Minor in Spanish
Hours: 25 On-Campus Online
About
The Minor in Spanish program at Fort Hays State University is designed to enhance students’ Spanish language proficiency while fostering a deeper understanding of the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. Suitable for students in any major, the program provides valuable skills that can lead to a wide range of professional and academic opportunities.
The curriculum includes foundational courses that build essential language skills, along with flexible elective options tailored to individual interests and career goals. Elective offerings include Business Spanish, Medical Spanish, Translating and Interpreting, and Hispanic Studies, which explores literature, film, culture, and more.
Why pursue a Minor in Spanish at Fort Hays State University?
The Minor in Spanish offers a flexible and accessible pathway to language proficiency. With courses available fully online or on campus, students can choose the format that best fits their needs. The program features clear, transparent requirements, making it easy to complete the minor alongside any major.
Who is this program for?
This minor is designed for a diverse range of students seeking to enhance their language skills and deepen their cultural understanding. It may be especially beneficial for the following individuals:
- Students seeking careers where Spanish fluency is a significant asset
- Individuals passionate about travel and exploring new cultures
- Those interested in global affairs and international relations
- Students who want to complement their major with valuable language skills
Real-World Applications
The minor emphasizes practical, real-world language skills. Throughout the coursework, students engage in activities that simulate the speaking, writing, translating, and interpreting situations they are likely to encounter in their careers. Study abroad opportunities in Latin America are strongly encouraged, providing invaluable immersion in both language and culture.
Students will develop practical language skills applicable across a wide range of fields. The program’s focus on effective communication and cultural understanding supports language fluency, enhances academic performance, and prepares students for success in a dynamic global workforce.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The Minor in Spanish program features a dynamic, up-to-date curriculum that reflects the latest advancements in the field. Courses are regularly updated, and instructors actively engage in professional development to remain current with teaching methodologies, Latin American culture, and developments in Spanish linguistics. The program also acknowledges the unique needs of heritage speakers by providing specialized coursework tailored to their backgrounds.
Hands-on Activities
While the initial courses in the Minor in Spanish focus on building foundational skills, Fort Hays State University offers opportunities for hands-on learning and cultural engagement. Students can join the Spanish Club to participate in activities such as Hispanic dance, Spanish conversation, and cultural immersion. Additionally, the Beginning Spanish I course includes an intercultural competence project that allows students to apply their language skills while engaging with diverse communities.
What You’ll Learn:
- Real-world Spanish communication skills
- Practical applications for various careers
- Translating and interpreting techniques
- Fluency in speaking and writing
- Deep cultural knowledge of the Hispanic world
How You’ll Learn:
- Diverse courses to improve your Spanish
- Focus on core language proficiency
- Flexible electives for individual goals
- Fully online courses available
- Transparent program requirements
The program offers a solid foundation in the Spanish language while exploring the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Students start with introductory and intermediate courses that cover essential grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills. Electives and advanced courses in conversation, grammar, and composition further enhance language proficiency and cultural fluency, supporting the successful completion of the Minor in Spanish.
MLNG 451: Medical Spanish I
This course is an introductory course presenting the medical expressions and terminology related to the relationship between patients and health professionals in Spanish.
MLNG 461: Translating and Interpreting I
This course is an introductory course in translation for students of Spanish that accommodates students with an advanced level of Spanish.
MLNG 471: Business Spanish I
This advanced Business Spanish course, the first in a three-course series, focuses on business terminology and scenarios relevant to Spanish-speaking countries and the U.S. Taught in Spanish, it enhances students' communication skills and intercultural competency through exploration of sociocultural and sociolinguistic issues.
Discover the full Minor in Spanish course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
A Minor in Spanish opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. While a student’s major will play a key role, proficiency in Spanish can provide a valuable advantage in several exciting fields.
Translation and Interpretation
Students can work as freelance or in-house translators and interpreters across multiple industries. Facilitate communication between Spanish and English speakers in legal, medical, business, or technical settings.
Education
Education positions range from Spanish language instructors in schools to developing educational materials or working with language-learning software companies.
