The University of South Dakota

We offer:

• Major: Spanish, B.A. 
• Minor: Spanish
• Minor: Interdisciplinary Language Areas

See a sample four-year course of study and course descriptions from our undergraduate catalog.

Understanding Cultures

Spanish is the number one minority speaking language in the United States today. Knowledge of the Spanish language is imperative for students in business, teaching, politics, health services, local, regional, and federal government tasks, and numerous other societal/institutional organizations. 

Our Spanish program develops student proficiency in reading, writing, listening, speaking and understanding the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures. The ultimate goal is to assist students in the appreciation of other foreign languages and of the cultures from the international community.  

Faculty help students apply their knowledge of Spanish in a professional setting throughout their undergraduate coursework and after graduation from the University. Classroom instruction is supplemented with language laboratory, video tapes, other visual aids and tutors.  

The Spanish program leads to the undergraduate degree in Spanish (for degree requirements) or, in combination with any other academic discipline, a double major in Spanish. The minor in Spanish is also available. We do not offer a master's degree program in Spanish; however, many of the upper-division courses are also offered for graduate credit. Students seeking graduate degrees in other disciplines at The U may choose to take these courses to complete their major area of graduate study.

Beyond the Classroom

Our program offers many opportunities for you to study abroad or get involved!

Study Abroad

We offer several opportunities each year for students to study abroad. See our Continuing and Distance Education site to see the upcoming opportunities that are scheduled. Past trips have been to places such as Peru and Spain.  

A trip we organize annually is a study tour at the University of Vigo, Spain.

• Program Objectives: Encourage academic cooperation and develop cultural understanding between students and faculty of USD and the University of Vigo, Spain.
• Program Description: Exchange students spend an academic year (September-July) at the University of Vigo, Spain, where they may choose from the full range of courses, provided that they satisfy the individual course prerequisites. Students have the opportunity to perfect their Spanish language skills and broaden their comprehension of the customs and culture of Spain. Academic credits received by the student will be recognized by USD. 
• Eligibility Requirements: The requirements for participation in the exchange program at The University of Vigo are the completion of four semesters of college Spanish (or equivalent) before the commencement of the program. It is also desirable that the the study abroad experience to be a success, it is crucial that participants demonstrate academic motivation as well as personal maturity.
• Application Deadline: Selection is made in the spring for the following fall term.
• Contact: 

  Clayton Lehmann, Professor
  Ancient History, Medieval History, Early Modern History
  210 East Hall
  605-677-5573

• Additional Information and Forms: Please visit the Center for Academic Engagement site for brochures, policies, applications and more.

Sigma Delta Pi

The U is home to the Nu Omnicron chapter of the Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society.

Spanish Club

This student organization is a fun learning and social environment for students studying Spanish. Students will have the opportunity to learn about culture, language, and customs associated with the Spanish-speaking countries. For more information, contact Rubí Ugofsky-Méndez.

La Hora del café

If you want to practice your Spanish oral skills in a relaxed atmosphere, come and join in for the coffee hour. Anyone who wants to speak Spanish or enjoy some coffee is welcome to participate!