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With 12 academic programs and over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, your future academic home awaits in the UTRGV College of Liberal Arts. Explore degrees below and step into a dynamic and comprehensive educational experience.
Bachelor's
Bachelor's Degree
Anthropology (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology seeks to understand all dimensions of the human experience and our place in nature: who we are, where we come from, and how we understand the diversities and similarities among us. It introduces students to the major areas of biological anthropology, archaeology, sociocultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and applied anthropology along with advanced courses in several of those areas. Students choose from two program concentrations.
Concentrations:
Bachelor's Degree
Communication Studies (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
Program Modality: Campus
Effective and efficient communication is at the center of a well-functioning organization and society. The dynamics of clear communication can be seen in all spaces of productive government, businesses, media, and nonprofit agencies. The Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies focuses on courses such as Persuasion (great preparation for law school), public speaking, advanced public speaking, and the dynamics of interpersonal communication. The program prepares students to communicate with a diverse population using effective communication skills and new media technologies.
Bachelor's Degree
Criminal Justice (BS)
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Program Modality: Campus
A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice prepares students for successful careers in law enforcement, parole and probation, corrections, and youth services. Students learn about the inner workings of the justice system, and develop critical thinking skills, exceptional communication skills, problem solving skills, and an ability to grow and learn after college.
The Criminal Justice program equips students to think critically about the causes and consequences of crime and deviance, evolving issues in the field of criminal justice, the potential of empirical research to help guide policy development, and the role social organization plays in the development of knowledge.
Bachelor's Degree
English (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in English
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in English cultivates scholarly and creative achievement and develops proficiency to read, write, and think critically. It offers students an opportunity to discover more about the world they live in, learn to appreciate artistic works, and develop enhanced literary and language aptitudes.
English is a skills-based major that provides excellent preparation for any profession requiring aptitude in oral and written communication. The program offers several concentrations.
Concentrations:
Bachelor's Degree
English - Teacher Certification (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in English - Teacher Certification
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in English cultivates scholarly and creative achievement and develops proficiency to read, write, and think critically. UTRGV offers degree plans for undergraduate English majors who seek to become certified to teach English Language Arts and Reading for grades 4-8 or 7-12. The curriculum is designed to produce exemplary teacher-leaders prepared for professional careers.
UTRGV is approved by the State Board of Educator Certification to recommend students who complete all requirements for this degree for teacher certification.
Certifications:
Bachelor's Degree
History (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in History
Program Modality: Campus
History is a multifaceted field, rich in knowledge of the past that helps society shape the present and future. The Bachelor’s degree in History introduces students to the past through different historical eras, diverse cultures, famous and ordinary women and men, and a variety of geographical settings.
The program challenges students to think critically, express themselves clearly, and become informed and responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected world. Coursework includes topics in U.S. History, European History, Latin American, and World History.
Bachelor's Degree
History - Teacher Certification (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in History - Teacher Certification
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in History with Teacher Certification provides the knowledge and skills needed to become a certified history teacher for grades 7-12 in Texas. Students complete introductory courses in United States history, world history, and Texas history. Students also complete advanced coursework in a wide range of topics and elective courses. Education courses prepare students to enter the high school classroom.
UTRGV is approved by the State Board of Educator Certification to recommend students who complete all requirements for this degree for teacher certification.
Bachelor's Degree
Human Dimensions of Organizations (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Human Dimensions of Organizations
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Human Dimensions of Organizations (HDO) teaches students to use the disciplines of the liberal arts – the humanities and the social/behavioral sciences – to understand workplace interactions and how organizations can best serve their employees, customers, and clients. This major is intended for students who envision themselves solving human-centered problems in organizations including business, government, nonprofits, and the military.
Bachelor's Degree
Mass Communication (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication provides students with an overview of creative communication, strategic planning, and management strategies needed to become communication leaders. Students develop the skills needed to report to the press, research, negotiate, and plan on behalf of organizations.
