Language and Culture Requirement

Language and Culture Requirements for Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music Degree and Certain B.S. Degree Candidates

  1. West Chester University believes that college students today require exposure to global cultures, and the University integrates this belief into courses and programs in various ways. Departments in the College of the Sciences and Mathematics, as well as the College of Business and Public Management, in particular, see a need for students earning bachelor of arts degrees to gain competency in language and cultures as a critical aspect of their education. The University provides options for these students based on varying levels of language competency deemed appropriate by major departments for study in their field. Questions regarding language requirements should be directed to the department chairperson.  A number of B.A. degree programs require a language proficiency gained from completing the second half of the intermediate year (202) of a language. At this level, students may be expected to have a working knowledge of the language and culture of a country. These programs are as follows:
    1. English
    2. Languages and Cultures (in a second language)
    3. History
    4. Linguistics Program
    5. Mathematics (limited to French, German, and Russian)
    6. Political Science (International Relations Concentration only)
  2. Other B.A. degree programs offer students the following options:
    1. Demonstrating language proficiency through the intermediate level (202) or
    2. Demonstrating language proficiency through the Elementary II (102) level of a language and further acquiring a cultural foundation through taking three culture cluster courses within the same language area. This option is available for the following languages:
      1. American Sign Language
      2. Arabic
      3. French
      4. German
      5. Greek
      6. Italian
      7. Latin
      8. Russian
      9. Spanish
    3. Each has an approved set of associated culture cluster courses. It is not necessary for students to complete the Elementary II (102) level before taking culture cluster courses.
  3. While this option does not give students the depth and focus of language study, the three courses will help them understand a culture. (In this option, students may elect to further their language skills by taking an additional semester of the language, plus two culture cluster courses.)
  4. Degree programs offering the culture cluster option are as follows: 
    1. Anthropology
    2. Communication and Media
    3. Communication Sciences and Disorders
    4. Interdisciplinary Studies
    5. Philosophy
    6. Political Science (Government & Politics Concentration only)
    7. Sociology
    8. Theatre and Dance
  5. Some B.S. degree programs also require a language. Students should see their advisors.
  6. The Department of Languages and Cultures handles testing and placement.
  7. Course substitutions to the language requirement of a department will be granted if the student meets one of the following criteria:
    1. The student is able to demonstrate proficiency through successful testing by the Department of Languages and Cultures.
    2. The student holds a diploma from a secondary education institution in another country. This institution must be at least the equivalent of a U.S. high school, and instruction must be in a language other than English.
    3. Students who may request course substitutions because of a disability should refer to "Services for Educational Accessibility."
    4. Students should take note of the policies regarding taking courses out of sequence.

Second degree students who have not met the language requirement in their prior degree program will be required to do so if a language requirement is part of their second degree program.  

Language Culture Clusters

Of the three required culture cluster courses, students who choose that option may take no more than two in the same department, except that only one may be taken in the department in which they major. Students are encouraged to begin taking their culture cluster courses as soon as possible. The 201 level of language courses is acceptable for use as one of the three culture cluster courses. Any exceptions to these conditions must be petitioned. A student may not use one course to simultaneously fulfill a general education distributive requirement and a culture cluster requirement.

American Sign Language Culture Cluster

COM

COM 295. Communication and Disability. 3 Credits.

This course explores how individuals communicate through and about disability. Topics covered include the place of perceptions, identity, language, non verbal behavior, and assistive technology in interpersonal communicative interactions among and about individuals with disabilities in family, friendship, and professional relationships.
Gen Ed Attribute: American Sign Language Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

DST

DST 255. Introduction to Deaf Studies. 3 Credits.

This course introduces students to topics central to the Deaf and Deaf community, including audiology, education, literature, history and media. Utilizing readings, lectures, and group discussion, students will learn about the anatomy and causes of deafness, early intervention and education of deaf children, communication strategies and their effectiveness, Deaf/Hearing relationships, and Deaf literature and media. Upon course completion, students will understand deaf individuals and their community in a holistic perspective and apply this knowledge toward their future studies into Deaf culture and ASL.
Gen Ed Attribute: American Sign Language Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

DST 355. Deaf History. 3 Credits.

