Spanish PhD

Advance your research and specialize your students in Hispanic language and culture with the Doctor of Philosophy in Spanish in the College of Liberal Arts at Temple University. 

This interdisciplinary doctoral program's curriculum is a blend of literature and linguistics, with a strong focus on individual research. Students may specialize in one of the following three areas of study. 

  • Spanish Peninsular literature
  • Spanish American literature
  • Hispanic linguistics

In these focused programs, students explore notable literary works from medieval through contemporary periods, and their impacts on society over time. You will investigate the intricate ties between language and history, culture and politics in Spanish-speaking nations around the world. Develop a deeper understanding of the importance of linguistics and cultural empathy in fields such as healthcare and government affairs. 

The Spanish PhD program’s advanced coursework and research opportunities, as well as support from College of Liberal Arts faculty, prepare you for a breadth of professional pursuits. Temple’s Spanish Department has an excellent record of placing graduates as full-time faculty in public and private universities, while other students go on to pursue local and federal government positions, as well as careers in social work, healthcare, tourism and hospitality, and more. Doctoral students also have the option to pursue funded teaching assistantships

Students with a particular interest in healthcare may also add the Spanish for Health Professions Graduate Certificate, an online program that prepares professionals in healthcare fields to engage in Spanish communication with Latinx and Spanish-speaking communities.

Program Format & Curriculum

The Spanish PhD program requirements can be completed with 24 credits beyond the master’s degree and 54 credits beyond a bachelor’s degree. The rigorous curriculum comprises required courses, electives, a Graduate Language Examination (GLE), a comprehensive examination and research that will culminate in a written dissertation and oral defense.

The GLE is administered four times per year⁠⁠—twice during the fall semester and twice during the spring semester. Catalan exams are administered by the department upon request.  Register for the GLE.

Students have seven years to complete the program on a part- or full-time basis, and courses are offered at Temple’s Main Campus. 

In addition to electives, all Spanish PhD students are required to take one course from each of the following fields. 

  • Hispanic linguistics
  • Latin American literature
  • Spanish Peninsular literature

Learn more about the Spanish PhD program requirements

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

*College of Education and Human Development

Our Community

The College of Liberal Arts at Temple comprises many academic disciplines and research areas. Now more than ever, an interdisciplinary liberal arts education is invaluable for your future pursuits. It offers the opportunity to further push your drive to create real change in the world, here at Temple and beyond. In this graduate program, you’ll work closely with diverse faculty members who are highly esteemed in their field and with a curious, passionate community of peers. Learn more about the College of Liberal Arts

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of Philosophy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,105.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,518.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

LA-SPAN-PHD

Additional Program Information