Doctoral Degree in Hispanic Studies
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A doctorate in Hispanic Studies is ideal for students who are passionate about exploring the rich cultural, social, historical, literary, and linguistic realities of Spanish-speaking communities around the world. This program helps prepare graduates for careers as educators at the secondary and post-secondary levels, as researchers in a variety of disciplines, and even as translators, interpreters, or policy advisors, equipping them with the expertise to analyze the Spanish language, its teaching and acquisition, and the culture, literature, and politics of societies who use it. These skills can help students promote cross-cultural understanding in academic, governmental, and international settings.
Program Overview
The University of Kentucky's Ph.D. program in Hispanic Studies offers an innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for successful careers as scholars and educators as well as relevant industry careers. The program provides a comprehensive foundation in Hispanic linguistics, language, culture, and literature, complemented by an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches. Students have the opportunity to engage with diverse theoretical and methodological perspectives, regardless of discipline, and are encouraged to choose a dissertation topic of personal interest within the areas of faculty expertise.
The department encourages participation in interdisciplinary programs and the completion of graduate certificates in a variety of disciplines, such as Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino Studies; College Teaching and Learning; Teaching in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Classrooms; Social Theory; and Gender and Women's Studies. As a result of generous donations, the department provides financial support for students to engage in research, relevant scholarship, and professional development. This holistic approach equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in academic and professional settings.
Students can earn their MA degree en passant. Students do not need to have a master's degree to apply to the PhD program.
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Please view the current Hispanic Studies graduate handbook for curriculum and degree requirements, procedures and policies, and more.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
Required application materials:
• Statement of purpose in English or Spanish (500-750 words)
• Transcripts of all university academic coursework -- unofficial copies acceptable (official will be requested upon admission)
• Academic writing sample in Spanish
• Three recommendations from university professors (email addresses entered)
• International applicants whose native language is not English must have evidence of English language proficiency, and can satisfy this requirement by submitting one of the following English language exam scores:
-TOEFL minimum score of 79 (internet-based), 213 (computer-based), or 550 (paper-based);
-IELTS minimum score of 6.5;
-Duolingo minimum score of 115.
International applicants who have previously completed a BA or MA degree in the United States do not need to submit English language exam scores unless the admissions committee has concerns about proficiency.
In most cases, those being considered for acceptance will be asked to participate in a video-conference call as a means to measure English and Spanish oral proficiency.
• A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score is NOT required to apply for and be accepted into the graduate program in Hispanic Studies; however, those students who wish to apply for certain non-departmental scholarships, grants, and fellowships that do require the GRE, may want to take it.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Program Specific Funding Opportunities
Graduate students admitted into the Masters or Doctoral programs in the Department of Hispanic Studies may request to be considered as a Graduate Teaching Assistant. A teaching assistantship allows students to receive supervised, hands-on training in the classroom while completing their program of study. Students typically teach two lower-level language courses each semester coordinated by the Director of Elementary Language Instruction and also receive a full tuition and fees scholarship as well as health insurance and a modest stipend.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Get More Information
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