The deaf experience is similar in many ways to the experience of many oppressed populations. Unique to the deaf experience is the mode of communication and the desire of hearing people to "fix problems" associated with deafness. This course will provide an in-depth investigation into the deaf experience. Specifically, this course will focus on historical aspects of deaf people and apply that knowledge to understanding the attitudes and expectations of deaf people today.
Gen Ed Attribute: American Sign Language Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

DST 357. Deaf Culture Perspectives. 3 Credits.

This course will cover a variety of issues related to the Deaf community. It will acquaint students with the history, traditions, and values within the culture of Deaf people. The history of deaf people will focus on struggles, cultural Vs pathological views, legislature and accomplishments. Traditions include the use of humor, success stories, behaviors, and empowerment. Values include the importance of Deaf culture's perspectives on education of deaf children, communication issues, technology, and preservation of American Sign Language.
Pre / Co requisites: DST 357 requires a prerequisite of CSD 110 or ASL 101.
Gen Ed Attribute: American Sign Language Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

DST 457. American Sign Language Literature. 3 Credits.

What do historical cultural storytelling, theatre/media, and poetry visually depict when introduced using one's hands, face, and body and without voice? How does art not only connect with ASL and the Deaf community but also demonstrate a deeply emotional and powerful experience? This course analyzes genres in their social and cultural contexts as expressions of Deaf identity and the Deaf experience, as well as how historical and current issues in Deaf culture are represented in literary form. Focus will be on art, traditional folklore, storytelling, poetry, drama, oratory, jokes, and nonfiction narrative.
Gen Ed Attribute: American Sign Language Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

KIN

KIN 254. Disability Studies: An Interdisciplinary Introduction. 3 Credits.

A study of the psychological and social implications of physical disabilities.
Gen Ed Attribute: American Sign Language Culture Cluster, Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

Arabic Culture Cluster

HIS

HIS 221. The Medieval Middle East. 3 Credits.

This course offers a survey of some of the most fascinating topics and heated debates of pre-modern Middle East history, covering the periods of Islamic Origins, Golden Age, and Global Connections. Students will analyze crucial moments in Islamic history and understand how these pre-modern roots have lasting effects on our world today.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arabic Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Humanities Distributive Requirement.
Typically offered in Fall.

HIS 222. The Modern Middle East. 3 Credits.

This course provides a general introduction to the modern Middle East, including topics such as European imperialism, nation-building, the Cold War, and the war on terror. Rooted in a global comparative perspective, the course highlights the Middle East as a diverse region, home to many religious traditions and cultural practices.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arabic Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Humanities Distributive Requirement.
Typically offered in Spring.

HIS 381. The Forgotten Queens of Islam. 3 Credits.

Students will learn about prominent women in Islamic history, with a focus on the medieval period. Students will learn to read historical texts "against the grain" through the lens of feminist history.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arabic Culture Cluster, Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses HIS 381, WOS 381.

PHI

PHI 220. Introduction to Islam. 3 Credits.

This course is an introduction to Islam as a prophetic religious tradition. Students will begin the course with an overview of Islam and how the Western discourses see it. They will then learn about the beliefs, tenants, and the teachings of Islam, as well as about the life of the Prophet Muhammad, hadith, and the Qur'an. Subsequently, students will delve into some of the most significant topics related to the classical and post-classical Islamic tradition: theology, Sufism, law, and gender. They will conclude the course by examining Islamophobia in the post-911 era.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arabic Culture Cluster, Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Humanities Distributive Requirement.
Typically offered in Spring.

WOS

WOS 381. The Forgotten Queens of Islam. 3 Credits.

Students will learn about prominent women in Islamic history, with a focus on the medieval period. Students will learn to read historical texts "against the grain" through the lens of feminist history.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arabic Culture Cluster, Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses HIS 381, WOS 381.

Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster

ARH

ARH 382. Art of Greece and Rome. 3 Credits.

