2025 Best Online Spanish Degrees
Online bachelor's in Spanish degrees provide flexible language and cultural education, covering Spanish linguistics, literature, and cultural studies. These programs enhance your proficiency and prepare you for careers in education, translation, and international business.
Key Takeaways:
- Arizona State University is the most popular online school, with 50,637 distance learners.
- The University of Arizona offers generous average financial aid packages of $15,279.
- Florida International University, hosting an online Spanish bachelor's degree, boasts an impressive retention rate of 91%.
Our ranking methodology for online college programs emphasizes accredited options, prioritizing highest online enrollment at the undergraduate level.
List Of Accredited Online Spanish Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University, Online | $32,193 | |
| Florida International University | 11,900 | $16,997 |
| Oregon State University | 9,911 | $11,760 |
| University of Arizona | 6,616 | $15,750 |
| Eastern New Mexico University - Main Campus | 2,022 | $6,174 |
| Indiana University - East | 1,876 | $22,043 |
| Valdosta State University | 1,781 | $8,970 |
| Clayton State University | 1,651 | $5,220 |
| Idaho State University | 1,616 | $25,214 |
| Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis | 1,505 | $33,646 |
| University of Houston - Victoria | 1,341 | $18,688 |
| Northern State University | 1,083 | $10,642 |
| Mercy University | 1,043 | $21,800 |
| Wayland Baptist University | 726 | $13,530 |
2025 Best Online Spanish Degrees
- Online Enrollment: 50,637 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $32,193
- Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)
Online degree:
Why we like them: ASU's online enrollment is unparalleled, featuring 50,637 online learners at just the undergraduate level, positioning this online school in the top 1% nationally. This extensive digital campus ensures you will have access to a vast community of peers The Spanish bachelor's degree online requires 120 credits, with each course lasting 7.5 weeks. You will explore an array of subjects including Spanish literature, mass media, politics, and film, enhancing both your linguistic and cultural competencies. While the degree itself does not provide teacher or translator certification, it prepares you for such certifications.
- Online Enrollment: 11,900 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $16,997
- Location: Miami (FL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: If we compare FIU's online enrollment numbers against other universities nationwide, it ranks in the top 2% for the largest online student populations, indicating a large virtual community that provides extensive networking and collaborative opportunities. The program's curriculum covers a broad spectrum of Spanish language studies — from basic grammar to advanced literature and applied courses in business Spanish. This comprehensive scope ensures you are well-prepared for diverse career paths upon graduation.
- Online Enrollment: 9,911 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,760
- Location: Corvallis (OR)
Online degree:
Why we like them: With 9,911 students engaging in remote education, OSU is in the top 2% of schools with the highest online student population nationwide. The online Spanish bachelor’s program from OSU is well-structured, requiring 180 quarter credits which are equivalent to 120 semester credits, accommodating the quarter-term system where each class spans 11 weeks. You benefit from world-class faculty who bring their expertise and native-speaking proficiency to the virtual classroom. We are further impressed by OSU's 82% recommendation rate from alums.
- Online Enrollment: 6,616 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $15,750
- Locations: Tucson (AZ) (and 1 other)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UA is so high on our list due to its enrollment of 6,616 online students. This places the institution in the top 4% of universities with the highest number of students engaged in online learning. The Spanish degree program goes into Hispanic literature, linguistics, translation, and even some Portuguese. The program prepares students for careers in teaching, communications, international relations, and more, while enhancing Spanish language proficiency. Ccourses, such as Spanish for Business and Medical Translation, provide practical, real-world language skills.
- Online Enrollment: 2,022 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $6,174
- Location: Portales (NM)
Online degree:
Why we like them: ENMU hosts thousands of online students, making it a very popular school and a great choice to pursue a Spanish bachelor's program online. ENMU’s unique program structure, which includes the convenience of real-time lectures through platforms like Panopto, supports interactive and engaged learning. Additional features include the ability to participate in a Summer Immersion Institute or a month-long immersion program in Sololá, Guatemala, enriching your understanding through practical, real-world application. Plus, ENMU has a 91% recommendation rate, showcasing high student satisfaction.
- Online Enrollment: 1,876 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $22,043
- Location: Richmond (IN)
Online degree:
Why we like them: IU East's Spanish program features four targeted tracks: Spanish for Business, Spanish for Medical Communication, Hispanic Cultures for Travel and Tourism, and Hispanic Cultures in the U.S. Such a variety allows you to tailor your education to specific career paths, enhancing both cultural and professional competencies. Another critical advantage is the transfer-friendly policy, allowing you to transfer up to 60 credits from previous institutions, streamlining your path to graduation.
