Bilingual Health Scholarly Concentration

Overview

The Bilingual Health Scholarly Concentration (BHSC) offers a longitudinal, four-year curriculum that integrates Spanish language skills into medical training. It strengthens clinical communication, enhances cultural competence, and prepares students to effectively care for Spanish-speaking patients. Graduates gain the skills and confidence to deliver high-quality, linguistically responsive care and make a meaningful impact in Texas and communities locally and globally.

Program Description

Upon completion, students will graduate with:

  • Demonstrated proficiency in applying Spanish medical terminology in patient care and education
  • A Certificate of Completion, recognized in the commencement program
  • A graduation cord symbolizing their achievement

Curriculum

The Bilingual Health Scholarly Concentration curriculum requires students to complete 5 points.

Pathways

Beginner
Basic High – Intermediate High
Advanced
Intermediate High – Advanced

Years 1-2 & Summer Preceptorship

Volunteer

  • St. Vincent's Clinic – 10 visits (1 point)
  • Pregnancy Health Center – 10 visits (1 point)
  • Salud Para Todos (SPT) Training Program (1 point)

Summer Preceptorships

Clinics serving predominantly Spanish-speaking patient populations (>40%) in Texas or the U.S. (1-2 points)

Year 4 Requirements

Clinical electives serving predominantly Spanish-speaking patient populations (>40%) in Texas or the U.S. (1-2 points)

Mandatory

BSHS MEHU 4411 (1 point)

Additional Requirements (Advanced Pathway):
  • Clinical Conversational Spanish Online/Virtual Course: BLHU 4001 (1 point)
  • International Longitudinal Interactive Virtual Course: Clinical English/Spanish Language Exchange (BLHU 4003) (2 points)

Capstone & Engagement

Attend 10 approved Capstone presentations (1 point) from the following eligible concentrations: Bilingual Health, Rural Health, Public Health, Community Engagement, or Global Health.

Stay informed via:

  • Teams Announcements
  • Email Communications

Tracking & Completion

Log all progress in the Teams Class Notebook.

Total Required

The total required to graduate as a BHSC Scholar is 5 points.

How to Apply

Students may apply at any time, preferably after their first required JSSOM course, by submitting the Bilingual Health Scholarly Concentration Application Form.

Contact Information

Norma A. Pérez, MD, DrPH, CPC Concentration Director


noaperez@utmb.edu