The art and architecture of the Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

CLS

CLS 201. Classical Greco Roman Myth in 20th Century Arts. 3 Credits.

The study of Greeks and Roman mythology and its' influence on 20th and 21st century Western culture.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Writing Emphasis.

CLS 367. Classical Greco Roman Mythology. 3 Credits.

A survey of Greek and Roman mythology from Homer to Ovid.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Writing Emphasis.

CLS 368. Greco Roman, Culture, Myth & Society. 3 Credits.

The study of the Trojan War myth cycle in Greek and Roman mythology through literature, history, and art from Homer through the Latin Middle Ages and the way this myth reflects the culture and society of the texts in question.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Writing Emphasis.

HIS

HIS 318. The Ancient World. 3 Credits.

Classical Greece and Rome with consideration of economic, social, intellectual, and political history. Selected writings of the ancients.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.

HIS 319. Medieval Europe. 3 Credits.

Western Europe from the fall of Rome to approximately 1300. Economic, social, political, and intellectual developments in the major kingdoms of the West; the history of the Universal Church.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.

PHI

PHI 270. History of Ancient Philosophy. 3 Credits.

A survey of the major figures of ancient philosophy, from the pre-Socratic period through Plato, Aristotle, the Epicureans, and Stoics, to the Skeptics and Neo-Platonists.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

PHI 271. History of Medieval Philosophy. 3 Credits.

The history of philosophy from the early Church fathers to the late Middle Ages. St. Augustine, St. Thomas, mysticism, Jewish and Islamic influences, humanism, and the rise of science.
Gen Ed Attribute: Classical Civilizations Culture Cluster, Foreign Language Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

French and Francophone Area Culture Cluster

ARH

ARH 383. Medieval Art. 3 Credits.

This course will introduce students to the visual arts of the Medieval period and will enable students to think critically about how art and architecture was used as a means of communicating religious, social, cultural, and political ideas. Works of art and architecture will be examined in their original physical, geographical, sociological, and historical contexts. At the same time, students will consider how Medieval art and architecture still has resonance and meaning in the contemporary world.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

ARH 385. 18th and 19th Century Art. 3 Credits.

From David to Rodin: the rise and development of the Romantic style and its struggle with orthodox Classicism.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EFR

EFR 301. United in Cultural Diversity: France and Germany in the European Union. 3 Credits.

This is a travel course that takes students to Paris, Brussels, Berlin, and Frankfurt to culturally examine how France and Germany are united in their many layers of diversity along ethnic and religious lines, and questions of gender and sexual orientation. Readings and screenings of culturally significant texts along with onsite visits and discussions will help students understand and identify the diversity of the EU's two most influential countries.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Winter.
Cross listed courses EFR 301, EGE 301.

EFR 320. French Civilization (In English). 3 Credits.

(In English) A study of France's political and educational systems and economic and religious institutions with emphasis on contemporary aspects.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement.
Typically offered in Fall.

EFR 322. French Food: The History and Mysteries of French Cuisine. 3 Credits.

Why is French food considered a world heritage? How did it achieve such a status? Students will explore the origins of French cuisine, its evolution, and its current situation in a global economy to evaluate the enduring qualities of this important aspect of French culture. This study of French food will serve as a guiding thread to learning more about history, the arts, gender roles, tourism, politics, trade, immigration, and colonialism. No knowledge of French is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EFR 330. Francophone Cultures West Africa-Caribbn. 3 Credits.

A multidisciplinary approach to the cultures and civilizations of Francophone countries in West Africa and the Caribbean, including historical and geographical factors, religious and sociological structures, and literary and artistic production.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

EFR 350. French Civilization on Film. 3 Credits.

(In English) A study of French history and culture as reflected in French and French-speaking cinema.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

EGE

EGE 301. United in Cultural Diversity: Germany and France in the European Union. 3 Credits.