- Online Enrollment: 1,781 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $8,970
- Location: Valdosta (GA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Valdosta's Spanish program curriculum designed to provide you with a strong foundation in Spanish language and culture. With 41 credits required, the course ensures thorough coverage of essential subjects. The program is housed under the World Languages and Cultures track, featuring specialized coursework that can enhance your language proficiency and cultural understanding. We also think that the high recommendation rate of 90% makes Valdosta a compelling choice for your online education.
- Online Enrollment: 1,651 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $5,220
- Location: Morrow (GA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: CSU hosts well over a thousand online undergraduates while maintaining an exceptionally high recommendation rate of 93%, reflecting widespread satisfaction among graduates. Its collaborative Spanish program within the University System of Georgia emphasizes Spanish conversation, composition, literature, and applied language skills for professional fields such as healthcare, law enforcement, and public service. Students gain practical experience through community involvement and develop specialized vocabulary for professional settings, enhancing both language proficiency and cultural understanding.
- Online Enrollment: 1,616 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $25,214
- Location: Pocatello (ID)
Online degree:
Why we like them: ISU has an online enrollment of 1,616 students, placing it in the top 26% for online higher education institutions nationally. This indicates a dynamic and engaged virtual community, conducive to an enriching academic experience. It also has a positive recommendation rate of 86%, further strengthening its reputation. The Spanish program provides an immersive language experience with a focus on Spanish-speaking cultures, literature, and advanced language skills. Graduates find careers in education, translation, and international relations.
- Online Enrollment: 1,505 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $33,646
- Location: Indianapolis (IN)
Online degree:
Why we like them: IUPUI has a recommendation rate of 95%, suggesting a high level of willingness among graduates to endorse the program. IUPUI offers an online Spanish degree with specialized tracks in areas like Business, Medical Communication, and Tourism, allowing students to apply Spanish skills in professional settings. The program emphasizes language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and professional competence, preparing graduates for careers in fields like translation, public relations, and human resources.
- Online Enrollment: 1,341 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $18,688
- Location: Victoria (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UHV excels in online enrollment, ranking in the top 30% of universities with the highest online student populations. UHV offers an online Spanish program tailored to leverage its unique cultural strengths. Situated in a region with a high concentration of native Spanish speakers, UHV provides an enriched language-learning context that is invaluable for students. The Spanish program emphasizes the intricate connections between European, indigenous, African, and Asian influences in Spanish and Latin American cultures, fostering a deeply nuanced understanding of the language and its contexts.
- Online Enrollment: 1,083 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $10,642
- Location: Aberdeen (SD)
Online degree:
Why we like them: With 1,083 students enrolled in online programs, NSU demonstrates a robust commitment to accessible education, placing it in the 65th percentile for online enrollment compared to other institutions. NSU's online Spanish degree program offers a multidisciplinary approach, often integrating Spanish language studies with cultural, historical, and literary education. The curriculum is designed to develop your language skills while providing a deep understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures.
- Online Enrollment: 1,043 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $21,800
- Location: Dobbs Ferry (NY)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Mercy ranks highly due to its substantial online enrollment of 1,043 students. Mercy's Spanish program includes courses that master written and spoken Spanish and explore Hispanic literature and culture in-depth, including film, music, and visual art. This curriculum is enriched by dynamic lectures, events throughout the academic year, and internship opportunities at prominent Hispanic cultural institutions and business organizations in New York City.
- Online Enrollment: 726 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,530
- Location: Plainview (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: WBU's Spanish degree's focus is on language proficiency and cultural literacy, tailored for those pursuing secondary school teacher certification. The program includes a comprehensive curriculum of Spanish language, literature, and pedagogy, and prepares students to meet state certification requirements. We especially appreciate how students benefit from the ability to customize their education with electives alongside various certifications.
Online Bachelor's Degrees in Spanish
Earning a Spanish bachelor's degree online is an ideal way to prepare for careers in international business, journalism, education, public relations, marketing, and especially as interpreters and translators. This degree helps graduates develop the Spanish language skills and cultural knowledge that will aid them in Spanish-speaking workplaces, here and abroad.
Online Spanish programs usually lead to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Spanish, which typically requires the completion of 120 credit hours. The coursework establishes a strong foundation in the language, culture, and literature of Spanish-speaking countries, giving learners a broader, interdisciplinary view of the Spanish-speaking world.
To aid students in developing proficiency in speaking and comprehending the language, most upper-level classes are in Spanish only. Graduates are expected to reach advanced levels of speaking, reading, and writing proficiency in the Spanish language.
