Engage with the richness of Spanish language and culture through St. Ambrose University's Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. Our program offers comprehensive study of Spanish literature, media, politics, pop culture, and film, providing insights into linguistic nuances, current events and cultural expressions. Dive into the vibrant Spanish-speaking world, developing valuable skills for global communication and intercultural understanding
In our contemporary and rigorous approach to Spanish language acquisition, you’ll cultivate reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills, through creative and compelling courses. Our program cultivates your critical thinking and gives you a competitive edge in the workforce.
Talk with native speakers, participate in cultural activities, and deepen your understanding of the language and culture.
The majority of your Spanish courses are taught entirely in Spanish ensuring you master the written and oral language.
Multilingual skills are highly valued in education, healthcare, and criminal justice fields.
Our faculty, staff, and students create a learning environment, cultivating creativity, innovation, and a sense of community.
Our Spanish Teacher Education program is available for students interested in teaching Spanish at the secondary level.
In our comprehensive program, you’ll become fluent in Spanish and gain the tools to understand Hispanic culture. Additionally, you’ll cultivate your critical thinking, memory, flexibility, and an awareness of global perspectives. Our program fosters skilled, versatile, and competent graduates highly sought after by employers.
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SPAN 311 | Advanced Spanish Grammar | 3 credits |
| SPAN 312 | Spanish Electives Abroad | 3-12 credits |
| SPAN 313 | Writing in Spanish | 3 credits |
| SPAN 317 | Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics | 3 credits |
| SPAN 400 | Capstone | 1 credit |
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,917 | $37,833 |
| Housing** | $4,140 | $8,280 |
| Food*** | $2,750 | $5,500 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,947 | $51,893 |
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
St. Ambrose University’s Spanish faculty are a collective of experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge, diverse perspectives, and an unwavering passion for teaching to the classroom. Their dedication to creating bilingual and bicultural students is the cornerstone of the program's success.
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
The Spanish department offers two scholarships for students to study overseas. Learn more about the Foreign Language Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
"I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid and I'm getting a good education."
-Alexis Stovall, Davenport, Iowa
Work with the SAU and Quad Cities Latino communities by joining Latino Unidos. In this club, you’ll help increase awareness about the Latino community and culture. Students also participate in traditional celebrations like Día de los Muertos, Cinco de Mayo, and Hispanic Heritage Month.
High-achieving Spanish students can become members of Chi Ph, the SAU Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi, a National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society (Sociedad Nacional Honoraria Hispánica).
“Getting involved with the faculty really taught me a lot about balance, leadership, and creation. I believe all those skills help me to be the best teacher I can be today.”
-Faith Boyd ’20, BA in Spanish, BS in Exercise Science
Ready to become a Bee? Here are the admissions requirements for our Spanish program.
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Spanish program could achieve.
Potential job titles
Potential employment settings
Top traits of a Spanish graduate
For more information on Spanish employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
>
Join us for our Spring Commencement Ceremony to celebrate Spring 2025 degree recipients.
Read more
Private higher education makes a positive difference all across Iowa, and Catholic institutions offer a supportive environment to learn and grow.
Read more
The 2023 Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award will be given to Sheryl Olitzky and Atiya Aftab.
Read more
With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