This is a travel course that takes students to Paris, Brussels, Berlin, and Frankfurt to culturally examine how France and Germany are united in their many layers of diversity along ethnic and religious lines, and questions of gender and sexual orientation. Readings and screenings of culturally significant texts along with onsite visits and discussions will help students understand and identify the diversity of the EU's two most influential countries.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Winter.
Cross listed courses EFR 301, EGE 301.

GEO

GEO 303. Geography of Europe. 3 Credits.

A survey course focusing on the regional geography of Europe. The course includes and examination of the physical environment, cultural traditions, lifestyles, economies, urban environment and political change throughout the region.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

HIS

HIS 328. The French Revolution and Napoleon. 3 Credits.

A study of key social, political, and cultural themes of the French Revolution from its origins during the ancient regime to the fall of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

HIS 427. Modern France: 1789 To Present. 3 Credits.

A survey of modern France from the Revolutionary era through the turbulent 19th century to the post-World War II recovery. Major themes include the social cultural political, and economic aspects of modern and contemporary France.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

PHI

PHI 415. Existentialism. 3 Credits.

An exploration of important texts in 19th century and 20th century existentialism and their influence on contemporary currents in philosophy and social sciences.
Pre / Co requisites: PHI 415 requires prerequisite of 2 PHI courses.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

PSC

PSC 342. European Politics. 3 Credits.

Comparative analysis of political cultures, parties, and decision-making processes in principal European political systems. Strong focus on major European nation states: France, Germany, UK and Italy. Additional attention given to the European Union.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

German Culture Cluster

EFR

EFR 301. United in Cultural Diversity: France and Germany in the European Union. 3 Credits.

This is a travel course that takes students to Paris, Brussels, Berlin, and Frankfurt to culturally examine how France and Germany are united in their many layers of diversity along ethnic and religious lines, and questions of gender and sexual orientation. Readings and screenings of culturally significant texts along with onsite visits and discussions will help students understand and identify the diversity of the EU's two most influential countries.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Winter.
Cross listed courses EFR 301, EGE 301.

EGE

EGE 301. United in Cultural Diversity: Germany and France in the European Union. 3 Credits.

This is a travel course that takes students to Paris, Brussels, Berlin, and Frankfurt to culturally examine how France and Germany are united in their many layers of diversity along ethnic and religious lines, and questions of gender and sexual orientation. Readings and screenings of culturally significant texts along with onsite visits and discussions will help students understand and identify the diversity of the EU's two most influential countries.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Winter.
Cross listed courses EFR 301, EGE 301.

EGE 323. Austrian Civilization. 3 Credits.

An interdisciplinary study of Austrian civilization, focusing on Vienna 1848-1938. The relationship of selected cultural and intellectual developments to their political and social contexts. This course employs the perspective of many disciplines but is specifically concerned with the humanities and visual arts.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EGE 404. Artists as Conscience: Postwar Lit/Film. 3 Credits.

An examination of the political and social issues of contemporary Germany through an analysis of literary and cinematic texts. Discussion topics include the Holocaust, Nazism, the Second World War, the Economic Miracle, the Cold War, terrorism, the feminist and peace movements, atomic warfare, and German reunification and its aftermath. No knowledge of German required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.

EGE 405. German Film: Expressionism to Contemporary German Film. 3 Credits.

An analysis of German films from Expressionism to the present. Students shall examine the films in terms of their political and social context and as works of art. Directors include Fritz Lang, Murnau, Wiene, Fassbinder, Herzog, Schlondorff, von Trotta, and Wenders. No knowledge of German required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arts Distributive Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall.

EGE 409. Impact of Holocaust on Lit and Film. 3 Credits.

This course studies the causes and effects of the Holocaust through literary, philosophical, and cinematic works of post-war Europe and America. No knowledge of German required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.

GEO

GEO 303. Geography of Europe. 3 Credits.

A survey course focusing on the regional geography of Europe. The course includes and examination of the physical environment, cultural traditions, lifestyles, economies, urban environment and political change throughout the region.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

HIS

HIS 323. Austrian Civilization. 3 Credits.

