Spanish

Spanish is a truly global language, spoken by more than 400 million people around the world. Taught through interactive language classes, Spanish is not only accessible in the initial stages of learning, it is also richly rewarding for those interested in the more advanced subtleties of linguistic study. In tandem with learning to communicate effectively in Spanish, a combination of lectures, tutorials and group work enables you to pursue your own readings of and reflections upon works by major authors. This will deepen your knowledge of Hispanic culture, as well as sharpening your critical faculties. Opportunities will be available to study Portuguese. We accept absolute beginners (taught separately in first year) and non-beginners.

We strongly encourage our students to spend a year abroad as part of their degree. Studying abroad is a valuable experience, which enables you to perfect your language skills and immerse yourself in a different culture. Alternatively, if you wish to study more than one language, with a year abroad, consider DN541 Modern Languages.

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We aim to train you in the four main skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. A complementary objective is to focus on the analytical study and understanding of Hispanic literatures and cultures. Students have the opportunity to study for an Erasmus year in Spain, Latin America or Portugal.

First Year

Modules include: Intensive Beginners’ Spanish 1A & Intensive ab initio Spanish 1B OR Spanish Language 1A & Spanish Language 1B • Study Skills • Hispanic Cultures and Societies • Reading Hispanic Texts • Portuguese and Catalan electives

Second & Final Year

Modules include: Spanish Language 2A • Spanish Language 2B • Latin American Literature & Culture • Modern Novel • Film • Contemporary Spanish Film and Visual Art • Commercial Spanish • Electives, including Portuguese Language

Spanish is taught in lectures and classes and there is an emphasis on independent study.

Assessments are varied and include end-of-trimester examinations, coursework, presentations and projects.

We operate exchanges with several partner institutions in Spain, Latin America and Portugal, including: • Universidad de Deusto, Bilbao • Universidad de Valencia • Universidad de Castilla La Mancha • Universidad de Salamanca • Universidad de Olavide, Sevilla • Universidad de Granada • Universidad de Valladolid • Universidad de Cáceres • Universidad de Zaragoza • Universidad Complutense, Madrid • PUC Santiago (Chile) • Universidad de Montevideo (Uruguay) • Universidad Tec de Monterrey (Campus Querétaro), México

Places may be limited, with preference given to those with higher results.

Our graduates are flexible, articulate and employable people who enjoy careers in: Civil Service, Journalism, Banking and Business, Teaching, Tourism and Communications.

Our graduates are also eligible to apply for the MA in Modern Languages and other taught Masters offered by UCD in Languages and Linguistics. MLitt and PhD programmes are also available. 

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET


• Open Learning Entry Route


• Mature Entry Route


• DARE Entry Route


• HEAR Entry Route


• University Access

By joining the UCD College of Arts and Humanities you will be part of a vibrant community of students and faculty who are committed to creating a more sustainable, just and equitable future. Our courses are designed to equip students with the best education in their chosen arts and humanities subjects. Our research and teaching and learning connect with many of the SDGs, most notably:

• SDG 4: Quality Education -Promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

• SDG 5: Gender Equality - Advances gender equality by addressing social norms, histories, and cultural practices that contribute to gender disparities.

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities - Encourages understanding and action against social, economic, and political inequalities.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities - Enhances cultural understanding and heritage preservation, fostering sustainable communities.

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - Promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions through critical inquiry into human rights, ethics, and governance.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - Encourages global partnerships and collaboration by fostering international understanding and dialogue.

Our programmes equip students with critical thinking, empathy, and cultural awareness, essential for addressing complex global challenges.