Department of World Languages and Literatures
Chair: Dr. Julian Arribas
The Department of World Languages and Literatures offers a multifaceted language program that will meet the diverse global challenges facing students of the 21st century. The department offers programs of study leading to the degree of Bachelor of Arts in World Languages with concentrations in French, Spanish, Japanese and Applied Professional Spanish. The department offers minor programs in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish and Spanish for Business, as well as a Certificate of Spanish for Specific Purposes. There are also opportunities for students to take courses in Arabic, Italian, Portuguese, and courses about world cultures and literatures in English. Additional courses in world languages may be taken through the Birmingham Area Consortium for Higher Education (BACHE). Promoting a comprehensive view of world cultures, languages and literatures enhances the students’ ability to compete in the job market and/or pursue graduate or professional studies.
Our programs are rooted in diversity within and across cultures, and foster the international exchange of knowledge and information between humanities scholars, teachers and other professionals. Our instructional methods are aligned with national standards. The world language experience at UAB includes classroom learning, scholarship and research, experiential learning, and extracurricular opportunities.
The UAB Department of World Languages and Literatures offers traditional language, culture, civilization, linguistics and literature classes and also enrolls students in such fields as literature in translation, film and cultural studies, foreign media and society, US Latino topics, applied linguistics and languages for the professions.
The department also offers an Honors Track Program and internships in World Languages to students in the Applied Professional Spanish concentration and Spanish for Specific Purposes, and for qualified majors with Departmental approval. Furthermore, we promote and sponsor opportunities for study abroad in conjunction with UAB Education Abroad programs. UAB Distinguished Professor Emeritus of French, William C. Carter has built one of the world's largest collections of books by and about French author Marcel Proust. The collection is housed on campus in Mervyn H. Sterne Library and includes original letters and other documents.
For more information about our programs, online placement exams, internships, events and sponsored study abroad opportunities, visit the Department of World Languages and Literatures web site at http://www.uab.edu/cas/languages/.
Language Placement
To assure that students taking language courses are properly placed, all students must take a placement exam in the language before enrolling in classes. Students enrolling in Arabic, Chinese, Italian, Japanese, and Portuguese will work directly with designated world language faculty members to ensure proper placement. Placement exams in French, Spanish, and German are available online at the Department of World Languages and Literatures web site: https://www.uab.edu/cas/languages/student-resources/placement-tests. The level at which native/heritage language speakers may begin formal language study will be determined by the appropriate foreign language advisor after the student has taken the online placement exam. Exceptional native/heritage language students may apply for Credit by Examination (CBE). The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is available in French, German, and Spanish.
Major
The Department of World Languages and Literatures offers programs of study leading to the degree of Bachelor of Arts in World Languages with concentrations in Japanese, French, Spanish, and Applied Professional Spanish. Students who major or minor in world languages are encouraged to consult the department web page to identify the appropriate departmental advisor to assist in formulating an individual program of study.
The World Language major starts at the 200 level.
Concentration in Japanese
The Japanese concentration/track at UAB offers an articulated approach to the study of the Japanese language and the culture, civilization and literature of the Japanese-speaking world. Literacy skills and understanding (e.g., listening, reading, writing, speaking) are developed throughout the course of study, as is the nurturing of critical and analytical skills. Majors will leave the program with the ability to engage in critical and cross-cultural analysis. Students have the opportunity to do in-depth work in special topics seminars (e.g., Advanced language structure, Japanese culture and civilization, Contemporary Japan, Japanese Business, Film, Literature, Translation, and Japanese current issues.) Typically, Japanese concentration majors have more than one major or a complement minor to facilitate the applied aspect of language study (e.g., art anime, business, digital forensics, education, international studies, and pre-health and public health). Students graduating from UAB with a concentration in Japanese may go on to graduate or professional schools and/or employment in such fields as business, education, engineering, entertainment, industry, international relations, medicine, and public health.
The Japanese concentration provides opportunities for community outreach activities (e.g., internships, service learning) in Alabama, and has diverse study abroad opportunities from which to choose. We work very closely with students to personalize their studying experience. We also help them to find ways to enhance their language and culture skills through unique experiences abroad (e.g., Fulbright, teaching in Japan, and teaching exchanges).
The Department recommends students to enroll in more than one language to learn about varied linguistic structures and receive a broader cross-cultural perspective.