The program teaches students how to write the perfect message, find the right audience, and distribute information in the most effective way possible while building relationships based on transparency and honesty. The program offers concentrations within the major.
Concentrations:
Bachelor's Degree
Medical and Health Humanities
Bachelor of Arts in Medical and Health Humanities
Program Modality: Campus
Go beyond traditional healthcare education with a program that bridges the gap between science and the humanities. The Bachelor of Arts in Medical and Health Humanities is designed for students who want a well-rounded education that blends the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
This program will prepare students to do more than just understand the human body—it equips them with the knowledge and skills to see the bigger picture in healthcare. Students will learn about the importance of ethics, empathy, and communication in medicine, making it an ideal foundation for those planning to pursue medical, pharmacy, or other professional degrees in the healthcare field.
One of the best features of this major is its flexibility. Choose from a variety of practical courses, such as nutrition, addiction studies, and clinical Spanish, all of which are highly relevant to a future in healthcare. Plus, there's room in the degree plan to add a minor or even pursue a double major, giving students even more options to tailor their education to their career goals.
Bachelor's Degree
Mexican American Studies (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Mexican American Studies (BA)
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Mexican American Studies is a social justice-oriented program that prepares students to work, serve and research in their communities, and to address and navigate the complex socio-political/historical conditions surrounding Mexican American/Chicanx/Latinx communities. The program prepares students to be leaders and advocates in their communities and professions to transform conditions and promote a just society. Students learn to critically investigate community knowledge and socio-historical, economic, political, educational, cultural, and artistic conditions of and contributions by Mexican Americans, Chicana/os, and Latina/os to the history, culture, and institutions of the United States and the Americas.
Bachelor's Degree
Multidisciplinary Studies (BMS)
Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies in Multidisciplinary Studies
Program Modality: Campus
The bachelor’s degree in Multidisciplinary Studies at UTRGV lets you build your path by combining three different areas of study. With this flexible program, you can choose three minors that interest you and create a degree that’s uniquely yours. This means you can explore multiple fields at once, giving you more options for your future career. Check out the list of minors that you can choose from.
In this program, you’ll learn skills that will help you succeed in today’s fast-changing world and open doors to various career opportunities. Whether you want to go into the workforce or continue your studies in graduate school, the Multidisciplinary Studies program will prepare you with the tools you need to succeed in whatever path you choose.
Bachelor's Degree
Philosophy (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy is designed to help students think more clearly, more perceptively, and more effectively. The program introduces students to the ethical, political, epistemic, and religious philosophies that have shaped history, provides training in logical, critical, and evaluative methods of reflection, and prepares students to apply these methods to discuss and practice personal growth, the betterment of their communities, and the transformation of the world.
The study of philosophy uniquely helps students to better understand and appreciate themselves and the world outside, and how the two are related.
Concentration:
Bachelor's Degree
Political Science (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Political Science is designed to enhance understanding of the moral purpose of government, and how its political influence affects the communities it serves. Political Science majors acquire a broad understanding of the political science discipline while developing transferable skills in oral, written, and technological communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and research, including both quantitative and qualitative analysis. Courses are offered in four major subfields including U.S. Government & Politics, World Politics, Political Economy & Public Policy, and Political Theory.
Bachelor's Degree
Psychology (BS)
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Program Modality: Campus
Psychology is the science of mind and behavior. Although mental disorders and clinical treatments are a component of psychology, the field is considerably broader, encompassing child and adult development, underlying biological processes, social interactions, physical health, memory, cognition, and problem solving.
The Bachelor's degree in Psychology develops the skills required to assist people in improving their mental health. Students also gain knowledge and skills in many other fields, such as business and politics, and learning and education.
Bachelor's Degree
Public Heritage and Community Engagement (BAIS)
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies in Public Heritage and Community Engagement
Program Modality: Campus
The Public Heritage & Community Engagement degree combines the fields of Public History, Critical Cultural Heritage Studies, and Museum Studies to investigate the development, contestations, and implications of shared interpretation, valuation, and appreciation of places, buildings, natural landscapes, traditions, and objects. Program emphasis is placed on the critical role of community partnerships in these endeavors, helping students build the skills and networks that they will need for employment in multiple sectors after graduation.
