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The Department of Spanish and Portuguese provides a Master of Arts program with a Spanish major. Candidates can focus on one of two specializations: Hispanic literature and cultural studies or Hispanic linguistics. Hispanic Literature and Cultural Studies Specialization: This MA track gives students thorough knowledge of Hispanic literary works and cultural traditions while equipping them for doctoral studies in Spanish or related fields.
Hispanic Linguistics Specialization: The Hispanic Linguistics MA track covers Spanish language structure, including sound systems (Phonetics and Phonology), word formation (Morphology), sentence structure (Syntax), language in society (Sociolinguistics), heritage language studies and teaching methods, language learning research, digital instruction approaches, and language use in context (Pragmatics). This specialization readies graduates for PhD programs in Spanish or other academic areas.
The Spanish MA Program features diverse academic pathways, with options in Hispanic Literature/Culture and Hispanic Linguistics. This structure enables students to deepen their knowledge of Hispanic languages, literary traditions, and cultural practices across the American Southwest, Latin America, and Spain. The curriculum helps students refine their analytical reasoning, speaking, and writing abilities in Spanish while preparing them for professional opportunities across multiple fields or further academic research at the doctoral level.
The Hispanic Linguistics concentration develops expertise in Spanish language analysis, covering sound patterns (Phonetics/Phonology), word structure (Morphology), sentence formation (Syntax), social language use (Sociolinguistics), heritage language education, second language learning processes, and contextual language study (Pragmatics). This program prepares graduates for doctoral work in Spanish or related disciplines.