COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Spanish at University of Colorado Denver offers a flexible and interdisciplinary curriculum that combines advanced study in Spanish language, literature, linguistics, and cultural studies while allowing students to tailor the degree according to professional and academic interests. Students may choose between a Thesis Option, which includes 27 credit hours of coursework and 6 thesis hours, or a Non-Thesis Option consisting of 33 credit hours of coursework. Both pathways begin with the required course Introduction to Graduate Studies in Spanish and include substantial coursework in Literature, Culture, and Linguistics. Students complete at least 6 credit hours in Literature and Culture and 6 credit hours in Linguistics while using elective coursework to build specialized expertise. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning by allowing approved electives outside the Modern Languages Department in fields such as anthropology, history, education, communication, business, economics, political science, ethnic studies, and art history. Students can customize their degree with topical concentrations including Mexican studies, Hispanic and Latino cultural history, and linguistics. Sample coursework explores areas such as Spanish sociolinguistics, dialects of the Spanish-speaking world, contemporary Spanish-American literature, Mexican literature, heritage language teaching, intercultural communication, immigration politics, Latin American history, and bilingual education. Students interested in teaching can also complete coursework in modern language teaching methods and language pedagogy, while teaching assistants are required to take Methods of Teaching Modern Languages. The program supports both academic and professional goals by strengthening advanced Spanish-language proficiency, cultural analysis, research skills, communication abilities, and interdisciplinary understanding. Students also benefit from flexible online study options and opportunities to connect Spanish studies with careers in education, international business, translation, public service, communication, cultural advocacy, and nonprofit organizations. Overall, the MA in Spanish combines advanced language and cultural training with customizable interdisciplinary coursework, research opportunities, and professional development to prepare graduates for success in multilingual and multicultural professional environments.