Beginning this fall, Fairmont State University will offer Spanish courses fully online for students who wish to pursue a major or minor in the foreign language.

“There is a need both locally and throughout the state for increased access to high quality Spanish language education and online courses,” Laura Guglani, Assistant Professor of Spanish and Spanish Education, said. “At the same time, there is a strong demand for well-qualified bilingual employees that is not being met.”

Guglani teaches all 3000-level and 4000-level Spanish courses at Fairmont State, and coordinates the Spanish program at all levels, beginner through advanced. She hopes that the newly-offered online format will attract both in-state and out-of-state students as well as those who need some flexibility.

“This program can benefit students who are seeking online learning options to accommodate their work or family schedules, transportation needs or geographical location,” said Guglani.

Students who wish to acquire Spanish language skills or become bilingual can enroll in individual courses or earn credits toward a Spanish major or minor, as well as toward the University’s Spanish Education major. All courses are offered synchronously via WebEx. While there is no study abroad requirement, there are a number of options still offered for those students who are interested.

According to Guglani, earning a degree in Spanish can complement a range of career fields from education and business to tourism and government.

“Spanish is the second most spoken language in the United States,” she said. “Studying Spanish opens countless new opportunities to explore the world, to experience new cultures and to meet new people.”

The fully-online Spanish program will begin during the Fall 2023 semester, and student applications are still being accepted. For more information, email Guglani at Laura.Guglani@fairmontstate.edu or visit www.fairmontstate.edu/academics/programs/spanish.aspx. To apply to Fairmont State University, visit www.fairmontstate.edu/apply.aspx. The application deadline for Fall 2023 is August 11.