An interdisciplinary study of Austrian civilization, 1848-1938. Emphasis is placed on fin-de-siecle Vienna, not only as its pivotal role in Austrian culture but also as a testing ground for modernism in the West.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

HIS 423. Modern Germany. 3 Credits.

Germany in the 19th and 20th centuries: Napoleonic era, rise of Prussia, nationalism and unification, imperialism and World War I, National Socialism, World War II, and divided Germany.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

PHI

PHI 272. History of Modern Philosophy. 3 Credits.

From Descartes to Hegel. The social, political, and scientific impact of the philosophers.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

PHI 273. 19th Century Philosophy. 3 Credits.

Hegel and German Idealism; decisive influences on European and American literature and thought. Survey of the chief themes of Schopenhauer, Comte, Mill, Spencer, Marx, Kierkegaard, Darwin, and Nietzsche.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

PSC

PSC 342. European Politics. 3 Credits.

Comparative analysis of political cultures, parties, and decision-making processes in principal European political systems. Strong focus on major European nation states: France, Germany, UK and Italy. Additional attention given to the European Union.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

Italian Culture Cluster

ARH

ARH 384. Art of Renaissance-Baroque. 3 Credits.

Study of the art forms of the 15th through 17th centuries in Europe as they affected social and religious cross currents and the rise of the role of the artist in society.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EIT

EIT 321. Images of Italy. 3 Credits.

(In English) An overview of Italian geography, history, and regional cultures, along with its literary, philosophical, scientific, and artistic manifestations and contributions to the world.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

EIT 333. Beyond The Godfather: New Perspectives on the Italian Mafia. 3 Credits.

The term "Mafia" has become imbued with legend and myth through its widespread representation in popular and fictional narratives. The glamorized image of the mafioso, especially in American films such as The Godfather or Goodfellas, has distorted the true nature and scope of the Mafia. Through a selection of contemporary Italian novels and films, this course will explore the representation of the Mafia in historical, cultural, and gendered perspectives.
Gen Ed Attribute: Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

EIT 360. Italian Cinema. 3 Credits.

A study of Italian cinema history and culture as seen through a selection of feature films. The primary aim of this course is to develop students' knowledge of the historical, cultural, and technical contexts in which Italian films and cultures have transformed within Italy and the rest of the world. Students will be introduced to themes and styles of Italian cinema from the rise of Fascism through the present.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arts Distributive Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

GEO

GEO 303. Geography of Europe. 3 Credits.

A survey course focusing on the regional geography of Europe. The course includes and examination of the physical environment, cultural traditions, lifestyles, economies, urban environment and political change throughout the region.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

PSC

PSC 342. European Politics. 3 Credits.

Comparative analysis of political cultures, parties, and decision-making processes in principal European political systems. Strong focus on major European nation states: France, Germany, UK and Italy. Additional attention given to the European Union.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, France & Francophone Area Culture Cluster, Germany Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

THA

THA 410. Behind the Mask: Revelations of Italian Culture Through Renaissance Theatre Practices. 3 Credits.

Students will travel to Italy to study Italian Renaissance Theatre and to perform in the very streets and city squares where Italian Renaissance actors performed 500 years ago. In doing so, students will gain a better understanding of Italian culture. Classes will be taught in Commedia dell'Arte, Italian Puppetry, Ancient Greek Theatre, Stage Combat, Mask Making, and Puppet Construction. Several supplemental courses may be taught in Archery, Italian Language, Physical Fitness for the Physical Theatre, Tarantella (Italian Folk Dance) and Italian Cooking.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Italy (Italian) Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Summer.

Russian and Eastern European Culture Cluster

ERU

ERU 309. Russian Culture. 3 Credits.

(In English) A course designed to acquaint students with Russian culture and life in Russia today. No knowledge of Russian required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Russia & Eastern Europe Culture Cluster, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

GEO

GEO 304. Geography of Asia. 3 Credits.

