• the ability to understand standard spoken Spanish (listening comprehension)
• the ability to speak Spanish correctly and fluently (conversation)
• the ability to read and understand written Spanish (comprehension and summary of written texts)
• the ability to write Spanish accurately (composition).

Students will also be exposed to the geography, history, economy, politics, customs, art, lifestyle and other aspects of contemporary Spain and Spanish-speaking countries. A pass or a better grade at Advanced level in Spanish is required for those students intending to read a B.A. in Spanish and Latin American Studies at Honours, General or Subsidiary level.

Why study Spanish?

Spanish is the world’s third largest language after Chinese and English. A degree in Spanish Studies and fluency in the language opens up the possibility of employment in a range of jobs in both the public and private sectors. Those who have in mind to take up a teaching or a translator’s career may also opt for a postgraduate degree upon completion of their first degree in this area of studies. 

The Intermediate Level Course

Students choosing Spanish at Intermediate Level have 2 hours of lecturing a week. During the First Year lectures are targeted to consolidate and develop the students' fluency and accuracy in the language. Towards the end of the First Year, preparation starts to study one prescribed text. This is done during the Second Year apart from practicing other language skills. 

A pass in Spanish at SEC level is an asset to study the subject further.

The Advanced Level Course

We provide 5 hours of lectures and 1 tutorial per week for the Advanced Level course in Spanish. The four language skills, namely listening, reading, writing and speaking, are practiced during lecturing hours. One of the main aims of this course is to consolidate and develop the students' fluency and accuracy in the language. Besides, one lecture a week is dedicated to literature whereby students study one prescribed text during First year and another literary work during Second Year. One lecture is dedicated to cultural aspects on a weekly basis.

Lectures are carried out in the target language. In this way, students get the opportunity to practice Spanish regularly. A variety of textbooks are used to suit the needs of the students. Tests and homework are assigned periodically to assess learning. In addition, there are another 4 hours of consultation for students who require further help on an individual basis.

A pass in Spanish at SEC level is an asset to study the subject further.