Conversational Spanish Certificate

The UT Tyler Conversational Spanish Certificate formally recognizes advanced coursework and demonstrated oral proficiency in Spanish. Open to all UT Tyler undergraduate students—regardless of major—this 9-credit, fully online program focuses on refining conversational skills for real-world contexts. Designed to prepare students for careers in which Spanish communication is essential, the certificate emphasizes practical speaking, listening, and cultural interaction. It addresses the growing demand for bilingual professionals in Texas providing a cost-effective certification that validates both academic achievement and workplace readiness. 

To enroll in a Spanish certificate program, students have four prerequisite options.

• Complete SPAN 1611 and SPAN 2611 or
• Complete 12 hours in lower-division SPAN at another institution or
• Pass the CLEP Exam with a 63 or higher or
• Pass a SPAN Proficiency Exam administered by UT Tyler SPAN professor

Students will select 3 of 5 course options (9 hours) to complete the Conversational Spanish Certificate. 
  
Pick 3 online courses: 

• SPAN 4313 (Advanced Spanish Communication I) 
• SPAN 4314 (Advanced Spanish Communication II)
• SPAN 4385 (Spanish for Oral Proficiency)
• SPAN 4368 (Field Study in Spanish – Study Abroad)
• SPAN 4360* (Special Studies in Spanish Literature & Language) 

*When course treats oral communication topic 

Upon completion of the Conversational Spanish Certificate, the student will be able to: 

1. Communicate effectively in spoken Spanish in professional and real-world contexts by engaging in sustained conversations, exchanging information, and expressing ideas clearly and appropriately across a range of situations. 
2. Demonstrate listening comprehension and conversational responsiveness in Spanish by interpreting spoken language and responding appropriately in interactive communication settings. 
3. Use advanced Spanish vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately to support effective oral and written communication in professional and community-based contexts. 
4. Demonstrate an understanding of Hispanic cultures and perspectives by applying culturally appropriate communication strategies during interpersonal and professional interactions.
5. Reflect on and evaluate personal language development by identifying areas of growth in Spanish proficiency, cultural awareness, and communicative confidence. 

Certificate Marketable Skills:
Professional Oral Communication in Spanish 
Active Listening & Conversational Responsiveness 
Interpersonal Communication