Spanish & Hispanic Studies

¡Bienvenidos! The Department of Spanish and Hispanic Studies at Howard Payne offers students a well-rounded, enriching Christian education with regard to the Spanish language and Hispanic literature and culture. Aside from basic elementary and intermediate courses, advanced classes in conversation, composition, literature and culture and civilization of both Spain and Spanish America are offered. All of these practical and useful courses are taught to students who desire to become proficient in the Spanish language and gain cultural knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world. Additionally, having the ability to communicate in Spanish and be multicultural is an added benefit since many prospective employers seek candidates who are able to communicate with a broader range of people in their respective communities and beyond. 

The department offers exciting extracurricular opportunities for students to enjoy such as regional field trips to area cities such as San Antonio, Fort Worth or El Paso where there are high concentrations of Hispanic cultural events and celebrations. Additional activities include the Amigos Unidos Club, the Spanish coffee hour La hora del café, Spanish internships and opportunities for international travel to countries such as Spain and Costa Rica. We also celebrate very special events of the Hispanic world such as El día de los muertos (Day of the Dead) as well as recognize the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15-October 15.

We hope that you will consider becoming part of a tight-knit group of students at HPU, and if you decide to minor in Spanish, you will cross paths with other students who have the same aspirations of communicating and being proficient in a second language. It is not only useful and practical in a global society, but impressive and beautiful to have the ability to speak with others from around the world!

Rooted in Howard Payne University’s Christ-centered mission, the Department of Spanish and Hispanic Studies challenges students to approach language and culture with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to ethical engagement. Students are encouraged to use their knowledge and skills in ways that foster understanding, build bridges across communities, and positively impact the lives of others. By combining linguistic proficiency and cultural insight with Christian values, graduates are prepared to lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and make meaningful contributions in an increasingly interconnected world.

To learn more about the values that guide the Howard Payne University community, explore our Core Values.

The Amigos Unidos Club at Howard Payne is comprised of students who have an interest in the Spanish language and Hispanic culture. We sponsor activities that promote understanding and goodwill among different ethnic groups and enhance creativity through diversity. The club sponsors films, festivals, activities and travel to provide authentic Hispanic cultural experiences and to disseminate the traditions and customs of the Spanish-speaking community. We also enjoy fellowship by sponsoring the Spanish coffee hour, La hora del café. During La hora, students gather to learn about Hispanic culture, play entertaining and interesting games, meet other students, practice helpful Spanish words and phrases, and enjoy delicious refreshments and snacks. We invite you to take part in this fun activity with Amigos Unidos! As always, you do not need to speak Spanish in order to join this special group.

The Amigos Unidos Club also strives to achieve the following:

1. To promote peace through understanding among all people of different ethnicities.
2. To seek creativity through diversity and to improve and expand upon the efforts towards
   diversity awareness.
3. To celebrate Hispanic culture and endorse interest in the study of Spanish.
4. To engage in cultural activities and participate in services to our community.

If you are interested in becoming a member of Amigos Unidos please contact Dr. Danny Brunette-López, sponsor of the club, at 325-646-8176 or via email at dbrunette@hputx.edu.

¡Gracias y bienvenidos!

Spanish Minor ................................................................................................................. 18 hours
For full details regarding a Spanish minor or major, view the HPU catalog, pages 138; 240-241.