International Business
Businesses in Spanish-speaking countries always need employees with cultural awareness and language skills. This can involve sales, marketing, customer service, or international logistics.
Government and Nonprofit Work
Professionals may serve in roles with foreign aid organizations, international nonprofits, or government agencies, including positions in diplomacy and foreign service. Proficiency in Spanish is essential for building strong relationships and promoting cross-cultural understanding in these settings.
Law and Law Enforcement
Spanish language skills are increasingly sought-after in the legal field, especially in areas like immigration law. Law enforcement agencies also value bilingual officers for community outreach and investigations.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers complementary programs designed to enhance language skills and expand career opportunities. Students seeking to align their studies with specific career goals may also consider exploring the following related programs:
- Certificate in Spanish
- B.A. in Modern Languages (Spanish for Specific Purposes)
- B.A. in Modern Languages (Spanish and Teacher Education)
This minor opens doors to careers in translation, education, international business, government, and law enforcement. It emphasizes practical language skills, real-world applications, and cultural understanding. Students build a strong Spanish foundation through core courses, tailor their studies with electives, and gain hands-on experience through activities like the Spanish Club.
This minor is offered both on-campus and online, providing flexibility for those looking to enhance their Spanish language skills and cultural understanding.
A Minor in Spanish helps students develop practical communication skills, gain cultural insight, and enhance career opportunities. The program emphasizes real-world language use, offers flexible course options, and provides a clear path to completion. Students learn to speak, understand, and write Spanish for professional settings—an asset in fields like international business, education, translation, and government.
Yes—there are no specific admission requirements. The minor is open to all students looking to improve their Spanish language skills and cultural understanding. It features flexible online courses, real-world language practice, and optional study abroad opportunities.
Yes. If you have prior Spanish experience but no formal coursework, FHSU offers a placement test to determine your starting level. Contact the Department of English and Modern Languages to schedule the test and receive personalized course recommendations. This helps you avoid repeating material, save time and money, and start at the right level.
Information about the Department of English and Modern Languages
The Department of English and Modern Languages at FHSU provides students with a comprehensive education that integrates critical thinking, effective writing, and foreign language proficiency. Offering degrees in both English and Modern Languages, students can choose to specialize in concentrations such as teaching, writing, literature, or foreign languages. These programs are designed to cultivate adaptability, creativity, and leadership skills essential for success across a wide range of career paths.
Whether pursuing a future in education, business, or international relations, students benefit from the combined strengths of literary analysis and language fluency, enhancing their competitiveness in an increasingly globalized job market.
Students also have access to a variety of unique extracurricular opportunities, including service-learning projects, involvement with award-winning publications, and participation in cultural and language events. Dual-degree options, such as Nursing/Spanish and Business/Spanish, offer added flexibility and open doors to broader career possibilities.
With a dedicated faculty and a supportive academic environment, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their professions and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Sigma Tau Delta: The English honor society at FHSU, dedicated to promoting a strong interest in literature and writing. The organization offers students valuable opportunities for leadership, academic recognition, and participation in national conventions and events.
- Lines from the Middle of Nowhere: An award-winning literary and arts journal showcasing the creative talents of FHSU students. Students can participate by serving on the editorial board or by submitting their original work for publication.
- Hispanic Dance Sessions: Sponsored by the Spanish Club, these sessions celebrate and promote Hispanic culture through dance. Open to all students and community members, the sessions provide an engaging and inclusive way to explore cultural expression and connect through movement.
- Tertulia: A casual and welcoming gathering where students can practice Spanish conversation with peers, faculty, and community members in a relaxed, supportive environment.
- Hispanic Film Festival: This cultural event offers audiences the opportunity to explore Hispanic culture through film, featuring screenings that highlight significant themes and issues relevant to the Hispanic world.
- Spanish Club: The Spanish Club organizes a variety of cultural events, fundraisers, and activities that celebrate and promote Hispanic culture. Events such as salsa parties and dance sessions provide students with fun, immersive opportunities to engage with the language and traditions of the Hispanic world.
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