We invite you to discover the rich language and cultural offerings of the Department of Spanish and Portuguese at UC Santa Barbara. Our majors and minors provide opportunities to study Spanish, Portuguese, and related literatures and cultures in depth. The department also hosts a wide range of events, lectures, and cultural activities throughout the year—all announced on our website. Come explore the languages that connect communities across the world.
The Benefits of Learning Spanish and Portuguese
Broadened Career Opportunities
Spanish and Portuguese are two of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Proficiency in either—or both—opens doors to careers in international business, diplomacy, education, healthcare, translation, and beyond. Employers across the globe value multilingual professionals who can communicate effectively with diverse populations.
Deeper Cultural Understanding
Learning these languages allows you to engage meaningfully with the rich and diverse cultures of the Hispanic and Lusophone worlds. You gain direct access to literature, film, music, and traditions that would otherwise remain distant through translation. This cultural literacy fosters empathy, global awareness, and personal enrichment.
Enhanced Cognitive and Academic Skills
Studying languages like Spanish and Portuguese strengthens cognitive abilities such as memory, problem-solving, and multitasking. It also improves your understanding of grammar and vocabulary, which can boost performance in other academic fields and sharpen your communication skills in your native language.