In addition to Spanish major courses and electives, degree requirements include a liberal arts core of writing, humanities, fine arts, social science, math, and physical sciences courses. Spanish majors may also be required to complete an internship or to study abroad through an approved partner program. These learning opportunities give students a chance to apply their knowledge of Spanish in real-world situations.
If you'd like to learn more about the most cost-effective online Spanish programs, review our guides to affordable Spanish bachelor's degrees and affordable Spanish master's degrees.
Common Courses in a Spanish Degree
Spanish majors may take introductory and advanced Spanish language courses, as well as courses about Spanish and Latin American history and culture.
Business Spanish
Students taking Business Spanish learn how to use Spanish in the workplace. This may include unique vocabulary terms that may not otherwise be included in most intermediate Spanish classes. The course also covers business etiquette and communication skills, with an emphasis on Spanish-speaking and bilingual work environments.
Conversational Spanish
Conversational Spanish gives students the skills they need to hold conversations in Spanish. Students learn common terms and phrases while developing conversational skills that will enable them to speak with native Spanish speakers. This introductory-level class is designed for students who have no prior knowledge of Spanish.
Spanish Literature
Spanish majors often study not only the language of Spain but also the culture. This class introduces students to works of classic and modern Spanish literature, including novels, poetry, drama, and more. Students strive to gain a deeper understanding of trends and themes in Spanish literature while gaining greater facility with the Spanish language.
Spanish Grammar and Composition
Spanish Grammar and Composition provides students with in-depth instruction on grammar. Students learn how to speak Spanish in a way that is grammatically correct. They also gain written communication skills in this language, which can prepare them for careers that might require Spanish.
What Can You Do With a Spanish Degree?
People with Spanish online degrees may pursue careers as foreign language teachers, translators, and interpreters — all of which require a bachelor's degree, at minimum. Because variations of Spanish are so widely used throughout the U.S. and across Latin American countries, professionals find Spanish language skills valuable in almost any field, from business and tourism to healthcare and social work.
Completing a Spanish online program may qualify you for one of the following occupations:
Interpreters
work to convert information from one language to another. Spanish majors who decide to pursue a career as an interpreter may work to translate English to Spanish or vice versa. This may include in-person and on-the-spot translation in environments like courtrooms, schools, and medical facilities. The demand for interpreters is expected to grow significantly over the next decade, as 20% is three times faster than the U.S. average.
Translators
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lumps interpreters and into a single category, but the roles are distinct. Like interpreters, translators convert messages from one language to another, but instead of focusing on in-person communication, translators primarily focus on written texts and documents. This can include everything from translating poetry and novels to subtitles for videos to important government documents.
High School Teachers
help high school students develop Spanish language skills and introduce them to Spanish culture and Hispanic literature. Spanish teachers may work in either public schools or private schools. Their duties include planning lessons, instructing students, and grading assignments and exams. Additional teaching certifications and licenses may be necessary, depending on the state and institution where the teacher works.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Teachers
instruct students whose first language is not English. This can include students who have moved to the United States from other countries as well as students whose primary home language is not English. These teachers help students develop their speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing skills in English. A Spanish major can be helpful for prospective ESL instructors since it gives individuals the skills to communicate with Spanish-speaking students.
Benefits of an Online Spanish Degree
Pursuing a Spanish degree online has a wide variety of benefits. Perhaps the most important is that you'll develop fluency in the Spanish language. Not only is this a personally and intellectually enriching endeavor, but it can also help you improve your communication skills and even unlock new career opportunities.
A degree in Spanish qualifies you for jobs that require advanced knowledge of Spanish. For example, your degree may lead you to a career in translation and interpretation in the public or private sector. You could also apply your knowledge of Spanish in retail, business, and customer service occupations.
You may also enjoy the benefits of enrolling in a fully online program in Spanish. In general, distance education programs may be more affordable, and they typically offer more flexibility than traditional, on-campus programs. In online courses, you'll access lectures and coursework, participate in class discussions, and submit assignments at your convenience as long as you meet the instructor's deadlines.
However, online learning is not necessarily the best choice for every student. If you feel you require more structure or want more interaction with your instructors and classmates, you may prefer an on-campus program.
Not sure if an online Spanish degree is right for you? Consider some of your many other options, such as an online English degree or an affordable online education degree.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spanish Degrees
How Much Can I Expect To Earn With an Online Degree in Spanish?
