Spanish for Health Professionals

  • Undergraduate Certificate
  • College of Arts & Letters
  • Department of World Languages & Cultures
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Next Start Date
August 24, 2026
Accelerated Courses

Why ODU for Spanish for Health Professionals?

Learn how to communicate clearly and respectfully with Spanish-speaking patients through our practical, online certificate.

Cultural Sensibility vs. Fluent Spanish

Our medical certificate will help you develop cultural responsiveness and cultural sensitivity, not just language fluency. You will gain the linguistic skills and cultural awareness required by federal CLAS guidelines to provide equitable and effective healthcare to the Spanish-speaking community in the United States.

You'll have an opportunity to practice Spanish for healthcare settings through a short internship experience with real-world engagement.

Our accelerated courses are designed for busy learners who need flexible, focused training. You'll be supported by experienced Spanish faculty as you build Spanish language skills that can support your healthcare career and the patients you serve.

For working professionals, this certificate can be a fast way to add a valuable skill set and improve patient care. For students and recent graduates, it can help strengthen a resume before entering the healthcare field.

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Program Information

Total
12 Credit Hours

You will take four core courses to complete this certificate:

  • Spanish for Health Professions
  • Two courses in Medical Spanish
  • Internship (10 hours/week)

If you don't already have some Spanish proficiency (Intermediate Low on the ACTFL® scale), you must complete one or two introductory courses in Spanish for Health Professionals before taking the four core courses.

Accelerated Courses

Courses in this program follow an accelerated 8-week format.

Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. You will access course materials and complete assignments online. The instructor may schedule specific deadlines for assignments or specific times to take exams.

Healthcare employers increasingly value professionals who can support clear, respectful communication with Spanish-speaking patients. This certificate may be a good fit for:

  • Nurses and nurse practitioners 
  • Physicians and physician assistants 
  • Medical assistants and health technicians 
  • Public health specialists and community health workers 
  • Healthcare administrators and patient advocates 
  • Mental health counselors and social workers 
  • Career switchers interested in healthcare 
  • Recent graduates who want to stand out in the job market

Total
12 Credit Hours

You will take four core courses to complete this certificate:

  • Spanish for Health Professions
  • Two courses in Medical Spanish
  • Internship (10 hours/week)

If you don't already have some Spanish proficiency (Intermediate Low on the ACTFL® scale), you must complete one or two introductory courses in Spanish for Health Professionals before taking the four core courses.

Accelerated Courses

Courses in this program follow an accelerated 8-week format.

Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. You will access course materials and complete assignments online. The instructor may schedule specific deadlines for assignments or specific times to take exams.

Healthcare employers increasingly value professionals who can support clear, respectful communication with Spanish-speaking patients. This certificate may be a good fit for:

  • Nurses and nurse practitioners 
  • Physicians and physician assistants 
  • Medical assistants and health technicians 
  • Public health specialists and community health workers 
  • Healthcare administrators and patient advocates 
  • Mental health counselors and social workers 
  • Career switchers interested in healthcare 
  • Recent graduates who want to stand out in the job market

Cost & Aid

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Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$268 per credit hour*
Out-of-State Students
$444 per credit hour

Active duty military students may qualify for a discounted undergraduate tuition rate.

These tuition rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change. 

Explore ODUGlobal Cost & Aid
Military Cost & Aid

* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarship & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 

Learn more about our scholarships

Undergraduate Certificate Enrollment

Our dedicated enrollment team will guide your transition to ODUGlobal.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

Ready to Apply?

To take courses for this certificate, you must apply to ODU as a non-degree seeking student.

Already studying with ODUGlobal? Talk to your advisor about adding this certificate to your degree plan.

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