Department of Hispanic Studies

The Department of Hispanic Studies aims to develop students’ Spanish language skills, to deepen their understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures and literatures domestically and abroad, to sharpen their critical thinking, and to heighten their awareness of their role as local and global citizens in a pluralistic society. The department offers a major with three specialty options and a minor in Spanish.

Hispanic Studies Department Policy for Spanish Language Placement

Students with previous experience with Spanish language in the classroom and who wish to continue with Spanish at UK are placed according to their previous studies. Recommendations for placement into Spanish courses at UK for students who have already studied Spanish in middle or high school are as follows:

If student has no previous experience: SPA 101;
If a student has 1-3 years of previous study: SPA 103;
If a student has 4 or more years of study (but not AP): SPA 203;
If a student is currently taking AP Spanish Language or Literature or has not received their exam score yet: SPA 203 and contact the Spanish department after score comes in for possible change;
If a student has taken AP Spanish Language or AP Spanish Literature and has received their scores: AP Score of 1-2: SPA 203; AP Score of 3-5: see UK AP/IB chart;
If a student has taken IB Spanish: place according to UK AP/IB chart;
Is a student is bilingual or a Heritage Speaker: contact Dr. Ruth Brown;
If a student has earned the Seal of Biliteracy: SPA 203 unless there are other measures to support a more advanced placement (AP scores/IB equivalency /Heritage speaking status).

If you have any questions regarding the use and scope of the placement exam, please contact the Hispanic Studies department directly at 859-257-2565.