A notebook page with English words translated into Spanish.

World Languages Spanish Education

Learning a language broadens your understanding of the world in which we live. Spanish K-12 teachers work with students on how to speak, read and write Spanish. In addition, world language teachers help their students understand the many cultures in which Spanish is spoken, facilitating their transformation into global citizens.

Earn a Major in Spanish (K-12) with a Co-Major in K-12 Education

The World Languages Spanish Education major provides students the opportunity to develop a solid command of the Spanish language, and an understanding of the literature, culture and linguistics of the Hispanic world. We offer (and strongly recommend) study abroad as a fundamental component of the Spanish major. In the Spanish major you will:

  • Gain the knowledge and skills to have a positive impact on students in the K-12 classroom
  • Become part of a supportive network of fellow students, alumni and faculty who will inspire and sustain you throughout your career
  • Learn from expert faculty closely connected with the K-12 classroom who are here to help you shape your path to your own classroom
  • Earn a license to teach in K-12 education, along with important leadership skills

Program Overview

  • Course Requirements
  • Four Year Plan
  • Degree Awarded
  • Service learning, internships, etc.
  • Course Requirements

    To be licensed to teach World Language and Cultures K-12 in Minnesota, you must demonstrate an advanced level of speaking proficiency in both English and the target language. In our program you’ll complete courses in advanced Spanish grammar, written Spanish and oral expression, along with linguistics, Spanish or Latin American culture and Spanish literature.

    Four Year Plan

    Our faculty are here to develop your four-year plan catered to your personal and professional goals.

    Degree Awarded

    BA in World Languages Spanish Education (K-12)

    Service learning, internships, etc.

    We offer (and strongly recommend) study abroad as a fundamental component of the Spanish major.

    Course Requirements

    Course Requirements

    To be licensed to teach World Language and Cultures K-12 in Minnesota, you must demonstrate an advanced level of speaking proficiency in both English and the target language. In our program you’ll complete courses in advanced Spanish grammar, written Spanish and oral expression, along with linguistics, Spanish or Latin American culture and Spanish literature.

    Four Year Plan

    Four Year Plan

    Our faculty are here to develop your four-year plan catered to your personal and professional goals.

    Degree Awarded

    Degree Awarded

    BA in World Languages Spanish Education (K-12)

    Service learning, internships, etc.

    Service learning, internships, etc.

    We offer (and strongly recommend) study abroad as a fundamental component of the Spanish major.

    A woman wearing headphones sits at a laptop taking notes.

    Possible Careers

    • World languages teacher
    • Immersion teacher (with additional licensure for K-6 Elementary)
    • Translator

    95 Percent Pass Rate

    Our elementary and secondary teacher candidates average above 95 percent pass rates on the Basic Skills and Pedagogy licensure exams.

    Teacher of the Year

    Since 2000, eight Tommies have been named Minnesota Teacher of the Year.

    Four Years

    You can complete your BA with licensure in four years.

    Take the Next Step​

    best-value-logo-2022-transparent.pngThere is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.