Edited By Charlotte Sears
Review & Contribution By Dr. Emily Carter
Learning Spanish opens opportunities for international collaboration, trade, and diplomacy. An Associate’s Degree in Spanish equips language skills, cultural understanding, and career opportunities.
An online Spanish associate’s degree offers students a comprehensive knowledge of the languages spoken and written forms. The program curriculum encompasses various elements such as vocabulary memorization, verb conjugation, speaking exercises, readings, and lectures. A high school diploma or GED is required as a minimum prerequisite to enroll in the program. Successful completion of the program will enable them to communicate proficiently within Spanish-speaking communities and foster an appreciation and understanding of Spanish culture and traditions. Additionally, even those who are already native Spanish speakers can benefit from enhancing their skills through an associate’s degree in Spanish online. Upon completing an associate degree program in Spanish, graduates will be equipped to pursue various career paths, such as working as translators in business settings, serving as teaching assistants in Spanish-speaking classrooms, or specializing as medical transcriptionists in Spanish. Moreover, graduates may continue their education by transferring to four-year bachelor’s degree programs.
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Featured Online Associates in Liberal Arts Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Associates Programs
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Associate’s Degree in Spanish Programs
Many colleges across the U.S. provide associate programs in Spanish, and choosing from them can be daunting. However, we have taken the time to thoroughly evaluate each program based on several factors like accreditation, curriculum, faculty, flexibility and convenience, technology and resources, student support services, and more. This ensures that you can make an informed decision and feel confident in choosing the best associate’s degree in Spanish online.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Foothill College | 12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills, California 94022 | $3,585 | 58% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Associate’s Degree in Spanish Program
The Associate’s degree in Spanish online equips students with proficiency in the Spanish language and cultural understanding. Typically spanning over two years, the program includes diverse courses to build language proficiency, cultural awareness, and communication skills. They usually begin with foundational courses in the Spanish language, progressing through intermediate and advanced levels. Cultural studies are significant, covering topics such as Spanish-speaking countries’ history, art, literature, and contemporary issues. Literature courses delve into substantial works of Spanish and Latin American authors, while communication skills courses focus on oral and written proficiency, translation, and interpretation. The program offers flexible learning options, including online and traditional classroom-based courses, accommodating learner’s schedules and preferences. Upon completion, graduates are prepared for various career opportunities in education, translation and interpretation, international business, tourism, social services, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
The associate’s in Spanish degree is specifically designed for students who wish to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in Spanish at a community college and transfer to a university to obtain a BA in Spanish. Through this program, they can explore the Spanish language and culture. Generally, careers in this field require a bachelor’s degree. Learning Spanish is not solely about vocabulary and grammar but also entails the acquisition of new sounds, expressions, and perspectives. Moreover, it involves developing an appreciation for other cultures.
Depending on the study duration and practice level, they attain different levels of Spanish proficiency. With an AA degree in Spanish, students can expect to achieve an Intermediate-Low to Intermediate-Mid level of ability, according to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. Some standard courses students can expect across different institutions include
Beginning Spanish
This foundational course introduces the Spanish language to students with little to no prior knowledge. Interactive lessons teach them essential vocabulary, grammar structures, and pronunciation rules. Emphasis is placed on developing basic conversational skills, allowing them to engage in simple dialogues and express themselves in everyday situations. By the end of the course, students should be able to comprehend and produce basic sentences, greetings, and common expressions in Spanish.
Introduction to Spanish Culture
This course comprehensively explores the diverse cultures in Spanish-speaking countries. Students delve into the historical, social, political, and artistic aspects that shape these cultures’ identities. Topics may include the influence of indigenous cultures, colonial legacies, regional diversity, cultural traditions, festivals, and contemporary issues. Through readings, discussions, and multimedia presentations, students gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Spanish-speaking communities.
Survey of Spanish Literature
This course provides an overview of significant works of Spanish literature from various periods and genres. Students explore literary masterpieces by renowned authors such as Miguel de Cervantes, Gabriel García Márquez, and Federico García Lorca. Through close reading and analysis, they examine themes, motifs, narrative techniques, and historical contexts within these literary texts. Discussions may also explore these works’ cultural significance and enduring legacy within Spanish-speaking societies and the global literary canon.