This course is a survey course focusing on the geography of Asia. This course utilizes a systematic approach to understanding Asia's geography and includes an examination of the physical environment, the cultural traditions, lifestyles, economies, development, and urban environment throughout the Asia region. The course focuses on the regions of South, Central, East, and Southeast Asia. Russia and the eastern countries of the former Soviet Union are also covered.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Russia & Eastern Europe Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring & Summer.

HIS

HIS 224. Reform and Revolution in Imperial Russia. 3 Credits.

Focusing on the Russian Empire from the reforms of Peter the Great in the early eighteenth century to the overthrow of the Romanov dynasty in 1917, the course examines the experiences and perspectives of the empire's diverse peoples. It immerses students in the world of imperial Russia via role-playing simulations and the analysis of primary sources. Students develop the critical skills of reading, writing, and speaking from the perspective of a historian and from the perspective of multiple historical figures in conventional and creative genres.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Humanities Distributive Requirement, Russia & Eastern Europe Culture Cluster, Speaking Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

HIS 324. Race & Nation in the Russian Empire. 3 Credits.

Focusing on the formation of a vast and diverse Russian empire in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the course explores tensions between an emerging sense of Russian national identity and the racialized practices that sustained imperial rule. It includes substantive study of peasants, workers, women, ethnic, national and religious minorities, and colonized peoples. As students analyze and interpret the multiple ways in which the empire's marginalized peoples experienced and resisted structural inequalities, they develop skills in historical thinking, writing, and speaking.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Russia & Eastern Europe Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

HIS 425. Twentieth-Century Russia. 3 Credits.

Its rise and fall in light of traditional Russian patterns and the communist experiment.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Russia & Eastern Europe Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

PSC

PSC 346. Russian Government and Politics. 3 Credits.

Marxism-Leninism, the functioning of the political system, and its domination of all areas of Soviet life. Some brief attention to the conduct of Soviet foreign policy.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Russia & Eastern Europe Culture Cluster.

Spanish Culture Cluster

ANT

ANT 224. Native People of South America. 3 Credits.

This course will introduce the student to the study of native peoples of South America after the European contact. Geographically, the course will cover the cultural characteristics, similarities, and differences among South American natives including the Amazonia.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

ANT 322. Ethnology of Central America. 3 Credits.

Survey of the modern cultures of Central America: relationships to ancient peoples; the process of modernization in this area.
Pre / Co requisites: ANT 322 requires prerequisite of ANT 102.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ANT 324. Native People of the Andes. 3 Credits.

This course provides a comprehensive survey of the historical formation and development of the Andean society before and after the Spanish conquest.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

ANT 362. Archaeology of Central America. 3 Credits.

The archaeological record of Central America, covering the significant features of each culture area from modern Mexico to Panama.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

ARH

ARH 220. Introduction to Latin American Art. 3 Credits.

This course provides an introduction to the art, architecture, and visual culture of Latin America from the colonial to the contemporary period. The course begins with an overview of ancient indigenous (Pre-Columbian) art of Mesoamerica and the Andes, followed by an exploration of art of the colonial era when native artists adapt their styles and techniques to reflect European artistic trends. The course will conclude with an examination of 19th and 20th century art when artists responded to changing political and cultural movements and through interactions with modern and contemporary artistic trends from abroad.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster, Writing Emphasis.
Typically offered in Spring.

CLS

CLS 333. Latina Writing. 3 Credits.

An examination of the literary works produced by Latinas in the 20th century. The study of this literature will include a cross-cultural approach that will elucidate sociopolitical themes emerging from the texts.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

CLS 334. Politics and Economics Lit of Modern Amer. 3 Credits.

A comparative historical and literary examination of political and economic issues reflected in 20th century U.S. and Latin American literature. The study of representative texts of various genres will also elucidate issues of race, class and gender.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.

CLS 335. Latino Literature in the U.S.. 3 Credits.

This course examines the history of Latino groups (e.g. Mexicans, Cubans and South Americans) in the U.S. through literary texts written by Latinos and studies the cultural, economic and political experiences leading to their acculturation or alienation in mainstream America.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.
Cross listed courses CLS 335, ESP 335.

DAN

DAN 380. Cuban Rumba: Cultural Identity. 3 Credits.

