Should I Redo Spanish at a Community College After High School?
Allocating time and resources for language education can be a challenging decision, especially when transitioning from high school to community college. The question often arises: if I took three years of Spanish in high school, will I still need to take Spanish courses at a community college to meet degree requirements? This article aims to provide clarity on the matter and offer useful tips for students.
Understanding Requirements at the University of Iowa
Back when I attended the University of Iowa, transferring from high school to college required a different approach to language credits. For example, one year of high school language was deemed equivalent to one semester of college language. Therefore, to meet the four-semester requirement for a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in French, I only needed one semester in college French. However, this system can vary widely across different institutions.
Variations in Community College Language Requirements
The requirements for language credits at community colleges can vary significantly. Not all programs require a language, and even when they do, the specific level of proficiency needed can differ. High school language courses generally do not meet the requirements for college-level language courses, but they can often serve as a basis for testing out of certain prerequisites.
Testing Out of College Language Requirements
One way to potentially bypass certain college language courses is through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). The College Board, known for overseeing Advanced Placement (AP) exams, administers CLEP tests that many colleges use to award college credit. These tests can be a great option if you have extensive knowledge in a particular language. For instance, I was able to test out of two years of college German after only taking three years of German in high school, thanks to living in Germany and speaking the language exclusively.
Can High School Spanish Count?
Assuming you learned what you should have in high school, three years of Spanish should be equivalent to at least one year of college Spanish. However, if your chosen program at a community college requires a specific level of proficiency, you may still need to take additional courses. You can bypass some of these requirements by taking CLEP tests, but it's best to check with the specific college you are planning to attend.
Challenges in College Spanish Classes
For students pursuing a liberal arts degree, it's essential to consider the challenges they might face in college Spanish classes. Many courses are taught by native speakers, which can be beneficial but may also pose difficulties for non-native speakers. Additionally, the textbooks used in college Spanish courses are often seen as inadequate. If the instructors are native speakers and the course materials are subpar, you might want to consider studying a different language to avoid these challenges.
Alternative Language Options
If you are frustrated with high-quality teaching and materials in Spanish courses, you might consider switching to a different language. This could help you save time and possibly make the learning experience more enjoyable. If you wish to continue studying a liberal arts degree, ensure that you are still meeting your academic requirements.
By understanding the requirements and potential alternatives, you can make an informed decision about your language education path. Whether through CLEP tests or alternative language studies, there are several avenues to achieving your educational goals.