Concentrations:
Bachelor's Degree
Social Studies Composite (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Composite
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Composite offers students a robust foundation in the experiences and perspectives of past cultures and generations while analyzing the forces that shape lives, endeavors, and institutions.
The program introduces students to a variety of courses in World History, U.S. History, Latin America History, and European History. Emphasis is placed on understanding the cultural, social, religious, and political movements during various historical periods and the major advancements that shaped human history.
Bachelor's Degree
Social Studies Composite - Teacher Certification (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies Composite - Teacher Certification
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Composite with Teacher Certification is an interdisciplinary degree covering history, economics, geography, political science, and behavioral sciences. In addition to acquiring knowledge in history, economics, and politics, students complete a series of education courses designed to prepare them to seek certification as secondary teachers with a Social Studies Composite certification. The Education courses provide hands-on experience in public school classrooms and culminate in a semester-long clinical teaching experience.
UTRGV is approved by the State Board of Educator Certification to recommend students who complete all requirements for this degree for teacher certification.
Bachelor's Degree
Sociology (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Program Modality: Campus
The Bachelor’s degree in Sociology takes students on a journey to understand how society works, why things happen, and the consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies and how people interact within these contexts. Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organized crime to religious traditions; from the divisions of race, gender, and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the latest strategies used in Social Research, Behavioral Sciences, Social Psychology, and other major areas in the field.
Bachelor's Degree
Spanish (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Spanish
Program Modality: Campus
Globalization and the Internet Revolution have intensified contact among cultures, increasing the importance of education in multiple languages and technologies. The Bachelor’s degree in Spanish develops bilingual and bicultural competencies and fosters critical and creative thinking skills through the study of literature, linguistics, translation, creative writing, and cultures. The program promotes these skills by introducing students to philosophical issues examined in literature and art; to writing and analytical skills; and to the rich cultural complexities of languages, peoples, and nations across the globe.
Bachelor's Degree
Spanish - Teacher Certification (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Spanish - Teacher Certification
Program Modality: Campus
A Bachelor’s degree in Spanish with Teacher Certification provides students with an enriched view of the world as well as Spanish language skills that will prove useful in many professions. With its emphasis on research, writing, and creative and analytical thought, a Spanish major prepares students for graduate studies in Spanish, as well as for professional school and for work in professions such as law, teaching, business, management, and publishing. Many Spanish majors combine their Spanish studies with other areas to prepare for career opportunities in international business, government, travel, or communications, where knowledge of a foreign language and of foreign cultures is essential. The degree provides a pathway to teacher certification for students who wish to become Spanish teachers.
UTRGV is approved by the State Board of Educator Certification to recommend students who complete all requirements for this degree for teacher certification.
Bachelor's Degree
Spanish Translation and Interpreting (BA)
Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Translation and Interpreting
Program Modality: Campus
The increasingly multilingual reality of the United States has resulted in a growing demand for translators and interpreters who can facilitate communication through the translation of the Spanish language to and from English. The Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Translation and Interpreting is the first of its kind in the State of Texas. The program prepares future practitioners of the art and science of Translation and Interpreting to play a vital role in shaping the global society of the 21st century.
Students build the analytical skills, cultural literacy, linguistic competence, and professionalism needed by superior translators and interpreters. In addition to course offerings in writing and language, the program requires students to complete a translation and interpreting curriculum that is among the most comprehensive in the United States.
Master's
Master's Degree
Anthropology - Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS)
Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies - Anthropology
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Anthropology program is designed to serve those students seeking to improve their knowledge of the discipline, to introduce graduate work in anthropology for students studying for terminal degrees elsewhere, and to provide a means for students desiring to study anthropology as an avocation. Courses in the program examine a wide range of topics including human biology, health, religion, archaeology, food, gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, politics, environment, family, border issues, immigration, folk healing, cultural heritage, forensics, and Mexican American culture.