This course is a theory and practice course, designed for students interested in exploring the layered social and cultural history of Cuba, through the lens of its national dance, the rumba. Cuban rumba is made up of three different dances: guaguanco, yambu, and columbia; which this course will focus on embodying, while simultaneously examining its history and place within society. Inside the theoretical conversations, the focus will shift and build from its African and Spanish lineage to social repression on the island, architecture as a container for community and performance, gender agency, and cultural identity appropriation.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.

ESP

ESP 300. Latin-American Culture and Civilization (In English). 3 Credits.

Cultural, geographic, literary, philosophical, and artistic manifestations of the Hispanic-American world. No knowledge of Spanish is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Spanish Culture Cluster, Writing Emphasis.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ESP 303. Convivencia: Muslims, Jews, and Christians in Medieval Spain. 3 Credits.

This course focuses on the culture of the southern portion of the Iberian Peninsula (today, Spain and Portugal), known as Al-Andalus, where Christians, Jews, and Muslims lived together from the 8th to the 15th centuries. Through the study of historical, religious, and artistic materials, political and social events, and architectural and literary works, the course examines the display of multicultural identities in Medieval Europe. All course materials are in English.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ESP 305. Spanish Cinema. 3 Credits.

This course will investigate the ways in which films participate in and create debates about the relationship between national identification, class, and gender. No knowledge of Spanish is required; taught in English.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arts Distributive Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

ESP 306. Representations of the Spanish Civil War. 3 Credits.

A study of how political activism in and outside of Spain created debates about the relationship between national culture(s), society, politics, and "official" versions of history.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.

ESP 309. Latin America on Film (in English). 3 Credits.

This course explores contemporary Latin American film production in order to foster a better understanding of Latin American cultures and history while investigating complex power dynamics in Latin American societies. Films will be the points of departure to address critical issues such as history, culture, politics, economics, and religion; ethnic diversity, gender, class-based and racial conflicts; violence, dictatorship, and revolution; and the place of Latin America in an increasingly globalized world. No knowledge of Spanish is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Arts Distributive Requirement, Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

ESP 310. Latin American Narrative from the European Conquest to 1930s. 3 Credits.

This course is an overview of the literature of Latin America from the arrival of European conquerors through the early 20th century. Throughout the semester, students will focus on narratives of encounter and conquest, life in the Colonial period, early republican literatures in Spanish American countries, and life in Imperial Brazil, as well as texts from the first half of the 20th century. Students will reflect on geographic ideological perspectives on "America" and "Latin America," cultural and religious mixes (hybridism, syncretism), indigenismo, and the concept of identity in regional, national, ethnic, and gender matters.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

ESP 311. Contemporary Latin American Narrative. 3 Credits.

An examination of Latin American narrative (short story, novella, novel, and testimonial literature). Spanish- and Portuguese-language writers from South and Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean will be studied, from the period of magical realism (1950s and 1960s) through the present. They may include Isabel Allende, Jorge Amado, Miguel Angel Asturias, Jorge Luis Borges, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Clarice Lispector, Elena Poniatowska, and Luis Rafael Sanchez.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ESP 316. Latin American Avant-Gardes and Mass Media. 3 Credits.

An exploration of the groundbreaking avant-garde artistic practices and the technological innovations of mass media from the early 1900s to today in Latin America with a focus on structural inequality in the region. Course studies the historical origins and transformation of concepts such as "originality," "individuality," and "the new" to understand how they acquired political, economic, social, and cultural value in modern Latin America. No knowledge of Spanish is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

ESP 317. Utopia and Apocalypse in the Americas. 3 Credits.

What will the future hold in store for humanity: utopia or apocalypse? Toward what type of future society should we aim in the present? This course is taught from multiple perspectives and will foster thoughtful reflection on what it means to belong to a community as expressed in cultural texts and media from the Spanish-speaking Americas, including travel narratives to unknown lands, utopian treatises, science-fiction and fantasy stories, and real-world attempts to construct utopian societies. No knowledge of Spanish is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Ethics Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

ESP 318. Speaking Spanish in the United States. 3 Credits.