Conversation and Composition
This course focuses on honing students’ oral communication and written expression skills in Spanish. They practice engaging in spontaneous conversations on various topics through interactive activities, role-plays, and group discussions. Writing assignments encourage them to express their ideas, opinions, and experiences in coherent and grammatically correct written texts. Emphasis is placed on developing vocabulary, sentence structure, and idiomatic expressions to enhance fluency and accuracy in spoken and written communication.
Spanish Language I
This introductory course lays the foundation for acquiring proficiency in the Spanish language. Students learn basic vocabulary and grammar concepts, such as greetings, introductions, numbers, colors, and common expressions. Through interactive lessons, listening exercises, and speaking drills, they develop essential language skills for communication in everyday situations. Emphasis is placed on pronunciation, sentence structure, and verb conjugation to build a solid linguistic foundation.
Spanish Language II
Building upon the fundamentals established in Spanish Language I, this intermediate-level course aims to further develop students’ language skills and proficiency. Students expand their vocabulary and grammatical knowledge to tackle more complex linguistic structures and communicative tasks. Emphasis is placed on enhancing fluency, accuracy, and cultural understanding in oral and written communication.
Some of the other courses that the students take up are:
- Elementary Spanish I and II
- Intermediate Spanish I and II
- Advanced Spanish Grammar
- Advanced Spanish Composition
- Spanish Conversation and Pronunciation
- Introduction to Hispanic Literature
- Spanish Civilization and Culture
- Latin American Civilization and Culture
- Spanish for Business and Tourism
- Spanish for Healthcare Professionals
- Spanish for Law Enforcement
- Spanish Linguistics
- Spanish Translation and Interpretation
- Spanish Film and Media Studies
- Spanish for Heritage Speakers
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The Spanish program typically begins with introductory classes unless a student demonstrates proficiency and can test into more advanced courses. During the initial years in Spanish, students are usually exposed to linguistic methods to understand the language’s mechanics better. They also learn advanced verb forms and complex tenses and expand their vocabulary.
Completing an associate’s in Spanish degree online equips students with a range of valuable skills and knowledge that prepare them for various academic and professional endeavors. Some such expected learning outcomes and skills gained from such a degree include the ability to
- demonstrate a high level of proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in Spanish;
- demonstrate understanding of the diverse cultures, traditions, and customs of Spanish-speaking countries;
- demonstrate the ability to evaluate information, draw connections, and formulate informed opinions;
- demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills in Spanish, enabling them to express themselves clearly, coherently, and persuasively;
- demonstrate sensitivity and adaptability in intercultural interactions, navigating diverse cultural norms and practices with respect and understanding;
- demonstrate proficiency in conducting research, evaluating sources, and synthesizing Spanish language, literature, and culture information;
- demonstrate adaptability and flexibility in navigating diverse linguistic and cultural contexts;
- demonstrate listening and speaking skills to understand and respond appropriately in various situations, such as in a professional or social setting.
- demonstrate their knowledge and critical thinking skills by clearly, concisely, and engagingly presenting findings.
Types of Degrees Spanish Students Can Obtain
Online Spanish associate’s degrees are available under different names. Some students opt for an arts program, while some choose a science or applied science program. The results and job prospects are the same in both degrees. Below are the three online Spanish associate program degrees students can earn.
Associate of Arts (AA) in Spanish
AA in Spanish is a degree program that offers students a basic understanding of the Spanish language, literature, and culture. This degree stresses liberal arts education, which includes general education courses like social sciences, humanities, and math. It is best suited for those who want to transfer to a bachelor’s in Spanish language, literature, and culture.
