The Department of Spanish and Portuguese at UC Santa Barbara invites prospective graduate students to a Virtual Open House on November 7 at 10 am (Pacific Time) via Zoom. This session will feature current graduate students and alumni who will share their experiences and insights about academic life at UC Santa Barbara and beyond.

This session will include:

  • Information about admissions, funding, and research opportunities
  • A chance to ask questions and engage in informal conversation with our community

Application Fee Waiver: Students who attend the Open House will be eligible to have their UC Santa Barbara application fee covered by the department.

Register Here


About Our Program

Our department offers an intellectually vibrant and supportive environment for advanced research in literature, culture, and linguistics across the Hispanic and Lusophone worlds. Faculty expertise spans all historical periods and approaches, including:

  • Iberian and Latin American Cultures
  • Gender and Border Studies
  • Film, Media, and Performance Studies
  • Environmental Humanities and Food Studies
  • Literature and Science
  • Linguistics, Bilingualism, and Translation

We take great pride in our outstanding record of graduate placements. Alumni hold positions at leading research universities such as the University of Minnesota, University of Denver, Stanford University, University of Alabama, Colorado State University, Florida Atlantic University, Binghamton University, and UC Davis, among others. Many also teach across California’s community colleges, expanding access to Spanish and Portuguese language education statewide.


Program Highlights

  • Full 5-Year Funding: Tuition + stipend and/or TA salary
  • Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Collaborate across UC Santa Barbara’s vibrant humanities community
  • Comprehensive Professional and Pedagogical Training: Preparation for diverse academic and professional careers