The Spanish and Portuguese romance languages and literatures dominate the Iberian Peninsula, major parts of Africa, and the southern portion of the new world from Mexico to the Magellan Straits. These languages, spoken by over 450 million people in over twenty-nine countries, provide a wide spectrum of culture, linguistics, and literature. Spanish represents a vibrant literature that stands at the forefront of twentieth-century excellence and innovation. It is a linguist's paradise for dialects, rapid change, and development.

Such breadth-plus some 20 million speakers within the borders of the United States itself-gives multiple opportunities for developing skill in the spoken language, as well as in listening, reading, writing, and translation. Studying the Iberian roots of this large and important part of the population and learning about the people's perception of life also brings greater understanding of their values and their struggle for identity. A Spanish or Portuguese major makes for a demanding, intriguing, and pleasurable experience.

Challenge exam and translation exam Details

The Department of Spanish and Portuguese

Site last updated on 28 March 2007