DLO 1: Evaluate central concepts, issues, and debates in the field of Spanish linguistics.

DLO 2: Develop knowledge and skills necessary to teach Spanish courses using up-to-date approaches, techniques, and technologies.

DLO 3: Apply knowledge and skills in linguistics to critically analyze bilingual/bicultural situations and contexts.

DLO 4: Evaluate Spanish and Spanish American literary texts in their historical and social contexts.

DLO 5: Apply theoretical and methodological approaches to the analysis of Spanish and Spanish American literary texts.

Download the curricular map.

Students must complete an approved graduate program of at least 30 units to include:

Required Core Courses

• SPAN 601: Seminar in Hispanic Literary Theory (3 units)
• SPAN 602: Foundations and Research Methods in Hispanic Linguistics (3 units)
• SPAN 661: Issues in the Study of Spanish Bilingualism (3 units)
• SPAN 770: Applied Spanish Linguistics for Teachers (3 units)

Six units selected from

• SPAN 603: Early Modern Hispanic Literature (3 units)
• SPAN 604:  Spanish Literature: Eighteenth to Twentieth Century (3 units)
• SPAN 606: Spanish American Literature: Independence to Present (3 units)

12 units of electives selected in consultation with the graduate adviser

Electives rotate each semester. Recent offerings include:

• SPAN 611: Both Sides of the Border: Spanish in the U.S.–Mexico Border Region
• SPAN 792: Spanish Language and Society
• SPAN 515: Mexican Literature
• SPAN 631: Spanish Women Writers
• SPAN 751: Seminar in Realism
• PORT 520: Women Authors in Portuguese

Students in the Spanish M.A. program must demonstrate knowledge of Portuguese by completing a Portuguese course at any level or by passing an examination administered by the department. Recommended course options include PORT 110: Beginning Portuguese for Spanish Speakers and 500-level Portuguese literature courses (PORT 520, 530, 535, or 540). Courses numbered 520, 530, 535, or 540 may fulfill both the Portuguese language requirement and one graduate elective requirement. Students should consult the graduate advisor before enrolling to confirm that a course meets the requirement. 

All students complete a culminating experience after advancement to candidacy: a thesis (Plan A) or a comprehensive exam (Plan B). Students should consult the graduate advisor early in the program when considering these options. Those considering a thesis should identify a topic and a faculty mentor by the end of their second semester.

Plan A: Master’s Thesis

Students complete an original research project under the supervision of a three-member faculty committee (a chair and second reader from the department, and a third reader from another department). Depending on the project, completion may require a fifth semester. Students should consult the graduate advisor regarding procedures and requirements.

Plan B: Comprehensive Examination

Students complete a written examination covering four areas: Linguistics and Research Methods, Language Teaching and Bilingualism, Peninsular Literature, and Spanish American Literature. The examination is administered over two days and offered during the fall and spring semesters. Students should consult the graduate advisor regarding preparation and requirements.