WYOMISSING, Pa. — When Miranda Hillyard enrolled as a student at Penn State Berks, she wanted to diversify her skill set, and the Certificate in Spanish for Healthcare seemed like the perfect solution. She graduated in the spring of 2022 with a baccalaureate degree in sociology, a minor in Spanish, and a specialized certificate that gives her an added advantage in the job market.

The Naperville, Illinois native began her education at Penn State Berks, and that’s where she learned about the Certificate in Spanish for Healthcare. She was able to continue her studies in the certificate program through hybrid learning when she moved on to the University Park campus to complete her degree program.

“I decided to complete the Certificate in Spanish for Healthcare because I was looking to get into recruiting after graduation,” explained Hillyard. “I thought that having this certificate would help me if I worked at a recruiting firm or staffing agency that focused on the healthcare field.”

She added, “I think this certificate helps me in everyday life, knowing different medical terms and cultural differences. This can also benefit me in the future if I travel to Spanish-speaking countries.”

Students from any Penn State major or program may sign up to take the four courses that complete the Penn State Berks Certificate in Spanish for Healthcare. The program benefits students who wish to enhance their speaking, reading, writing, and translating skills to use as professionals in healthcare and human services fields. In addition, the certificate complements many academic and professional fields, and serves as a useful credential for the job market.

“I appreciate how easy it was to add this certificate to my degree, and the benefits it adds for my life and potentially to further my career,” Hillyard said.

For more information on the Certificate in Spanish for Healthcare, contact Dr. Maria Fellie via email at MCF46@psu.edu.