Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Mexican American Studies (MAIS)

Overview

The MAIS in Mexican American Studies is a culturally relevant program designed to offer a unique opportunity for students to engage in research, experiential learning, and community engagement related to Latina/o communities in South Texas and nationally. Students will undertake a concentrated study in the transdisciplinary field of Mexican American Studies, including Chicana/o and Latina/o studies.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the graduate program in Mexican American Studies, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other requirements listed below:

  1. Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or a recognized international equivalent in a similar or related field.
  2. Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester credit hours.
  3. GRE General Test. GRE test scores are valid for 5 years. A waiver of the GRE requirement will be granted to applicants who show proof of completing a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral).
  4. Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources.
  5. Personal statement detailing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the graduate degree.
  6. Resume including educational background and work experience.

Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply.

Program Requirements

Choose one of the following options:

Thesis Option:

18 hours in Discipline One (concentration area)

6 hours in Discipline Two

6 hours in Discipline Three

Capstone Requirement - 6 Hours
Thesis
MASC 7300Thesis I

3

MASC 7301Thesis II

3

Non-Thesis Option:

18 hours in Discipline One (concentration area)

9 hours in Discipline Two

9 hours in Discipline Three

Capstone Requirement

Statement of Philosophy and Praxis; Revision of Seminar Paper and Reflection Paper; Oral Examination 

Total Credit Hours: 36