Spanish and Portuguese | College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

students engaging in conversation in a classroom setting

Welcome. Bienvenidos. Bem-vindos.

Strong writing. Clear thinking. Endless opportunities.

Why Iowa?

Renowned faculty, wide-ranging courses, and real-world skills that open doors on campus and beyond. Whether you’re exploring culture, honing your writing, or preparing for your career, Iowa will equip you to succeed.

Study here

red-haired instructor at the front of class

Start your language journey

Studying Spanish or Portuguese at Iowa opens the door to global experiences, powerful communication skills, and a deeper understanding of culture.

Start your language journey

Advance with global insight

Our graduate programs offer rigorous training in research, teaching, and cultural analysis—preparing you for careers in academia, education, global service, and beyond.

Advance with global insight

Experts who inspire learning

Iowa’s faculty in Spanish and Portuguese are nationally recognized scholars, writers, and educators whose work spans continents and disciplines.

Experts who inspire learning

See yourself here

Are you drawn to Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking cultures? Want to build your language skills? Join a community where you’ll explore language, culture, and global perspectives—on campus and beyond.

Visit

Carolina Duenas standing in Iowa colors in front of a tree

My language education will positively impact my future career as a doctor, enabling me to communicate with Spanish-speaking patients, foster trust, and provide culturally sensitive care. It will also open opportunities to work in diverse communities, address health-care disparities, and promote equitable care.
^{- Carolina Duenas}

Student Ambassador Program

Write your story

Build knowledge. Explore ideas. Create original work. Distinguish yourself through research and expression. You’re going places—and your story starts here.

Apply

# 1

Language studied

Spanish is the most-studied non-English language in the U.S.

A group of students at the Plaza de España in Seville

480M +

Spanish speakers worldwide

picture of a woman walking up stairs painted to look like piano keys

230M +

Portuguese speakers worldwide

News and announcements

New! Spanish Department Pop-Up Online Store

Thursday, March 5, 2026

We’re excited to announce our pop-up online store for students and faculty! You can now purchase t-shirts, crewnecks, and hoodies with our department logo. Available now through Sunday, March 22nd for pick-up at Phillips Hall or direct shipping. Check it out by clicking the title above!

Pilar Marcé Career Connector Spotlight

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

The Department of Spanish and Portuguese is proud to celebrate Pilar Marcé, Associate Professor of Instruction, who has been recognized by the Pomerantz Career Center as a Career Connector. This distinction honors campus partners who invest in their professional growth to better support students and who demonstrate leadership and dedication to student career success. We are grateful for Pilar's commitment to helping our students connect their studies in Spanish with meaningful professional pathways. Click the title above to read more!

Department of Spanish and Portuguese Students Awarded UI Study Abroad Merit Scholarships

Friday, February 6, 2026

Congratulations to the students in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese who received merit-based scholarships from UI Study Abroad! Click the title above to read more!