Associate of Science (AS) in Spanish
AS in Spanish is a degree program that offers students a deeper understanding of the Spanish language and culture. This degree emphasizes sciences and mathematics, including biology, chemistry, and physics. The AS in Spanish is suitable for those pursuing a healthcare, technology, or science career, where Spanish proficiency is valuable.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Spanish
AAS in Spanish is a degree program designed to provide students with practical skills and knowledge of the Spanish language and culture. This degree emphasizes vocational training, including Spanish language, translation, interpretation, and business courses. The AAS in Spanish is suitable for those who want to enter the workforce immediately after graduation and pursue careers in various fields, including business, hospitality, education, and social services.
Areas of Specialization for Spanish Students
Specializations in the Spanish associate’s degree allow students to gain more in-depth knowledge and skills. Specializations within an associate degree program can also help to be more competitive in the job market, as they will have gained specialized skills and knowledge in addition to their general education coursework. But most of the time, associate programs do not offer specializations because the associate degree is a very elementary stage of the degree. Thus, students might have to wait till the bachelor’s degree to choose specializations such as Spanish for Business, Spanish for Health Professions, Spanish for Education, Hispanic Culture and Literature, and Spanish Translation and Interpretation.
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
To earn associate’s in Spanish, full-timers typically complete a rigorous course load of 12-15 credit hours per semester, allowing them to finish their degree within two years or four semesters. Although daytime classes are standard, some programs offer evening or weekend courses. Meanwhile, part-time programs are designed for those who cannot commit to a full-time course load due to family, work, or other commitments. Typically, part-timers take fewer credits each semester, extending the time needed to complete the degree. Depending on course availability, they can attend classes during the day, evening, or on weekends, providing them with scheduling flexibility.
Admissions Requirements for an Associate’s Degree in Spanish
Many colleges offer an associate’s degree in Spanish online, which is an excellent option for students who have constraints on taking an offline program. The credibility of an online program is the same as a physical program. Here are some requirements for an associate’s degree in Spanish online, including
- high school diploma or equivalent, such as a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Some programs may also consider applicants who are currently completing high school;
- minimum GPA threshold may vary by institution but typically falls within the range of 2.0 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;
- some programs may require applicants to demonstrate proficiency in Spanish before admission;
- complete application form for admission to the program;
- official transcripts from high school or any post-secondary institutions attended;
- letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities, character, and potential for success in the program;
- personal statement or essay detailing their interest in studying Spanish, academic and career goals, and relevant experiences or achievements;
- application fee to process admission applications.
How to Ensure an Associate’s Degree in Spanish Is Accredited
Accreditation for an Associate’s Degree in Spanish is vital when choosing a program. It ensures that the educational institution and program meet established standards of quality and rigor. Students should look for programs accredited by the following regional bodies of accreditation.
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) [1]
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) [2]
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC) [3]
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) [4]
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) [5]
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) [6]
- Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)[7]
Programmatic accreditations for an associate’s degree in Spanish online might include:
For more information on accreditation, do read the guide to college accreditation.
Where to Find Free Spanish Courses For Associate’s Degree in Spanish Students
Free Spanish courses offer valuable opportunities for individuals to learn and practice the Spanish language at no cost. These courses provide accessible resources for beginners to start learning Spanish or for intermediate learners to improve their skills. Free Spanish courses accommodate diverse learning styles and busy lifestyles by offering flexibility in scheduling and self-paced learning options. Some free Spanish courses students can find helpful include:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Learn Spanish: Basic Spanish Vocabulary Specialization [10] | This course is perfect for beginners without experience learning a second language. It aims to equip them with the skills to write, read, and speak Spanish for travel or business purposes. It also promotes cultural awareness for those who want to learn a second language. | Coursera |
| Spanish Vocabulary Project [11] | This course simulates an application for an all-expenses-paid educational trip to a Spanish-speaking country. One will introduce themselves to a host family, research and compare the culture and history of the place, plan an itinerary, and summarize their report in an oral presentation. It’s a challenging course designed to test one’s Spanish vocabulary and provide an opportunity to assess their learning progress. | Coursera |
| Spanish Vocabulary: Meeting People [12] | This elementary course is the first step to exploring the foundations of Spanish grammar and pronunciation. It enables building a working vocabulary of common Spanish words and expressions and talking about oneself, family, and friends in the present tense. The course includes interactive activities, videos, and exercises to explore the cultural context of the Spanish-speaking world. | Coursera |
Ways to Pay for a Spanish Associate Degree
Various financial aid options and funding sources can pay for an associate’s degree in Spanish. By exploring these options and funding sources, students can find the resources they need to pursue a Spanish associate degree and invest in their education and future career opportunities. Here are some common ways to cover the costs:
Financial Aid
One can apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligible ones may receive grants, loans, or work-study opportunities to help cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
Scholarships
Many institutions, organizations, and foundations offer scholarships for students pursuing Spanish or language studies degrees. They can search for scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, ethnicity, or other criteria.
