Translate Languages, Change Lives
South Piedmont’s Community Spanish Interpreter program is the only program of its kind in our region.
We created the program in direct response to the rapidly growing Latino population in Anson and Union counties. As the number of Spanish-speaking residents grows, so does the need for highly trained interpreters in our schools, hospitals, courtrooms, and a variety of other settings.
Ready to make a difference for your neighbors? You will as an community Spanish interpreter.
The Program Options
Some courses may require a virtual synchronous component via MS Teams.
Mode
Online
Prerequisites
English proficiency
Some courses may require a virtual synchronous component via MS Teams.
Mode
Online
Prerequisites
English proficiency
Some courses may require a virtual synchronous component via MS Teams.
Mode
Online
Prerequisites
English proficiency
Some courses may require a virtual synchronous component via MS Teams.
Mode
Online
Prerequisites
Spanish & English proficiency
Some courses may require a virtual synchronous component via MS Teams.
Mode
Online
Prerequisites
Spanish & English proficiency
Some courses may require a virtual synchronous component via MS Teams.
Mode
Online
Prerequisites
Spanish & English proficiency, unweighted GPA of 2.8
Some courses may require a virtual synchronous component via MS Teams.
Mode
Online
Prerequisites
Spanish & English proficiency, unweighted GPA of 2.8
4
Programs Spanish Interpreter available, including a Career and Technical Education pathway for high school students, certificate, diploma, and degree.
17:1
Average student-to-teacher ratio at South Piedmont, but Community Spanish Interpreter classes are typically smaller. You won’t get lost in the crowd here!
Blended
Many classes are offered via a blended synchronous format, meaning that you will attend most classes online during set class times.
An Impact That Needs No Translation
As a Community Spanish Interpreter student at South Piedmont, you will learn about everything from the opportunities available in the interpreting field, to the Latino culture, ethics, and specialized terminology you’ll need in your future career.
You’ll participate in role-play and service-learning activities, all while continually assessing and developing your own bilingual interpreting skills.
When you complete the program, you’ll be ready for job opportunities in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, courtrooms, and more.
Learning to Translate — and Open Doors
I’m loving the program. It’s convenient, and I’m learning a lot. A lot of doors are closed for people when they can’t communicate. I want to be an advocate for Spanish-speakers and open the doors for them.
Luci Rosas, Community Spanish Interpreter student and a resident of Marshville
Community Spanish Interpreter FAQ
To be eligible for the certificate option, you need to be proficient in both Spanish and English. To be eligible for the diploma or the degree, you only need to be proficient in English.
Prerequisites for Certificate option:
- Spanish language proficiency at an advanced-low level. Can be demonstrated through ONE of the following:
- APPT placement testing for reading and listening comprehension—offered at SPCC’s testing center
- Completion of SPA-111, SPA-112, SPA-211 and SPA-212
- Spanish Language and Culture AP exam score of 5
- English language proficiency at an advanced-low level. Can be demonstrated through ONE of the following:
- CASAS placement testing for reading and listening comprehension—offered at SPCC’s testing center
- Completion of ENG-111 and ENG-112
- English Language and Composition AP exam score of 3
First, choose the program you’re interested in pursuing.
Second, apply to the College. When you apply, you will see the options:
- degree
- certificate (medical or public service)
- diploma
Third, be sure to provide all required information and any transcripts for educational institutions that you have attended to complete your application in a timely manner.
If you are interested in the certificate pathway, follow the instructions to sign up for and take the Spanish and English language placement tests.
If you already have a degree, your submitted transcripts may exempt you from some coursework, meaning you may not need to take the tests.
This information is only relevant to those who are planning to choose the certificate/CTE program option.
Step 1: Pay for your test($15). Need help registering for the APPT exam on this site? Watch this quick video or review the PDF with directions.
Step 2: To sign up for your testing center appointment, visit the testing center page.
Step 3: Choose either Monroe or Polkton as your testing location.
Step 4: Choose the ACTFL Proficiency Placement Test (APPT Exam).
Step 5: Complete the rest of the form
Step 6: Sign up for the CASAS Reading and Listening exam
If students are interested in becoming a certified medical or legal interpreter, they will need to prepare for and pass extensive certification testing provided by state or federal organizations. Information will be provided throughout the program.
Make the Most of Your Time at South Piedmont
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