Resources for Literature and Languages Graduate Programs: Comprehensive Exams: Spanish Language Teaching MA
As a graduate student seeking an MA in Spanish Language Teaching, you may choose a thesis or non-thesis option. Each option builds toward a final project you will propose, develop, defend and submit to the Graduate School.
As you complete your coursework, you may naturally begin to identify research topics that interest you. Your final project—either a thesis or a final research project—should represent the culmination of your previous research; it is not recommended to begin researching an entirely new topic with which you have limited previous experience.
Thesis (30 Credit Hours)
SPA 518 – Thesis
Hours: 3-6
Thesis. Three to six semester hours. Graded on a satisfactory (S) or unsatisfactory (U) basis.
The Thesis Process
For a step-by-step outline of the thesis process, visit the Graduate School webpage. For questions or concerns regarding any of the steps, please contact Thesis and Dissertation Services in the Graduate School.
Non-Thesis (36 Credit Hours)
Designed for educators and working professionals, this focus provides a thorough understanding of language acquisition theories, current frameworks for language teaching and research-based approaches to Spanish language teaching and learning. Completing the non-thesis track opens doors to careers in education, journalism and writing.
SPA 595
If you prefer the non-thesis option, you must register for SPA 595: Research Literature and Techniques. This three-credit course requires an extensive investigation into a topic agreed upon by the student and the advisory committee. Final grades are assigned on a satisfactory (S) or unsatisfactory (U) basis.
In addition to mastering research techniques, the comprehensive exam required for graduation is taken while completing this course.
How to Register
Each Fall and Spring, the Department of Literature and Languages offers one section of SPA 595. To be eligible to register, you must:
- Have completed 30 graduate-level credit hours before entry
- Obtain instructor approval and be issued a registration permit (see below)
- Take SPA 595 in your final semester
- Note: SPA 595 can be taken concurrently with an additional course
To determine your eligibility and request a registration permit, please contact the Spanish Program Coordinator. Once department approval is granted, the department’s administrative assistant will issue your registration permit. You may then register for SPA 595 just as you would for any other course.
