Why Study Spanish?
Spanish is the second most widely spoken first language in the world, used extensively across the Americas, Spain, and many other regions. Its global reach makes it a valuable language for business, politics, and cultural exchange.
At Trent, students can take introductory and intermediate Spanish courses designed to build communication skills and cultural understanding. The following is a list of courses that can be found in the Academic Calendar. Please note that availability may change based on faculty scheduling. For more details, please see the Course Listing link, and check the Academic Timetable for current offerings.
Introductory courses (SPAN 1001H and 1002H/1000Y) are open to complete beginners, with a focus on developing oral and written proficiency while exploring Spanish and Latin American cultures.
SPAN-1001H- Introduction to Spanish I: An introduction to understanding, speaking, reading, and writing designed for students with limited or no knowledge of the language. The goal of the course is to encourage students to work towards developing control of everyday vocabulary and basic forms and constructions. Students judged by the instructor to be fluent in Spanish may not receive credit for this course. Not open to students with credit for HSST 1000Y or SPAN 1000Y. Equivalent to HSST 1001H.
SPAN-1002H- Introduction to Spanish II: Builds on the knowledge gained in SPAN 1001H and continues to encourage students to work towards developing control of everyday vocabulary and basic forms and constructions. Seminar activities stress a communicative approach, which is reinforced through written exercises. Prerequisite: SPAN 1001H or permission of instructor. Students judged by the instructor to be fluent in Spanish may not receive credit for this course. Not open to students with credit for HSST 1000Y or SPAN 1000Y. Equivalent to HSST 1002H.
Intermediate courses (SPAN 2001H and 2002H) are ideal for students who have completed first-year Spanish or have prior experience, such as high school courses. A brief consultation with a Spanish instructor can help determine the appropriate level.
SPAN-2001H- Intermediate Spanish I: Intended for students with prior knowledge of the Spanish language (two years of secondary school Spanish; travel or exchange programs), the course builds on the knowledge and use of the language acquired in SPAN 1001H and 1002H, or equivalent, with a focus on review of grammar structures and oral practice. Prerequisite: SPAN 1000Y or 1002H or permission of instructor. Not open to students with credit for HSST 2000Y or SPAN 2000Y. Equivalent to HSST 2001H.
SPAN-2002H- Intermediate Spanish II: This course builds on the knowledge and use of the Spanish language acquired in SPAN 2001H or equivalent. Designed for students who wish to further develop their reading, writing, and conversation skills in preparation for SPAN 2501H, 2502H, or other areas of study. Prerequisite: SPAN 2001H or permission of instructor. Not open to students with credit for HSST 2000Y or SPAN 2000Y. Equivalent to HSST 2002H.
Advanced learners can enroll in SPAN 3001H, which builds on second-year coursework or equivalent experience.
SPAN-3001H- Advanced Spanish Grammar: A practical course that aims to perfect language skills at an advanced level through practice in grammar, conversation, writing, and comprehension. Students continue to develop communicative competence by participating in interactive exercises and conversation. Prerequisite: SPAN 2500Y or 2502H or permission of instructor. Not open to students with credit for HSST 3000Y. Equivalent to HSST 3001H.
SPAN-3500H- Reading Spanish: This course teaches students how to read in Spanish. Students are presented with weekly deconstructions of the language to help them recognize a variety of grammar elements. This knowledge is then used to facilitate text comprehension. The course is taught in English to upper-year undergraduate and graduate students. Prerequisite: 10.0 university credits.
Students with Spanish language skills are encouraged to take advantage of Study Abroad opportunities in Spanish-speaking countries. or consider the Spanish- Undergraduate Certificate. Spanish pairs well with many programs, especially Anthropology, International Development Studies, History, Politics, and Nursing.
Trent in Bolivia
The Trent in Bolivia program (TiB) is a collaborative undertaking for the Global Justice and Development Studies Department and the Languages & Linguistics program. The program boasts a semester-long study abroad experience in Sucre, Bolivia, with our partner institution, Universidad San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca (USFX). Students will refine their Spanish language skills while learning about issues like resource extraction and development, Indigenous movements and rights, and struggles for gender equality, at the second oldest university in the Americas.
To learn more about our Trent in Bolivia program, download our brochure.