Concentration in French
The French concentration/track at UAB offers an articulated approach to the study of the French language and the culture, civilization and literature of the French-speaking world. Literacy skills and understanding (e.g., reading, writing, speaking) are developed throughout the course of study, as is the nurturing of critical and analytical skills. Majors will leave the program with the ability to engage in critical and cross-cultural analysis. Students have the opportunity to do in-depth work in special topics seminars (e.g., Advanced Grammar, French Civilization, Contemporary France, French Film, Environment in the French-Speaking World, Francophone literature and current issues.) Typically, French concentration majors have more than one major or a complement of minors to facilitate the applied aspect of language study (e.g., pre-health, international studies, public health, digital forensics, education, art, anthropology, communication studies, business, criminal justice). Students graduating from UAB with a concentration in French have gone on to graduate or professional school and/or employment in such fields as business, education, government, industry, international relations, law, public health, medicine, hotel and restaurant management, and publishing.
The French concentration has opportunities for community outreach activities (e.g., internships, service learning) in Alabama, and has diverse study abroad opportunities from which to choose. We work very closely with students to personalize their studying experience. We also help them to find ways to enhance their language and culture skills through unique experiences abroad (e.g., application for French government youth grants and internships, teaching exchanges).
The Department recommends students to enroll in more than one language to learn about varied linguistic structures and receive a broader cross-cultural perspective.
Concentration in Spanish
The Spanish concentration/track at UAB offers an articulated approach to the study of the Spanish language and the culture, civilization and literature of the Spanish-speaking world. Literacy skills and understanding (e.g., listening, reading, writing, speaking) are developed throughout the course of study, as well as the nurturing of critical and analytical skills. Our Spanish curriculum emphasizes the gradual development of the three principal Modes of Communication: Interpretive, Interpersonal, and Presentational. Majors will leave the program with the ability to engage in critical and cross-cultural analysis. Students have the opportunity to do in-depth work in special topics seminars like Afro-Hispanic writers, Hispanic and Latino topics, peninsular film, and applied linguistics, and sociolinguistics. Typically, Spanish concentration majors have more than one major or a complement of minors to facilitate the applied aspect of language study (e.g., criminal justice and digital forensics, neuroscience, pre-health, nursing, education, communication studies, business, and international studies). Students graduating from UAB with a concentration in Spanish have gone on to graduate or professional school and/or employment in such fields as business, education, government, industry, international relations, law, medicine, publishing, translation, and interpretation.
The Spanish concentration major has diverse study abroad opportunities from which to choose.
The department recommends students to enroll in more than one language to learn about varied linguistic structures and receive a broader cross-cultural perspective.
Concentration in Applied Professional Spanish (APSP)
The concentration/track in Applied Professional Spanish at UAB is a program intended to prepare students to develop the necessary communicative skills and cultural knowledge to serve the needs of the U.S. Spanish-speaking community in professional settings (such as health care, business and management, social work, criminology, education, translation, and interpretation) and better prepare students for a career with an international scope. This carefully-designed, progressive coursework is a combination of professionally-focused Spanish courses, advanced Spanish linguistics and phonology courses, contemporary Hispanic culture courses, and practical experience (community service learning and internship). Our Spanish curriculum emphasizes the gradual development of the three principal Modes of Communication: Interpretive, Interpersonal, and Presentational.
While maintaining a firm Humanities foundation within the tradition of the Liberal Arts, the overarching goal of the APS program is to enhance students' professional preparation for a global job market as well as for domestic positions that require proficiency in Spanish and understanding of U.S. Hispanic cultures. Courses are offered in various formats (seated, online, hybrid) and schedules (morning, afternoon, and evening) to accommodate both regular and returning students with a full-time job.
This program is especially adaptable as a double major.
Minor
Twelve semester hours at the 200 level or above are required for the minor in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Spanish, or Business Spanish. No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward the minor requirement. The Department of World Languages and Literatures strongly recommends that more than half of student course work for the minor be completed on the UAB campus. Students that transfer courses from non-UAB programs into the UAB minor programs will be examined for placement and proficiency level. At least 6 hrs. of the credits applied toward the minor must be taken at UAB. Exceptions to this rule can be granted with the permission of the Chair.
World Languages Media Services
The computer-based World Languages Media Services (WLMS) at UAB enables students, faculty and community users to access and utilize world languages and cultures in a digital environment in order to provide multi-dimensional learning and research opportunities. The WLMS plays an integral role in the activities and services of the UAB Department of World Languages and Literatures and also serves as a support center for the University. The WLMS enables the UAB Department of World Languages and Literatures to respond to the demand for additional language resources, the requirements for a wider range of tasks being performed in the languages, a greater number of language learners of different types and a broader array of instructional modes.
For more information about WLMS, online placement exams and internships, visit the Department of World Languages and Literatures website: http://www.uab.edu/cas/languages/.
Foreign Language Education
The Department of World Languages and Literatures regularly offers graduate language classes as content courses in French and Spanish for graduate degrees in foreign language education. Students interested in seeking one of the graduate degrees in foreign language education should contact the UAB Department of Curriculum and Instruction (School of Education).
