The M.A. program in Linguistics at the University of Texas at El Paso provides broad training in both theoretical and applied linguistics, preparing students for careers in language teaching and teacher-training and for Ph.D. studies in Linguistics. The program is distinctive in that classes are generally small and the atmosphere supportive, while at the same time the faculty are internationally recognized for their research achievements, which often involve active student collaboration. El Paso's multilingual character and its location on the U.S.-Mexico border make for a fascinating environment for anyone interested in language and language learning. All students take core courses in phonology and syntax, but beyond that they design their own program according to their own interests and goals.
Coursework is available in all major areas of linguistics.
Students with a special interest in Hispanic Linguistics or Applied Linguistics may choose to concentrate in one of these areas. Hispanic Linguistics Students who focus on this area take courses such as Spanish Phonetics and Phonology, Spanish Syntax, Spanish Morphology, and Spanish Historical Linguistics. The University of Texas at El Paso is one of the most active centers of research on Spanish in North America. It is also an excellent place for non-native speakers to improve their practical command of the language, either through formal courses at the university or through everyday life. This area is designed for those who are primarily interested in the teaching of English or Spanish as a second language.