Among the career options for graduates with degrees in Spanish are jobs as translators or interpreters, which have a median annual salary of $53,640 (as cited above). Depending on the degree curriculum, graduates may also become licensed high school teachers, who make a median yearly salary of $62,360.
How Is a Degree in a Foreign Language Like Spanish Different From a Degree in Linguistics?
Although both of these degrees may prepare graduates for some similar roles — such as in translation or foreign language teaching positions — a degree in linguistics involves the scientific study of language itself. Linguistics majors study the structure and components of language: sound, words, and sentence formation. Additionally, they delve into the purpose and evolution of language as a whole.
Students majoring in a foreign language, on the other hand, deep-dive into the language, literature, and culture of a country, with the goal of becoming a fluent speaker in that language.
What Can I Do With an Online Degree in Spanish?
People with online degrees in Spanish may pursue careers as foreign language teachers, translators, and interpreters — all of which require a bachelor's degree, at minimum. Because Spanish is so widely spoken, professionals find Spanish language skills useful in almost any occupation, from business and tourism to healthcare and social work.
Becoming a foreign language teacher may be the ambition of most Spanish majors. Those in this role work in elementary, middle, and high schools as well as at the university level and in the private sector. They must plan classes and exams, and employ language learning methodologies which they learn at the bachelor's and master's degree level. Additional teaching certifications and licenses may be necessary, depending on the state and institution where the teacher works.
What Are Next Steps?
After obtaining a bachelor's degree online, students can go on to pursue an online master's degree in Spanish. These degrees come in a variety of forms that build upon a student’s undergraduate education and train them to apply their skills in research and education. Some institutions offer online Master of Arts in Teaching of Languages, while others offer more focused Master of Arts in Spanish degrees, with concentrations in either linguistics or literature. Either online degree prepares a student for job opportunities teaching Spanish at all levels.
Student Reviews of Online Spanish Programs
I loved UAA! I came to UAA after five semesters at another school. I was not expecting to enjoy UAA, but to my surprise, I absolutely adored it. If I had known how much I'd like it, I would have gone there in the first place. I felt that the lower division classes weren't difficult, but that I was able to make them as challenging as I wanted to. For instance, I had to take English 121. I'd already taken upper division English classes and was expecting to be bored, but my professor was wonderful,... Read More
Review Date: 3/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
My overall experience with FSCJ has been decent. I've enjoyed majority of my professors and would take them again if needed. The advisors aren't very helpful. The new FSCJ Student Center has the 'academic requirement's' for your major which breaks down each category so you know what you need in order to complete your degree. I went to an advisor for this. Big mistake!! I have a 'W' on my transcript because I was told I needed a class from a category when in fact I didn't. Upon doing my own research... Read More
Review Date: 8/20/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Weber State University is a diamond in the roughotel. Located in the cozy mountainside of Ogden Utah, this University offers a unique college experience tailored to each individuals needs. Known as a commuter college, Weber State has relatively few student dorms, due to the fact that most people live off-campus. In doing so they are allowed to take on many other responsibilities such as full time jobs, community volunteer service and cut costs on expensive housing fees. Weber is by far most notable... Read More
Review Date: 3/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
UF was a great experience! I feel great pride whenever I see a fellow Gator both locally and internationally as the Gator Nation truly is everywhere. We are currently the number 8th top public university in the nation due to its high standards. The outcome of my education reflected these standards.
