WilmU adds Spanish immersion business course

Wilmington University introduces its Business Communications course in Spanish immersion format this fall. (Photo courtesy of Wilmington University)

Wilmington University continues to grow its bilingual curricula with the addition of a business class taught through a Spanish immersion format.

The school announced Wednesday that its Business Communications course will join Principles of Management, introduced in 2023, to be conducted entirely in Spanish.

This approach, WilmU states, benefits both native speakers and those seeking to improve their skills and prepare for bilingual careers.

Spanish population

“Wilmington University is committed to meeting the diverse needs of our student body,” said Robin Weinstein, dean of the College of Business. “Reflective of our ongoing efforts to provide innovative, inclusive, and relevant educational opportunities for all students, the introduction of a Spanish immersion format for our Business Communications course exemplifies this dedication by offering courses that cater to bilingual students.”

Weinstein said in addition to supporting academic growth, the school equips students with the cultural and linguistic skills necessary to thrive in today’s global business environment.

U.S. Census data shows that almost 20 percent of the population is Hispanic and 7 percent of Delawareans are from Spanish-speaking households.

“The Latino population is the largest minority in the U.S. today,” said Guillermina Gonzalez, assistant professor and assistant chair of undergraduate programs, who is at the forefront of bilingual instruction at WilmU’s business school.

Providing the opportunity for bilingual instruction allows Latino and other students to choose how they prefer to learn, Gonzalez said.

“Being bilingual increases not only cultural awareness but also improves academic performance,” she said. “Being bilingual implies that you have much more to offer and opens the door to better job prospects. It increases your chances of being hired.”