Master's Degree
Bioethics (MS)
Master of Science in Bioethics
Program Modality: Online
The Master’s degree in Bioethics prepares leaders in bioethics, social justice, and health equity to create opportunities and manage resources for ethical and complex challenges in social, political, and economic climates. The program prepares students to develop a theoretical framework for understanding bioethical issues, examine how bioethical issues impact health care decisions, and understand the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations in achieving health equity.
Master's Degree
Clinical Psychology (MA)
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology is designed for those who want to enter a career in mental health service delivery founded on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health problems, whether they be complex, chronic conditions, or relatively transient, acute problems.
Graduates of the Clinical Psychology program are prepared to obtain a license as a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) or to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology.
Certification:
Master's Degree
Communication (MA)
Master of Arts in Communication
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Communication is designed for those who are interested in pursuing advanced studies in Communication as a means of enhancing their professional and academic careers. It is a broad-based and individualized degree program that addresses all the essential dimensions and components of communication studies, including organizational, interpersonal, intercultural, public relations, mass media, and communication theory. Students are grounded in communication research, both theoretical and applied. Substantial flexibility exists for the student in communication to design a course and research program that fits his or her unique and specialized professional and educational goals.
Master's Degree
Criminal Justice (MS)
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
The Master’s degree in Criminal Justice is designed for students who want to pursue further studies beyond the bachelor’s degree and enhance their career opportunities in the field of criminal justice. The program prepares students with the research skills and conceptual and practical knowledge critical to meet the demands of leadership roles in criminal justice or in social services.
Accelerated Online Programs:
Master's Degree
Disaster Studies (MA)
Master of Arts in Disaster Studies
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Disaster Studies provides students with critical training and experience in the field of emergency management to assist in preparing for and managing disasters.
For those planning careers in research and teaching, the program also prepares students for doctoral programs in emergency management, public health, and related fields.
Master's Degree
English (MA)
Master of Arts in English
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in English cultivates scholarly and creative achievement through student literacy – specifically the abilities to read, write, and think critically, as well as an appreciation for the English language.
Graduates enter professions such as teaching, writing, editing, media production, law, public service, advocacy, or pursue graduate or professional studies. The program offers several concentrations.
Concentrations:
Master's Degree
English - Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS)
Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies - English
Program Modality: Campus
Students pursuing a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in English may choose a program of study within the English department of literature, linguistics, rhetoric, composition, and literacy. This flexible program offers students an opportunity to discover more about the world they live in, learn to appreciate the artistic works of fellow human beings, and develop literary and language aptitudes of their own. The program prepares students for any profession requiring a high degree of skill and comprehension in oral and written communication.
The program prepares students to pursue doctoral studies and careers in teaching, professional writing, and editing.
Master's Degree
English as a Second Language (MA)
Master of Arts in English as a Second Language
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in English as a Second Language is designed to prepare language educators within the TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages and Dialects) profession.
The program provides students an opportunity to continue their education as teachers and administrators who interact with second language learners in the public and private school sectors. The program prepares students who are new teachers, researchers, and administrators for working with second language learners, particularly learners of English as a second language, throughout the world under varying social, political, economic, and cultural conditions.
Master's Degree
Experimental Psychology (MA)
Master of Arts in Experimental Psychology
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Experimental Psychology is designed to help a student advance to a doctoral program. In conjunction with work experience gained in the student’s field of endeavor, a master's degree in experimental psychology may lead to enhanced career opportunities. Graduates of the experimental psychology program are prepared to pursue a doctorate in experimental psychology or provide research support to ongoing public or private projects.
Master's Degree
History (MA)
Master of Arts in History
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in History is designed for students looking to expand their knowledge in the field. The program further develops analyzing, research, critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. Students learn about the past through different historical eras, diverse cultures, famous and ordinary men and women, and a variety of geographical settings.