A course on the different historical, social and cultural issues related to the use of Spanish in the United States alongside other languages, mainly English, including the centuries-long presence of the language, and phenomena such as bilingualism, code-switching, language shift and language death. This course is taught entirely in English.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ESP 319. Cultural Realities of Spain. 3 Credits.

A study of the origins and evolution of Spanish character, tradition, and thought as a result of its multi-cultural past and present. The interrelationship of its history and arts. The scope of its contribution to Western culture. No knowledge of Spanish is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ESP 324. Latinos in the U.S.. 3 Credits.

An interdisciplinary examination of Latinas/Latinos in the U.S. Course examines the changing cultural, historical, political, and economic situations of several Hispanic groups, including Central Americans, Cubans, Mexicans, and Puerto Ricans.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Interdisciplinary Requirement, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ESP 333. Latina Writing. 3 Credits.

An examination of the literary works produced by Latinas in the 20th century. The study of this literature will include a cross-cultural approach that will elucidate sociopolitical themes emerging from the texts. No knowledge of Spanish is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.

ESP 334. Politics & Economics Lit Of Modern Amer. 3 Credits.

(also CLS 334) A comparative historical and literary examination of political and economic issues reflected in 20th century U.S. and Latin American literature. The study of representative texts of various genres will also elucidate issues of race, class and gender. No knowledge of Spanish is required.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall.

ESP 335. Latino Literatures in the US. 3 Credits.

This course examines the history of Latino groups (e.g., Mexicans, Cubans, and South Americans) in the U.S. through literary texts written by Latinos, and studies the cultural, economic, and political experiences leading to their acculturation or alienation in mainstream America.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Spring.
Cross listed courses CLS 335, ESP 335.

GEO

GEO 302. Geography of Latin America. 3 Credits.

Central and South America are studied with emphasis on geographic understanding of the major sources of change in recent times. The course focuses on selected individual countries in addition to presentation of the region as a whole.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter.

HIS

HIS 315. Colonial Latin America. 3 Credits.

Pre-Columbian period, colonial Latin America, and movements for independence; Indian, European, and African backgrounds; government, economy, society, religion, culture, and enlightenment. Interaction of diverse cultures in the New World.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

HIS 316. Modern Latin America. 3 Credits.

Latin America in the 19th and 20th centuries; liberalism, conservatism, dictatorship, revolution, socialism, industrialization, agrarian reform, cultural-intellectual achievements, and international relations. Topical approach, using individual countries as case history illustrations.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

HIS 317. History of Mexico. 3 Credits.

Mexico from Pre-Columbian period to present, including civilizations of Mayas and Aztecs, Spanish conquest, Colonial period, movement for independence era of Santa Ana, La Reforma, Diaz dictatorship, Mexican Revolution, cultural-intellectual achievements, international relations, and modernization of Mexico since the Revolution.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.

PSC

PSC 340. Latin American Culture and Politics. 3 Credits.

This course invites students to conduct comparative analysis of political cultures, parties, and decision-making, ideologies and political processes across the Latin American region. Students will learn how to explain the complexities of race, class and gender in Latin American social structures, relating historical, economic and cultural legacies to analysis on contemporary issues.
Gen Ed Attribute: Diversity Requirement, Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall, Spring & Summer.

PSC 353. Latinx Politics. 3 Credits.

This is a "hands on" course for upper-level social science students as research methods are explored and put into practice in coordination with local organizations working with Latinx peoples. Service learning projects with Latinx people and/or Latinx-led organizations in the region are required. Content material includes demographics of Hispanics in the United States, critical theories from Latinx perspectives, interdisciplinary immigration studies, and Latinx perspectives in relation to social welfare, education, employment, crimes and justice, and politics.
Consent: Permission of the Department required to add.
Gen Ed Attribute: Foreign Language Culture Cluster, Spanish Culture Cluster.
Distance education offering may be available.
Typically offered in Fall & Spring.