Program Overview

Language is fundamental to our thought, our relationships, and our civilisations. Through language we transmit knowledge, from inviting someone for coffee, to promoting the latest scientific theory, to settling global political disputes.

There is a vibrant and significant global Spanish-speaking population out there, Spanish being the second most spoken native language. Spanish will open the door to many cultures and people who speak it as a second language, and will make you a particularly valuable asset to employers wishing to trade with Spain and Latin America. Spanish constitutes a valuable personal and professional asset, as it has become an important economic factor in the business world.

On our course you’ll become highly proficient in Spanish and will be able to study up to a further two of the modern languages taught at Essex; French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Mandarin Chinese. These languages can be studied alongside the language expert modules which cover a range of cultural and professional skills.

For most of our languages, we offer modules in all six different levels recognised by the Common European Framework. With two modules completed in Spanish each year, you are expected to reach Mastery level in the language by the end of our course, and are also encouraged to gain confidence in one or two other languages of your choice. As well as gaining fluency in Spanish, you become proficient in a broad range of its practical use, from professional translation to creative writing.

We also offer a month-long summer course with fees paid for by us if you start a language from scratch via the intensive route.