» Recommended Classes for First-Year Spanish Majors

Here are the classes that we recommend you take during your first year as a Spanish major at Chapman. 

In your first semester, students typically take 12-15 credits (most classes are 3 credits; those with labs are 4). 12 credits are required to be in full-time status.

Introductory Math Requirement

As an incoming first-year student, you must take a math assessment. If you place into Math 100 (Learning and Studying Mathematics for Understanding), then you must enroll in this course in your first year (fall or spring semester). For more information, visit our Math Assessment webpage

General Education Classes

You can choose a General Education (GE) class from any GE category – it’s your choice. In general, the following GE areas are recommended to begin/complete during your first year:

GE Language Study
GE Quantitative Inquiry

Note: Some GE courses may “double count” with your major or minor. Students can share up to 9 credits between major and GE requirements and can share up to 6 credits between minor and GE requirements. Visit the General Education Program site to review the GE policies and see a list of approved courses for each GE area.

You can learn more about general education on our General Education: How it Works page.


Fall Semester

Spanish majors are NOT part of the Block Scheduling program for first-year students in the Fall 2023 semester. This means that you must register yourself into your recommended major courses listed below. You can then build the rest of your schedule around these required major courses.

Spanish majors begin their major/minor study according to the Chapman University language placement policy. Placement testing for Spanish is available on Canvas. Spanish majors/minors should take a Spanish class each semester at the appropriate level. First-year students are allowed to enroll in 300 level Spanish classes if they are at the appropriate level (based on AP/IB exam score or are have taken SPAN 202). 

FFC 100D - You Choose! 
Credits: 3

All first-year students at Chapman have to take First Year Foundations. The class will introduce you to college and there is a different topic for every major. As a Spanish major, you must select an FFC 100D option from the Wilkinson College - Engaging the World category. 

SPAN - Choose appropriate level 
Credits: 3

GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3

GE class or Minor Exploration class 
Credits: 3

GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3


If taking Interterm:

SPAN - Take SPAN 102, SPAN 201, or SPAN 345
Credits: 3 


Spring Semester

SPAN - Choose appropriate level
Credits: 3

SPAN or GE class
Credits: 3

GE class or Minor Exploration class 
Credits: 3

GE class or Minor Exploration class 
Credits: 3

GE class or Minor Exploration class
Credits: 3