Grants
Students may be eligible for grants from federal, state, or private sources, which do not need to be repaid. Grants are typically awarded based on financial need and may cover all or part of the cost of tuition and fees.
Work-Study Programs
Federal work-study programs provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need. They can work on campus or in the community to earn money to help pay for educational expenses.
Employer Tuition Assistance
Some employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs as part of their employee benefits package. Full-timers may be able to take advantage of these programs to help cover the cost of their education.
Personal Savings and Payment Plans
One can use personal savings, such as college savings accounts or funds from part-time employment, to pay tuition and fees. Additionally, some institutions offer flexible payment plans that allow the spreading of the cost of tuition over multiple installments.
Student Loans
While loans should be used as a last resort, after exploring other funding options, students may consider federal or private student loans to help cover any remaining educational expenses. Considering the terms and repayment options before taking out a loan is essential. Some donors help to pay off such loans.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Associate’s Degree in Spanish
A Spanish associate’s degree is the first step towards becoming a Spanish language expert. It is an entry-level degree, and the jobs available after this program are also essential. As students advance toward a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, the quality of employment gets better and more intricate.
Earning an Associate’s Degree in Spanish opens up various career opportunities across diverse industries where bilingualism and cultural understanding are valued. Some potential career paths include:
- Bilingual Customer Service Representative
- Interpreter or Translator
- Language Teacher Assistant
- Cultural Liaison or Community Outreach Coordinator
- Travel and Tourism Specialist
- International Business Assistant
- Social Services Provider
- Immigration Services Specialist
These are just a few examples of the diverse career opportunities available to individuals with an Associate’s Degree in Spanish. With bilingualism and cultural competence becoming increasingly valuable in today’s globalized world, graduates of Spanish degree programs are well-positioned for success in a wide range of professions. Below are elaborated upon a few of these careers:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interpreters and Translators [13] | Interpreters and translators are crucial in facilitating communication between individuals who speak different languages. They convert concepts, style, and tone from the source language to equivalent concepts, style, and tone in the target language, ensuring accurate and effective communication. | Business skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, and listening skills | 4% as fast as the average for other occupations | $53,640 per year |
| Customer Service Representatives [14] | Customer service representatives are pivotal in ensuring positive interactions between a company and its customers. They attentively listen to customers’ questions and concerns, offering prompt and accurate responses to address inquiries or resolve issues. Additionally, customer service representatives provide valuable information about products and services, guiding customers through purchasing and assisting with order placement. | Communication skills, customer service skills, listening skills, and problem-solving skills | -5% decline as compared to other occupations | $37,780 per year |
| Information Clerks [15] | Information clerks are crucial in organizing and managing information within an organization. They are responsible for preparing routine reports, claims, bills, or orders and ensuring accuracy and completeness in documentation. Information clerks collect and record data from various sources, including customers, staff, and the public, meticulously organizing and maintaining records for easy access and retrieval. | Communication skills, interpersonal skills, organizational skills, and integrity | -4% decline as compared to other occupations | $38,710 per year |
| Retail Sales Workers [16] | Retail sales workers are vital in providing excellent customer service and driving sales within a retail environment. They greet customers warmly and offer assistance, creating a welcoming and positive shopping experience. By actively listening to customers’ wants and needs, retail sales workers recommend merchandise that aligns with their preferences and requirements, demonstrating a deep understanding of the products available. | Interpersonal skills, math skills, persistence, and marketing skills | -2% decline as compared to other occupations | $30,750 per year |
Certifications and Licensing for Associate’s Degree in Spanish Graduates
While pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Spanish, students have the opportunity to enhance their language proficiency and cultural understanding, preparing them for various career paths where bilingualism and multicultural competence are valued. In addition to academic coursework, they may pursue certifications and licenses to validate further their skills and credentials in the Spanish language and culture field. These certifications and licenses provide tangible evidence of proficiency and may enhance job prospects and professional advancement opportunities. Some of the certifications that online Spanish associate degree graduates can pursue include
Standards-Based Assessment & Measurement of Proficiency (STAMP) [17]
Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency is an assessment approach that evaluates a person’s knowledge and skills based on predetermined standards or learning objectives. It involves measuring an individual’s proficiency in a particular subject area by comparing their performance against established standards rather than their performance to that of their peers.
