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.