The purpose of the Spanish Pedagogy M.A. is to prepare graduate students in the field of Spanish language teaching with additional understanding, knowledge, and pedagogic skills beyond those acquired at the B.A. level in order to be an effective teacher in the Spanish classroom and/or a successful student in a doctoral program in foreign language education. (Note: The Spanish Pedagogy M.A. program is not an initial teacher licensure program. Students who desire to earn a teaching license along with an M.A. may wish to look into the World Languages MLA program at the University of Utah or similar programs at other institutions.)
Program Strengths
> A broad range of course offerings, including principles of language teaching and learning, teaching oral and literacy skills, teaching culture, using technology in the classroom, assessing language learning, and conducting research.
> Many courses tailored specifically for teachers of Spanish.
> One-week mini-courses taught by visiting professors from around the country.
> State-of-the-art technological facilities and labs.
> Classes offered in late afternoons and evenings to accommodate practicing teachers.
> Professional track program available (see below).
Pre-requisites for Candidates
> Complete a bachelor’s degree in Spanish, Spanish Teaching, or another subject. If in another subject, you must have completed Spanish courses equivalent to our Spanish minor.
> Applicants should have advanced Spanish language proficiency, strong academic writing skills, and the ability to conduct independent research.
> Take the GRE.
> Previous Spanish teaching experience preferred.
> See BYU Graduate Studies for more information on the following application requirements:
*Resume
*Statement of Intent
*Writing Sample
*List of Advanced Language Courses
*References
Program Requirements
> Complete a total of 33 credit hours, consisting of 27 credit hours of coursework and 6 credit hours of project or thesis work.
> Complete three semesters, or equivalent, of a second foreign language.
> Teach at least one Spanish or Portuguese language class (100 or 200 level).
> Complete a comprehensive specialty exam which covers readings and coursework.
Traditional vs. Professional Track
Students who enroll in the traditional track complete most of their coursework by enrolling as full-time students in day classes during Fall and Winter semesters. Students are welcome to enroll in the BYU Summer Institute for Spanish Teachers to fulfill required coursework during Summer term.
The professional track is tailored toward practicing teachers who work full-time. Students in this track take one required course during Fall semester and one during Winter semester, offered in the late afternoon and evening. They complete additional courses by enrolling full-time during Summer term, which includes the option to participate in the BYU Summer Institute for Spanish Teachers.
Financial Aid
The Department of Spanish and Portuguese typically provides scholarships for 50-80% of LDS tuition for required classes.
Paid student instructorships are also available.
Apply Now
Apply for this program by February 1st to begin the following Fall semester.
Points of contact:
Dr. Rob Martinsen: rob.martinsen@byu.edu; 801-422-8466 (Pedagogy Section Head )
Dr. Brian Price: brian_price@byu.edu; 801-422-3453 (Graduate Coordinator)
Linda Chaston: linda_chaston@byu.edu; 801-422-2196 (Graduate Secretary)
See BYU Graduate Studies or the document below for further details.