Optativa

Optativa is the feminine form of the adjective optativo in Spanish and Portuguese, meaning elective or optional. It derives from Latin optativus, related to optare, to wish or choose. In educational contexts, a subject or course described as optativa is one that a student may choose rather than one that is required as part of the core curriculum. The term is widely used in Spain and many Latin American countries to refer to elective subjects or courses.

In schools and universities, optativas allow students to tailor their studies to personal interests, career goals, or areas of specialization. Selection typically depends on factors such as prerequisites, course availability, and a credit or hour requirement. Optativas may count toward graduation or toward a specific track, depending on institutional rules. Some programs set a minimum number of optative credits, while others offer a broader range of options up to a maximum course load.

Regional usage varies slightly. In Portugal, the concept is similar, with curricula featuring disciplinas optativas. In Brazilian Portuguese, the common term is disciplina optativa, used in both high school and higher education. In Spanish-speaking contexts, phrases like asignaturas optativas or materias optativas are standard, with occasional references to cursos optativos in broader settings.

Beyond education, optativa can describe anything chosen rather than compulsory, such as optional features, activities, or options offered by products or services. The term emphasizes voluntariness and choice within a broader framework of requirements.