Graduate Spanish Certificate
The Graduate Spanish Certificate for Heritage Language Learners is designed to develop advanced linguistic, cultural, and pedagogical competencies among individuals raised in Spanish-speaking environments. The program focuses on bilingualism, cultural literacy, and professional-level language use in academic and applied settings.
The certificate requires eighteen (18) credit hours (six courses) and may be completed within one academic year. The curriculum consists of four required core courses, one approved elective, and a capstone course. The capstone includes both a faculty-reviewed presentation and a digital reflective portfolio.
The program is open to non-degree-seeking students and to current and former graduate students in the College of Education at Western New Mexico University.
This certificate provides specialized preparation in Spanish Heritage Language (SHL) pedagogy. Upon completion, participants will be able to analyze the linguistic and educational needs of SHL learners, design pedagogically sound instructional materials, and implement culturally and linguistically responsive teaching practices.
Program Objectives
- Develop expertise in heritage language pedagogy and curriculum design
- Enhance academic Spanish proficiency, including advanced literacy and grammar
- Differentiate instructional approaches for heritage versus second-language learners
- Support professional advancement across education and service-oriented fields
- Provide a credential applicable to further graduate study
- Promote critical awareness of linguistic diversity and variation in U.S. Spanish
For additional information, please contact Dr. Gregory Robinson Guerra at gregory.robinsonguerra@wnmu.edu