to inform understanding of Spanish and Latin American cultures. These disciplines include linguistic, literary, cultural, historical, developmental and social productions.

This stream is available to students commencing at Introductory and Intermediate entry levels.

Placement Information

If you have prior language knowledge you will need to take an online placement evaluation so that we can assess your skills and select an appropriate level of course for you. Information about the evaluation and additional course details can be found on the web at: hal.arts.unsw.edu.au

You will not be permitted to enrol in language courses that are too easy for you. If this occurs, you will be requested to change your enrolment.

If you are admitted in your first year of study to ARTS2570 or higher on the grounds of your ability and/or previous study, such courses will be counted as Level 1 courses in terms of your degree requirements.