Spanish Major

Translation and Interpretation Specialization

The importance of the Spanish language is an undisputed fact in our 21st century global community. Spoken by 400 million people, it is the second language of the Western Hemisphere. It is also the language of more than 22 countries.

At Barry University, Spanish majors will be surrounded by a diverse Hispanic community. Studying Spanish in a region known as the ‘gateway to South America' will provide unprecedented opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in education, business, international affairs, government, law, communication, history and philosophy. And it goes without saying that our students can practice speaking Spanish every day – on and off campus!

The Spanish program at Barry strives for proficiency in four basic skills including listening, speaking, reading and writing, as well as a deeper understanding of the Hispanic culture. Just as the Internet has changed the sense of distance between countries around the world, the study of language will further enhance the way we transmit and receive information in all areas of our lives.

Knowing another language will not only expand your range of personal opportunities but will give you important job-related skills and knowledge for that competitive edge in today's job market.

The translation and interpretation major is designed to give students from a variety of backgrounds the opportunity to learn about theories, methods and practices for a possible career as translators or interpreters.

Goals of the translation and interpretation specialization:

• Develop translation and interpretation skills in Spanish and English
• Increase knowledge and understanding of other cultures
• Enhance students' confidence in both languages
• Familiarize students with theories, methods, practices and techniques to prepare for a career as a translator or interpreter

To undertake this major, students must demonstrate a minimum proficiency in Spanish and English at the intermediate-high level. Proficiency will be determined by examination.

Mission

The Translation and Interpretation major fulfills the mission of the university by offering quality education in the liberal arts tradition in an interdisciplinary fashion. It incorporates various liberal arts disciplines and responds to the changing needs of students in a multiethnic and multilingual society.

Goals

1. Developing translation and interpretation skills in Spanish and English.
2. Acquiring knowledge and understanding of other cultures.
3. Connecting with other disciplines and acquiring information.
4. Participating in multilingual communities at home and around the world.

Prospective Students

The major is designed to give students from a variety of backgrounds an opportunity to acquire knowledge of the theories, methods, and practices of translation and interpretation so they can pursue careers as translators or interpreters or engage in graduate studies in the field.

Admission Requirements

To undertake this major students must demonstrate a minimum proficiency in Spanish and English at the intermediate-high level. Proficiency will be determined by examination.

Curriculum

Our curriculum aims to:

1. Enhance students' confidence in both languages by sharpening their language skills.
2. Increase students' cultural awareness.
3. Familiarize students with the theories, methods, and practices of translation and interpretation.
4. Sharpen students' skills and techniques in translation and interpretation.

Graduation Requirements

A minimum grade of C is required in all courses and a 2.5 GPA. If a student earns a grade below C in any of the courses the course must be repeated.

Students must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours in courses from the following list which includes a capstone course and other university requirements for a grand total of 120 credits.

Translation and Interpretation Courses (15 credits)

(COM 104 OR SPE 101 are pre-requisites for COM 304)

General Education Courses (51-52 credits)
Minor or Elective Courses (32-33 credits)
Degree Total 120 Credits