Particularly urgent is the need for language specialists in commerce and industry, where humanities students now compete very favorably for positions, especially if they possess another skill that might have immediate practical application. Portuguese and Spanish are languages used by large sectors of both the industrialized and the less-industrialized world. Their importance will continue into the foreseeable future, and knowing one of them not only will make life more interesting but also can enhance chances for a successful career. Students who have had language instruction prior to entering Ohio State must take a placement test for assignment to the appropriate level. The major program in Spanish consists of not fewer than 50 hours of courses at the 400 level and above.
Courses fall into three general categories-orientation, core, and electives.
In most cases, students are required to take a minimum number of courses in each category but are allowed sufficient latitude, in consultation with an adviser, to design their own programs in order to pursue special interests. Prospective majors should visit the Spanish Advising Center as early as possible in their careers. In no case should students take courses on the assumption that they may be counted toward the major. Language study is today a field undergoing major changes and improvements. The department is constantly seeking to respond to these changes by updating its instructional programs.