Bilingual / Bicultural Studies (M.A.)

Program Overview

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The Master of Arts in Bilingual/Bicultural Studies at La Salle University is a part-time evening program designed for professionals seeking cultural awareness and Spanish language proficiency. It offers individualized bilingual instruction, bicultural components tailored to specific professional needs, and a field experience in the Latino community. Graduates are highly sought after in various fields, including education, healthcare, law enforcement, and business.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objective:

The Master of Arts degree in Bilingual/Bicultural Studies is a part-time evening program designed for professionals who want to become culturally aware and learn a second language (Spanish). It is geared towards individuals working with the growing Hispanic population in Philadelphia and the nation. Full-time study options are available.

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Description:

This unique program addresses two main areas:

• Bilingual Component: Individualized instruction based on the student's proficiency in Spanish.
• Bicultural Component: Designed to address the specific professional needs of the student in today's globalized society, where bilingual professionals are in high demand.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• The curriculum is structured to provide extensive bilingual and bicultural instruction for various professionals, including teachers, nurses, hospital employees, social workers, court employees, police officers, and human resources professionals.
• The program focuses on developing students' language skills in Spanish, cultural awareness, and professional skills relevant to their chosen field.

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Program Structure:

• The program is offered as a part-time evening program, allowing students to balance their studies with work and other commitments.
However, the program description highlights certain key courses:
• BLS 520 – Field Experience in the Latino Community
• BLS 604 – Cultural Pluralism and Minority Groups in the U.S.
• BLS 615 – Health-Care Interpretation

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Individual Modules:

• BLS 520 – Field Experience in the Latino Community: Students work in placements related to their profession in the Greater Philadelphia/New Jersey Latino community, gaining practical experience and applying their knowledge.
• BLS 604 – Cultural Pluralism and Minority Groups in the U.S.: This course examines ethnicity, language, and cultural and social stratification of minorities, with a focus on Latinos, exploring contemporary American issues like opportunity, family, class, social mobility, and urbanism.
• BLS 615 – Health-Care Interpretation: This course focuses on the US healthcare system, medical terminology, ethics for medical interpreters, and their role in healthcare settings.
However, it is likely that the program utilizes a combination of methods, including:
• Exams: Evaluating students' knowledge and understanding of course material.
• Assignments: Assessing students' ability to apply their learning to practical situations.
• Presentations: Assessing students' communication skills and ability to synthesize information.
• Field Experience Evaluation: Evaluating students' performance and development during their field placement.
However, it is likely that the program considers factors such as:
• Accuracy and fluency in Spanish language skills.

• Depth of understanding of cultural concepts and issues.

• Application of knowledge and skills to professional contexts.

• Performance in field experience and other practical assignments.
However, it is likely that the program uses a variety of methods, including:
• Interactive lectures and discussions: Facilitating active learning and engagement with the material.
• Small group work and collaborative projects: Encouraging teamwork and application of knowledge.
• Case studies and simulations: Providing real-world scenarios to practice skills and decision-making.

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Unique Approaches:

The program's unique features include:

• Individualized attention: Catered to each student's language proficiency and professional goals.
• Field experience: Providing practical experience and application of knowledge in real-world settings.
• Focus on cultural awareness: Developing students' understanding and appreciation of Hispanic culture.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

The program prepares graduates for diverse careers in fields such as:

• Education: Bilingual teachers, ESL instructors, educational administrators.
• Healthcare: Medical interpreters, healthcare administrators, social workers.
• Law enforcement: Police officers, court interpreters, legal professionals.
• Human resources: HR professionals specializing in diversity and inclusion.
• Business and government: Bilingual professionals in international business, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.

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Employment Rate:

The program boasts a 100% employment rate for graduates after their first year of completion.

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Competition:

This unique program is the only one of its kind in the United States, offering graduates a competitive edge in the job market.

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Other:

For more specific details about the Bilingual/Bicultural Studies program at La Salle University, it is recommended to contact the program directly or visit their website.