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When deciding on the right undergraduate degree, you will want to ensure the program aligns with your goals and aspirations. This is especially true for students who want to know the main differences between a translation vs. a language degree in Spanish. Below, we detail key distinctions for each degree, as well as why Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ is the right choice for your future.

3 Key Differences Between Each Program

1. Objectives of the Degree

Though both programs involve the use of the Spanish language, the overall objectives of each degree differ. The goal of the B.A. in Spanish is to allow students to explore and analyze the rich history of the Spanish language and culture. Along with that, students also develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, helping them gain an in-depth knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world.

On the other hand, the Spanish translation degree focuses on equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the evolving language services industry. This is achieved through engaging with a diverse range of text types and genres to build  translation literacy, training on language and cultural mediation, hands-on familiarity with various translation technologies, and practical experiences designed to support meaningful professional growth. 

2. Coursework and Electives

When assessing a Spanish language vs. translation degree, it can be important to analyze the course requirements to see which best align with your goals and preferences. 

Before starting the B.A. in Spanish, many students possess a strong proficiency in the language, but it is required to contact a Spanish faculty advisor in the Department of Modern and Classical Language Studies for individualized language placement.  

Additionally, the major requirements for the Spanish B.A. include the following:

• SPAN 38211 – Spanish Grammar and Composition
• SPAN 38213 – Spanish Reading and Conversation
• SPAN 38421 – Civilization of Spain
• SPAN 38424 – Culture and Civilization of Latin America
• SPAN 48215 – Advanced Spanish Composition and Conversation

For the Spanish translation degree, students are required to declare and complete a minimum of 18 credit hours in a minor, certificate, or second major, subject to department faculty advisor approval. This approval must be in a field related to business, technology, healthcare, or any other field where there is a growing need for translators. 

Major requirements for the B.S. in Spanish translation include:ENG 20002 – Introduction to Technical Writing

• ENG 30063 – Professional Writing (which can be taken in place of ENG 20002)
• MCLS 30420 – Foreign Language and Culture Studies
• TRST 20009 – Multilingual Information Lifecycle
• TRST 30230 – Approaches to Translation
• TRST 30330 – Cross-Language Mediation

For more information about additional course requirements and how they best align with your prerequisites, please contact our team directly.

3. Career Outcomes

Upon graduating with a B.A. in Spanish, students are well-prepared for careers in education, international relations, and cultural engagement, to name a few. Some potential career paths include:

• Spanish language teacher
• Cultural ambassador
• Language program coordinator

On the other hand, those who graduate with a degree in Spanish translation tend to pursue roles such as:

• Professional translator, editor, or reviewer 
• Localization specialist
• Project manager

These roles are often part of areas like global business, media, healthcare, and more.  

Pursue Your Undergraduate Degree at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½

Whether you are considering a translation degree or a language degree in Spanish, know that our passionate team is here to provide you with the tools necessary to excel in the field of your choosing.

For those interested in either our Spanish translation or language degree, request more information or apply online today.