Review Date: 3/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Fairmont State University is a wonderful college because students feel connected with their teachers. Classes are so small that it is possible to have a more personal relationship with teachers. This is important because if youre having trouble with an assignment, worried about a test, or not understanding the material, students at FSU are more likely to stay after class and get direct help from their teachers. Also, the tuition is more affordable than others in the state of West Virginia and FSU... Read More
Review Date: 3/13/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
I absolutely loved the Spanish program at UC Davis, the professors all cared about their work and the students. Some professors were more thoughtful, considerate of students not always having the highest level in Spanish, and if you went to office hours they were their to help you get there. You can't expect them to do your work for you but they do care about you learned and growing. Furthermore, there were many courses that I thoroughly enjoyed but that I recognize were homework heavy and that doesn't... Read More
Review Date: 9/28/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I absolutely loved the Spanish program at UC Davis, the professors all cared about their work and the students. Some professors were more thoughtful, considerate of students not always having the highest level in Spanish, and if you went to office hours they were their to help you get there. You can't expect them to do your work for you but they do care about you learned and growing. Furthermore, there were many courses that I thoroughly enjoyed but that I recognize were homework heavy and that doesn't... Read More
Review Date: 9/28/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
The University of Arkansas has many resources and programs available to students. I had some really great professors and a couple that were not as helpful. Generally, it seemed like I could do really well in classes as long as I was able to put in the work and show up to class every day. The last two classes I took were actually graduate level classes, since there were so few undergrad options left. They were both quite challenging, but I managed to get an A in one and a B in the other, which was... Read More
Review Date: 7/17/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I double majored with Spanish and Communications with a concentration in Public Relations. Overall, I would have to say my experience at Marist was amazing! I loved every second of both my degree programs. To start the communications degree was both challenging, but fun. The professors at the time were all awesome. I found that I could come to a number of them for any reason and they would be there to help me out. It helped that Marist had small classes. Therefore, most professor knew all of their... Read More
Review Date: 5/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Ohio University probably costs more than it should, but I couldn't believe I had the professors I did while there. I've never met educators and researchers so supportive and helpful toward me and both my long-term and short term goals. These professors helped me grow personally and professionally. Your degree will not have the most prestige, but if you work hard and are self-motivated you can distinguish yourself at OU. The greater University area itself is a little chaotic. The area is quaint but... Read More
Review Date: 9/28/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
As a future graduate student, I am equipped to handle my upcoming classroom and clinical work because of my experience at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities (UMN-TC). UMN-TC provides all students with unique research opportunities, personable professors, and a balanced course load. As a tier 1 research institution, I was able to receive funding for my student-driven research project, which is called a UROP, while assisting my professor with a bigger project - and anyone can at UMN-TC due to... Read More
Review Date: 6/18/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The professors and students are very diverse and the school has great resources both academic and nonacademic. The facilities offered to the students, such as the university canter and the organizations are quality and taken advantage of by both professors and students.
Review Date: 2/24/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Madison is a great place to go to school because of the combination of great academics and an awesome big college town. The school leads right up to the capital, which allows students to easily stay involved in protests/events happening there (such as the farmer's market on Saturday mornings). There are lots of resources, including student organizations for almost every possibly subject, to help you get involved in what specifically interests you!
Review Date: 3/19/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
My professors were always very helpful and available during their office hours. My experience in the Spanish department was enjoyable. As a non-native speaker, I was encouraged to participate and interact with native speakers in conversation groups. I loved my Humanities department! All of my professors encouraged student participation, class discussions and did not rely solely on lectures. I think the course materials for both programs were well-rounded and enjoyable.
Review Date: 3/12/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The University of California-Santa Barbara is a fantastic school. It is one of the top-ranked public schools in the United States, and it has a lot to offer to students. From my experiences, the professors are always will to help in any way possible and will gladly meet with students during office hours. The education offered at UCSB is superb! Besides the quality of education provided at this school, it is also a great place to be in with scenic views of the ocean. Personally, this was the selling... Read More
Review Date: 11/10/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Portland State is a great place for people who like the city. It is a large school, but after a few semesters you'll get to know the students and professors in your major and it'll start to feel like a smaller community. It's definitely possible to live on campus, but the majority of students commute. The academics are about on-par with what you'd expect from a state school. It's not elite, but you'll get a good education.
Review Date: 1/3/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
UF was everything I could have hoped for and more in an undergraduate program. From the school spirit to the excellent faculty in the classroom, I really felt like my education was worth it. I connected with people who I never would have before, as the school is really trying to stress the importance of diversity. It truly is great to be a Florida Gator!!
Review Date: 5/20/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Although it is a very beautiful campus, there aren't enough things to do around! (So keep that in mind) It's in a small town so everything comes as first come basis. Financial Aid is horrible, they don't have enough for everyone so like I said the first ones are the ones who will get the most opportunities. Overall most people are nice, although since it's a small town there is a little racism (even though they'll deny it). I had a good experience, but I just wished there were more financial help... Read More
Review Date: 3/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Something that I truly loved about NAU is that despite all of the madness that you can find on a college campus, it felt like home to me. I met hundreds of people during my time there and I would have to say that the staff at NAU was always professional, understanding and helpful. My counselor's always had a let's get it done attitude and they really believed in me throughout my years there. If you ever get the change to work with Ed Hood, he is one of my personal favorites!
Review Date: 9/27/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I absolutely loved my time at Ohio State. I always wanted to attend a big school and wanted a typical college experience. My freshman year I made so many friends in my freshman dorm. I spent the rest of my college experience with these same friends. I also made a lot of friends in my major. Ohio State is a big campus, but it never felt big because there were so many student clubs and ways to make friends. I became an RA my sophomore year and I really enjoyed living on campus again as it was so easy... Read More
Review Date: 11/12/2022
Would Recommend: Yes