This certificate, designed for students pursuing careers or employed in health-related professions, focuses on Spanish language acquisition for cross-cultural communication. It also emphasizes cultural and social knowledge of the Hispanic world necessary for the better development of healthcare practices.
Beyond achieving linguistic proficiency and cultural competence, this program opens doors to several promising future prospects:
Language-Concordant Healthcare Providers: Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to serve as language-concordant providers, effectively bridging communication gaps between patients and healthcare professionals. By facilitating clear and culturally sensitive communication, they play a pivotal role in improving healthcare outcomes for Spanish-speaking patients. This is particularly valuable in regions with a significant Hispanic/Latino population, where language barriers can hinder access to quality healthcare.
Interpreters and Translators: With their advanced language skills and cultural awareness, program graduates can pursue careers as medical interpreters and translators. They can work in hospitals, clinics, or as freelance professionals, facilitating communication between patients and healthcare practitioners. As proficient speakers of Spanish within the healthcare professions, they contribute to accurate communication of diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient care.
Cultural Competence Educators: The program's emphasis on cultural understanding prepares students to educate healthcare professionals on working with diverse patient populations. Graduates can become cultural competence trainers, helping their colleagues navigate the complexities of cross-cultural healthcare. This role is increasingly critical in the evolving landscape of healthcare, where patient-centered care and cultural sensitivity are paramount.
Community Health Advocates: By participating in service learning and community-based activities, students gain firsthand experience in addressing the healthcare needs of diverse populations. This prepares them for roles as community health advocates, working to improve healthcare access, awareness, and equity in underserved communities. They can collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and healthcare institutions to create positive change.
Research and Policy Development: Graduates can pursue careers in healthcare research and policy development, focusing on issues related to language and cultural diversity. Their deep understanding of language barriers' impact on health equity positions them to contribute to groundbreaking research and advocate for policies that promote equitable healthcare access.
Global Health Professionals: In an increasingly interconnected world, there is a growing demand for healthcare professionals who can work with diverse populations, including Spanish-speaking communities. Program alumni can explore opportunities in global health, whether participating in medical missions, working with international organizations, or contributing to healthcare initiatives in Spanish-speaking countries.
To receive an undergraduate certificate (at least 15 units) at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0.
Please be aware that federal financial aid is not available for some certificates if the certificate is pursued and completed as a stand-alone certificate (i.e., not completed concurrently with a degree program). See the "Details" tab for additional information.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 19 |
| Major GPA | 2.0 |
| Foreign Language | Required |
Purpose Statement
The Certificate Program in Spanish for Health Professions at Northern Arizona University equips students with a multifaceted skill set that prepares them for a diverse range of opportunities in the healthcare field. This not only addresses the immediate needs of the healthcare field but also empowers students to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare, making it more inclusive, culturally sensitive, and equitable. Graduates emerge as versatile professionals with the skills to address linguistic and cultural barriers in healthcare, contributing to improved health outcomes and greater access to quality care. Beyond achieving linguistic proficiency and cultural competence, this program opens doors to several promising future prospects, including Language -concordant healthcare providers; Cultural competence educators; Community health advocates; Research and policy development specialists; and Global health professionals.
Student Learning Outcomes
Take the following 19 units with a grade of "C" or better in each course.
This certificate may be pursued and completed concurrently with a degree program or as a stand-alone certificate. Federal financial aid cannot be used if the certificate is completed as a stand-alone certificate.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.