Certificate of Use of Language in Spanish (CELU) [18]
Argentina offers an internationally recognized proficiency test of Spanish called CELU, which assesses the language skills of non-native Spanish speakers for academic and work purposes. The Ministry of Education and Foreign Affairs and Worship of Argentina endorse the exam.
Oral Proficiency Interview in Spanish (OPI) [19]
ACTFL OPI is a trusted and valid test to evaluate speaking proficiency. It is interactive and adaptive, consisting of a 20–30-minute phone interview with a certified tester. The OPI assesses all speaking proficiency levels on the ACTFL scale, from Novice to Superior, and follows the 2012 Speaking Guidelines. ACTFL-certified testers grade all tests.
Additional Resources for Associate’s Degree in Spanish Graduates
Joining a professional organization offers numerous benefits and opportunities for career development and advancement. These organizations provide a supportive network of fellow professionals, educators, and industry experts who share a passion for the Spanish language and culture. Associate students access valuable resources by becoming members, including professional development opportunities, networking events, job boards, and educational materials. Some organizations that associate’s degree in Spanish online students can include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP) [20] | The American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese supports studying the Spanish and Portuguese languages at all educational levels, as well as the Hispanic, Luso-Brazilian, and associated literature and cultures. |
| National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE) [21] | The National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE) has advocated for educational equity and excellence for bilingual/multilingual students in a global society since 1975 as a non-profit membership organization. |
| Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) [22] | The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), established in 1986, covers more than 500 institutions of higher learning in the US, Latin America, Spain, and the US school systems. It is the only national organization that speaks for established and upcoming Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). |
| Spanish Language Division of the American Translators Association (ATA) [23] | The objective of ATA is to encourage the acknowledgment of professional interpreters and translators, enhance communication among its members, establish moral and proficient standards, offer members opportunities for professional growth, and support the profession through advocacy. |
| Spanish Texas [24] | Established on March 2, 1897, in Austin, TSHA’s founders united lay and professional historians to chronicle and commemorate the state’s multifaceted and diverse history. TSHA continues to adhere to its founders’ vision by disseminating Texas’s history to people across the state, country, and world. |
FAQs About Associate’s Degree in Spanish Programs
Why should you do an associate’s degree in Spanish online?
An online associate’s degree in Spanish offers flexibility, a more comprehensive range of course options, cost savings, and virtual exchange programs for real-world language practice. It can be a convenient and flexible way to achieve academic and career goals.
Are there accelerated online Spanish associate degrees?
Where can I get an associate’s degree in Spanish?
What can you do with an associate’s degree in Spanish online?
Citations:
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL)
Learn Spanish: Basic Spanish Vocabulary Specialization-Coursera
Spanish Vocabulary Project-Coursera
Spanish Vocabulary: Meeting People-Coursera
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Interpreters and Translators
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Customer Service Representatives
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Information Clerks
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Retail Sale Workers
Standards-Based Assessment & Measurement of Proficiency (STAMP)
Certificate of Use of Language in Spanish (CELU)
Oral Proficiency Interview in Spanish (OPI)
American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP)
National Association for Bilingual Education
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
Spanish Language Division of the American Translators Association (ATA)