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The Doctor of Philosophy program in Mexican American and Latina/o Studies equips graduates for academic roles in this field and related disciplines, as well as for careers in arts, advocacy, and other professions requiring expertise in Mexican American and Latina/o studies. The curriculum focuses on developing the knowledge, methodologies, and competencies essential for scholarly instruction, innovative research, intellectual leadership, creative work, and other forms of accomplishment within this interdisciplinary domain and related core disciplines chosen by each student. The inaugural PhD class began their studies in Fall 2018.
The Mexican American and Latina/o Studies Department (MALS) provides financial support to assist current UT Austin undergraduates and graduate students in finishing their degrees and launching successful careers. This funding initiative originated from former UT President Bill Powers' dedication to the MALS community of students, faculty, staff, and the broader public it serves. The MALS Student Professional Development Award aims to foster the career growth of enrolled UT Austin students. Applicants must exhibit outstanding qualifications and pursue academic work aligned with the department's scholarly objectives. Eligible students must be enrolled in either the BA in Mexican American and Latina/o Studies, the PhD program in Mexican American and Latina/o Studies, or the Graduate Portfolio Program in Mexican American and Latina/o Studies.
Applicants to the PhD program in Mexican American and Latina/o Studies must meet the minimum requirements for graduate study at The University of Texas at Austin:
A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or proof of equivalent training in a foreign institution;
A grade point average of at least 3.00 in upper-division (junior- and senior-level) coursework and in any graduate work already completed
The minimum scores considered acceptable for admission by the Graduate School are:
TOEFL: 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT)
IELTS: An overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination