All natural languages are aesthetic codes. Among other things, this means that they vary, change and are beautiful. Linguistics explores how language is generated by the brain, how we use our speech organs to transmit the messages the brain encodes, and how these messages are decoded by the hearer. Linguistics also explores how language, in all its facets, evolves over time and varies across social and geographical space. In the Department of Spanish and Portuguese, we study these and many other related topics, including the formidable challenges posed by translation, as they apply to Spanish—one of the world’s great languages.
Prerequisite Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Spanish, Spanish Teaching, or the equivalent
Previous experience teaching Spanish preferred
Proficiency in a second foreign language; through 205 course level for Spanish (Intermediate High Level), or through 201 course level for other modern languages (Intermediate Mid Level). If not completed during undergraduate studies, this requirement may be fulfilled by Challenge Exam concurrently with MA program coursework no later than the third semester of study.
For teaching eligibility, complete a teaching methods course (SPAN 376 or equivalent). If not completed during undergraduate studies, this requirement may be fulfilled concurrently with MA program coursework in the first semester of study.
Strong academic writing skills and a capacity to conduct independent research