Spanish Program

Malaga, Spain Skyline

Bakersfield College offers an Associate in Arts (AA) degree in Spanish. This program is designed to provide students with a foundation in the Spanish language, as well as an understanding of the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. The program includes courses in grammar, composition, conversation, literature, and culture. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in cultural activities that will enhance their language skills and understanding of the Spanish-speaking world. This degree prepares students for further study in Spanish or for entry-level careers that require proficiency in the language.

Guernica, SpainWhat is Spanish?

Spanish is a Romance language that originated in the Iberian Peninsula and is now spoken as a first language by over 460 million people worldwide. It is the official language of Spain, most Latin American countries, Equatorial Guinea, and the Philippines. Spanish is known for its musicality, and it has contributed significantly to the fields of literature, art, and culture. It uses the Latin alphabet and is written from left to right. Spanish has many dialects, which can vary significantly in vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar, but the standard form of Spanish is based on the dialect spoken in the region around Madrid, known as Castilian Spanish.

Is Studying Spanish Right for Me?

An Associate of Arts degree in Spanish can benefit a wide range of individuals who have an interest in the Spanish language and culture. For instance, individuals who are planning to pursue a career in fields such as international business, healthcare, education, social work, or law enforcement may benefit from this degree as it can enhance their communication skills and cultural competence in Spanish-speaking contexts. Additionally, individuals who plan to travel, study abroad, or engage in cross-cultural experiences may find the degree useful in developing their language proficiency and understanding of the Spanish-speaking world. Overall, anyone who wants to improve their Spanish language skills and cultural knowledge can benefit from an Associate of Arts degree in Spanish.

There are several key traits and skills that can make someone a good fit for studying Spanish, including:

  • An interest in language learning and appreciation for diverse cultures.
  • Strong communication skills
  • Good memory and attention to detail
  • Curiosity and open-mindedness
  • Dedication and persistence
  • Creativity and flexibility
  • Patience and empathy

Overall, a combination of linguistic, cognitive, and socio-cultural skills and traits can make someone a successful Spanish learner and a culturally competent global citizen.

Spanish Degree

spanish dictionary page with spansish words

The Associate in Arts in Spanish for Transfer degree provides a linguistic study of the language and an in-depth look into the culture of the Spanish-speaking world.

Spanish Tracks

 

BC students walking and talking on campus
Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

translator with headset on laptopSpanish Careers

An Associate in Arts in Spanish can open a variety of career paths in which Spanish language skills and cultural knowledge are valued. Some examples of careers that may be available to graduates with an associate degree in Spanish include:

  • Bilingual customer service representative
  • Interpreter or translator
  • Language teacher or tutor
  • International business or trade specialist
  • Cultural ambassador or program coordinator
  • Social worker or community outreach coordinator
  • Healthcare professional, such as a nurse or medical assistant
  • Law enforcement officer or legal assistant
  • Travel or tourism industry professional
  • Freelance writer or journalist.

In addition, an Associate of Arts degree in Spanish can serve as a foundation for further studies in Spanish or related fields, such as literature, linguistics, cultural studies, or education, which can lead to more advanced career opportunities in academia, research, or specialized fields. Overall, the skills and knowledge gained through an associate degree in Spanish can be valuable in a variety of industries and contexts, where intercultural communication and global awareness are essential.

Transfer Pathways

Graduates with an Associate in Arts in Spanish for Transfer from Bakersfield College may choose to continue their education at a university to earn a 4-year degree. Students with an Associate in Arts for Transfer degree “are guaranteed admission with junior standing somewhere in the CSU system and given priority admission consideration to their local CSU campus or to a program that is deemed similar to their community major” (Bakersfield College Catalog, Educational Options). See your Counselor and/or a Transfer Specialist for specific questions, options, and opportunities.


Academic Department: Foreign Language

Career & Learning Pathway: Arts, Communication, and Humanities (ACH) Pathway

Courses: Spanish (SPAN)


Not sure where to start? Let us help.

Meet with a Counselor

Take the right classes to meet your education and career goals. Create your Comprehensive Student Education Plan (CSEP) with your Counselor or Ed. Advisor.
Call (661) 395-4421.

Not sure about your career path?

Take the career quiz to discover the perfect career based on your personality type and interests.