Program Overview
The PhD program in Spanish Linguistics offers advanced training in second language acquisition, applied linguistics, heritage language research, sociolinguistics, and bilingualism. Students choose from two tracks: Spanish heritage studies and sociolinguistics or second language acquisition and teaching. The program combines theoretical and practical approaches, preparing graduates for careers in academia and beyond, including teaching, research, editing, and translation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Focus:
The program offers advanced interdisciplinary training in Spanish linguistics, covering topics like second language acquisition and teaching, applied linguistics, heritage language research and pedagogy, sociolinguistics, and bilingualism.
Objectives:
- Receive solid academic preparation: Gain a thorough foundation in the field of Spanish linguistics.
- Intensive professional development opportunities: Participate in workshops, conferences, and other programs to enhance professional skills.
- Strong pedagogical training and teaching experiences: Develop the skills and experience necessary for a successful teaching career.
Program Description:
This PhD program combines theoretical and practical approaches to the study of Spanish language and linguistics. Students receive rigorous training in various areas, including:
- Applied Linguistics: Learn how to apply linguistic theories and methodologies to real-world situations in various professional settings.
- Heritage Language Research and Pedagogy: Investigate the unique challenges and opportunities associated with teaching heritage languages like Spanish.
- Sociolinguistics and Bilingualism: Examine the social and cultural factors influencing language use and multilingualism.
Outline:
Track Options:
- Students choose from two tracks:
- Spanish heritage studies and sociolinguistics
- Second language acquisition and teaching
Course Requirements:
- Core (3 credit hours): SPA 543 Structure of Spanish
- Track (9 credit hours): Electives in chosen track
- Research (41 credit hours):
- Required courses based on track: SPA 544 Spanish Phonology, SPA 546 Heritage Language Pedagogy, SPA 598 Topic: Research Methods for Linguists, SPA 598 Topic: Sociolinguistics, SPA 598 Topic: Spanish Second Language Acquisition
- Additional electives or research to reach 84 credit hours
- Culminating Experience (12 credit hours): SPA 799 Dissertation
- Other Requirements (19 credit hours):
- COE 502 Introduction to Data Analysis (3)
Careers:
- Academic Careers: Teacher, scholar, researcher, professor in Hispanic studies
- Non-Academic Careers:
- Editor
- Foreign language and linguistics instructor
- Instructional design coordinator
- Interpreter/Translator
- Lawyer
- Reporter/Correspondent
- Social and community service manager
- Teacher/Professor of area, ethnic, and cultural studies
Other:
- Program Length: 84 credit hours
- Foreign Language Requirement: Reading knowledge of one language other than English and Spanish
- Master's Degree Credit Transfer: Up to 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree can be applied to this program.
Conclusion:
This PhD program in Spanish Linguistics provides a comprehensive and innovative approach to studying the language and its various applications. With its focus on both theoretical and practical aspects, the program prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in academia and beyond.