The program challenges students to think critically, express themselves clearly, and become informed and responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected world. Coursework includes topics in U.S. History, Europe History, Latin American, and World History.
Master's Degree
History - Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS)
Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in History
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in History is an advanced history program designed for students looking to continue growing their knowledge in the field. The program deepens knowledge and helps develop analyzing, research, critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. Students learn about the past through different historical eras, diverse cultures, famous and ordinary men and women, and a variety of geographical settings. The program can be tailored to the students' goals and interests. The program challenges students to think critically, express themselves clearly, and become informed and responsible citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.
Master's Degree
Mexican American Studies - Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS)
Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Mexican American Studies
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Mexican American Studies provides students with a concentrated study in the transdisciplinary field of Mexican American Studies, including Chicana/o and Latina/o studies. The program’s interdisciplinary nature and culturally relevant curriculum offer exciting, rich, and unique opportunities for students to engage in research, experiential learning, and community engagement related to Latina/o communities in South Texas and nationally.
Master's Degree
Political Science (MA)
Master of Arts in Political Science
Program Modality: Campus
The Master's degree in Political Science provides expertise in subfields such as Governance and Policy Process, World and Borderland Politics, and the Politics of Race, Gender, and Class. Students graduate with training in subfields of political science that are uniquely relevant to the Rio Grande Valley, such as World and Borderland Politics and Governance and Policy Process.
Concentrations:
Master's Degree
Public Affairs (MPA)
Master of Public Affairs
Program Modality: Online
Program Modality: Campus
The Master's degree in Public Affairs is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with administrative concepts and competencies that can be utilized in a variety of administrative careers in public and nonprofit agencies. The program offers several concentrations.
Concentrations:
Accelerated Online Programs:
Master's Degree
Sociology (MS)
Master of Science in Sociology
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Sociology prepares students with the knowledge and the technical expertise to be effective specialists, analysts, and administrators in a variety of settings like federal, state, and local government agencies, school districts, community health and aging organizations, marketing firms, and evaluation programs. The curriculum emphasizes methods, statistics, and theory. Students have opportunities to gain both research and teaching experience.
Master's Degree
Spanish (MA)
Master of Arts in Spanish
Program Modality: Campus
The Master’s degree in Spanish enhances skills in the areas of Spanish linguistics, Latin America and Peninsular Literature, Creative Writing, and Latina/o Literature and Language. The program fosters critical and creative thinking skills through the study of literature, linguistics, translation, creative writing, and culture. The program promotes these skills by introducing students to philosophical issues examined in literature and art; writing and analytical skills; and the rich cultural complexities of languages, peoples, and nations across the globe. This program offers several concentrations.
Concentrations:
Master's Degree
Spanish Translation and Interpreting (MA)
Master of Arts in Spanish Translation and Interpreting
Program Modality: Online
The Master’s degree in Spanish Translation and Interpreting provides students with instruction in the translation of general and specialized texts from English into Spanish and vice versa at a professional level. The program exposes students to consecutive and simultaneous interpreting and provides the opportunity to further develop knowledge and skills in these and other fields, such as legal, medical, and finance translation, literary translation, and court interpreting through both practice and theory. Students may choose between the translation focus (aimed at those willing to pursue a career as professional translators/interpreters) and the research focus (aimed at those willing to research in Translation Studies).
Doctorate
Doctoral Degree
Clinical Psychology (PhD)
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology
Program Modality: Campus
The Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology provides integrated academic, scientific, and professional training. The training ensures the development of broad-based clinical skills and encourages close, cooperative work with other healthcare specialists, such as pediatricians, internists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, geriatricians, and psychiatrists. The program provides students with intensive instruction in the theoretical framework of psychology and broad experience in methods of practice in clinical psychology. The program is defined by the scientist-practitioner model. Graduates are well-prepared clinicians and researchers because of a solid grounding in theory, practice, and research.