Program Overview

Online Graduate Certificate in Spanish as a Heritage Language

The Online Graduate Certificate in Spanish as a Heritage Language is designed for students who want to pursue advanced studies in the teaching of Spanish as a heritage language. The program provides a comprehensive education in the methods and techniques of teaching Spanish as a heritage language, as well as the linguistic and cultural aspects of the Spanish language.

Admission Requirements

Minimum requirements for unconditional admission to the graduate program in Spanish include:

• A bachelor's degree in Spanish from an accredited institution, with an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 (A=4.0) for the last 60 hours of course credit
• Students who have a bachelor's degree in a field other than Spanish must take the following courses before entering the M.A. program:
  • SPAN 3306: Intro to the Study of Span Lang
  • SPAN 3384: Introduction to Hispanic Literature
  • Two 4000-level courses according to the student's interest

Application Process

The application process requires:

• Completed online application
• Official individual mark sheets, transcripts, and degree certificates
• A statement of purpose in Spanish (between 500 and 1,000 words) explaining why you wish to study at the graduate level
• Two letters of recommendation from professors detailing your potential as a graduate student
• Graded writing sample from upper-level Spanish courses
• Official transcripts: A set must be sent directly from the institution to the University of Houston Graduate School
• Transcripts that are not in English must be sent along with an official translation made by a certified interpreter

Additional Requirements for International Students

International students must also provide:

• Certified copy of diploma
• Official transcripts and their certified translation
• English certifications options:
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): minimum score of 79
  • Duolingo English Test: minimum score of 105

Program Requirements

Once admitted to the program:

• No course where a grade below B- (2.67) is received may count towards master's degree
• A minimum grade point average of 3.0 (B) for all graduate courses attempted is required for a graduate degree
• Comprehensive written and oral examinations are required to obtain the degree
• Scheduled during the last semester of coursework

Fees and Deadlines

• Application Fees: $50 for national graduate, $80 for international graduate
• Deadlines:
  • Spring semester: November 1st
  • Fall semester: May 15th