Spanish
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In all corners of the globe people have become aware of the growing presence and importance of Spanish. With over 400 million people speaking it as a first language, Spanish is now the world’s fourth most-spoken language. It’s not only the official language of Spain, but also of Mexico and much of Central and South America. Along with English, Spanish is set to be one of the dominant languages of the future.
You may be thinking about living or working in a Spanish-speaking country, or perhaps your employer has business links with one. As you hone your language skills, you’ll also be learning more about the rich and varied culture of Spanish-speaking countries, adding to your appreciation of customs and traditions in them.
Where to start in Spanish
If you haven’t studied a language with The Open University before, or have any doubt about the standard of your Spanish, have a look at the taster website for Portales: beginners' Spanish (L194), our beginners’ Spanish course.
If your Spanish is more advanced, try the taster websites for our other courses, to get an idea of the starting level that’s appropriate for you: taster for En rumbo:intermediate Spanish (L140) (for students with a basic knowledge of Spanish); taster for Viento en popa: upper intermediate Spanish (L204) (which extends the language skills developed in En rumbo: intermediate Spanish (L140)); and the taster for A bien puerto: fast forward in Spanish (L314) (which follows on from Viento en popa: upper intermediate Spanish (L204)).
Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.
Degrees
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Business Studies with Spanish
An innovative and accessible introduction to the world of business with a specialism in Spanish, this degree will enable you to pursue a number of different careers from management consultancy to business journalism. -
Humanities with Spanish
This degree allows you to combine courses on the Spanish language and different aspects of the arts – what people thought, made and practised – and their meaning and values in the past and today. -
Modern Language Studies
Combine the study of one or two foreign languages (French, German, Spanish) with the study of English language and linguistics. -
Open degree
The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.
Diplomas
Certificates
Courses in Spanish
See the list of all our individual courses in Spanish.
Postgraduate options
If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Languages.
Spotlight on Spanish
Strategic learning
Learning Spanish helps you gain access into how many millions of people think, feel, live and work. It enables the understanding of Latin American and Spanish newspapers, radio programmes, films, and some of the greatest world literature. Knowledge of Spanish also helps with learning other romance languages such as Italian or French. Improvements in the economy of the Spanish-speaking countries have made Spanish the fourth language on the internet. Business, advertising and tourism are some of the areas where communication is increasingly happening in Spanish.
Got a question?
Contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90
