Frequently Asked Questions

Doctorate in Philosophy in Second Language Research

What is the degree that will be offered?
Is this a TESL or TESOL program?
- No, it is not. The program focuses on any second language, not just English, and in many other areas of second language use and users, not just the educational environment.

Is the program offered completely online (distance education)?
- o Yes, the program does not require your presence on campus, and it does not have any residency requirements.
Is the program accredited?
- Yes, it is accredited. It has been licensed by the Puerto Rico Council on Higher Education and Inter American University of Puerto Rico’s Ponce Campus is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) . For more information, please visit MSCHE.ORG. In addtion, the Ponce Campus is a member of the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA).

Is the degree offered by the Ponce Campus?
- Yes, it is offered exclusively at Inter American University’s Ponce Campus and the only Ph.D. in Second Language Research offered online Puerto Rico.

How many credits is the program?
- The degree consists of 33 credits, but if needed you may enroll in extension courses (3 at 1 credit each)
Where can I find the curricuar sequence?
- The curricular sequence can be found here.
Is the program offered by semester or trimester?
- The program is offered by trimester.
What are the admissions requirements and where can I find the admissions documents?
- This program has some very specific admissions requirements. The applicant will need to prove that s/he has research experience and is bilingual among other things. More information can be found here.
What makes this program different from others?
- In this program, students can research any second language, not just English, and a variety of language scenarios, not just the classroom.
- The program will require students to produce a publication quality research article in the majority of the courses. The idea is to help students become published authors as quickly as possible.
- Most of the courses have a significant amount of mentoring versus instruction.
Does the degree require approval of a comprehensive exam?
- No, the degree does not require approval of a comprehensive exam as part of the graduation requirements.
How long will it take to complete the doctoral degree?
- Depending on the complexity of your dissertation topic and the number of courses you take per trimester, the time for complete is between 2 ½ to 3 ½ years (7-14 trimesters).
Can I transfer courses from other doctorates?
- Due to the nature of the program, the transfer of course from other programs is unlikely, but will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
How will my admissions application be evaluated?
- A committee of professionals from the fields of second language research, linguistics and research methodology will evaluate your research experience, and the evidence you present with regards to your proficiency in English and another language. In addition, they will evaluate your academic transcripts for other admissions requirements. If the committee feels it is necessary, a videoconference will be arranged for a virtual interview.
Do I need to take an admissions exam?
- No, you do not need to take a graduate school admissions exam (EXADEP, GRE, etc.); however, you may opt to take a language proficiency exam in order to meet the English plus other language proficiency requirements (TOEFL, iELTS, etc.).
What language will be used to offer the courses?
- English.
Do I need to take a statistics course?
- One of the admissions requirements is to have passed, as part of your previous degree requirements, a statistics course at the graduate or undergraduate level with at least a B (3.00). If your transcript does not reflect this, then you will need to take a statistics course at the graduate level before you are admitted. Your admission will be provisional until you have completed this requirement.
Is a Juris Doctor considered as a master’s degree?
- Yes.
If my degree isn’t in languages or linguistics, can I still apply for the program?
- Yes, you may apply if you can demonstrate prior research experience, and bilingual proficiency; however, you may be required to take an introductory linguistics course at the graduate level. In this case, your admission will be provisional until you have completed the requisite.

What is the cost per credit and what is the total cost for the program?
- The current cost per credit (2016) is $305 (USD) per credit. The total cost of the program will depend upon the number of credits you take per trimester, and how long it takes you to complete your degree (the fees are per trimester). An estimated cost for the program is between $13,500 – $15,500 (USD). Please view the proposed Financial Plans for a clearer idea of tuition and fees. Note: The Institution reserves the right to make changes in tuition, fees and other charges.
Are student loans available?
- Please see the section on Financial Aid for information on available sources of financing your studies including loans.
To clarify any doubts I might have or to request additional information, who should I contact?
- You may access the following page for contact information: Graduate Program Contacts.
  You may also call us Monday-Thursday from 9:00am - 6:00pm and Friday from 8:00am-5:00 pm at 787-259 -1490 or 787-284-1912 Ext. 3245.