- Bachelor of Arts with a Major in World Languages & Literatures (Concentration in French)
- Bachelor of Arts with a Major in World Languages and Literatures with a Concentration in Japanese
- Bachelor of Arts with a Major in World Languages and Literatures (Concentration in Spanish)
- Major in World Languages and Literatures with a Concentration in Applied Professional Spanish
Bachelor of Arts with a Major in World Languages & Literatures (Concentration in French)
*At least 18 credits must be taken at UAB
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
WLL 120 | Foreign Cultures | 3 |
WLL 121 | Songs of Social Change through World Cultures 1 | 3 |
WLL 485 | World Language Capstone Seminar | 3 |
FR 201 | Intermediate French I 2 | 3 |
Select at least three (3) 200 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
Intermediate French II | ||
French and Business Culture | ||
Exploring French-speaking Culture | ||
Intermediate Survey of French Literature | ||
Intermediate French Composition | ||
Practical Conversation | ||
French for Health | ||
Food for Thought: French Culture through Cuisine | ||
Study Abroad | ||
Advanced French Courses | ||
Select at least three (3) 300 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
French-Speaking Cinema | ||
Parlons affaires! Global Engagement in the French-Speaking World | ||
Advanced Grammar and Composition I | ||
Advanced Grammar and Composition II | ||
Exploring French-Speaking Culture | ||
Greatest Hits of French Literature | ||
Bande-dessinée: Reading French Language Comics | ||
Creative Writing in French | ||
Practical Conversation | ||
Approaches to Translation | ||
Soccer, History, and Politics in the French-Speaking World | ||
La Chanson Française: French Culture through Songs | ||
Study Abroad | ||
Special Readings in French | ||
Select at least three (3) 400 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
Histoires de France: French History Through Stories | ||
Aux Armes! Revolutions in the French-speaking World | ||
Fin-de-Siecle France (1895-1940) | ||
French Literature since 1940 | ||
Race, Gender, and Transnationalism in Francophone Literature and Thought | ||
Special Topics in French | ||
French Civilization:before 1789 Pre-Revolutionary | ||
French Civilization after 1789 Post-Revolutionary | ||
Literature and the Environment in the French-Speaking World | ||
Study Abroad: French | ||
Directed Studies | ||
Total Hours | 39 |
Grade Requirement
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward the major.
Beginning Language Requirement
To enroll in any 200-level Japanese (JA) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level Japanese (JA) courses or complete the equivalent placement test.
Bachelor of Arts with a Major in World Languages and Literatures with a Concentration in Japanese
At least 18 credit hours must be taken at UAB.
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Blazer Core Curriculum | 41 | |
General Electives | 40 | |
WLL 120 | World Cultures 1 | 3 |
WLL 121 | Songs of Social Change through World Cultures 2 | 3 |
WLL 485 | World Language Capstone Seminar | 3 |
JPA 201 | Intermediate Japanese I 3 | 3 |
Intermediate Japanese Courses | ||
Select three 200-level courses from below: | 9 | |
Intermediate Japanese II | ||
Intermediate Japanese Language & Culture I | ||
Intermediate Japanese Language & Culture II | ||
Japanese Anime and Manga | ||
Business Japanese | ||
Discourse and Culture in Japanese | ||
Contemporary Issues in Japanese Society | ||
Japanese for Study Abroad | ||
Directed Readings in Japanese | ||
Advanced Japanese Courses | ||
Select three 300-level courses from below: | 9 | |
Advanced Japanese I | ||
Advanced Japanese II | ||
Japanese Pragmatics I | ||
Japanese Culture and Civilization | ||
Japanese Children Stories | ||
Advanced Business Japanese | ||
Japanese Translation I | ||
Japanese Cinema I | ||
Japanese Language and Society I | ||
Advanced Reading and Writing I | ||
Study Abroad | ||
Directed Readings: Japanese | ||
Select three 400-level courses from below: | 9 | |
Advanced Japanese III | ||
Advanced Japanese IV | ||
Japanese Pragmatics II | ||
Japanese Popular Culture | ||
Japanese Literature | ||
Advanced Japanese for the Professions | ||
Japanese Translation II | ||
Japanese Cinema II | ||
Japanese Language and Society II | ||
Advanced Reading and Writing II | ||
Study Abroad: Japan | ||
Directed Readings: Japanese | ||
Total Hours | 120 |
Grade Requirement
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward the major.
Beginning Language Requirement
To enroll in any 200-level French (FR) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level French (FR) courses or complete the equivalent placement test.
Bachelor of Arts with a Major in World Languages and Literatures (Concentration in Spanish)
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
WLL 120 | Foreign Cultures | 3 |
WLL 121 | Songs of Social Change through World Cultures 1 | 3 |
WLL 485 | World Language Capstone Seminar | 3 |
SPA 201 | Intermediate Spanish I 2 | 3 |
Select at least three (3) 200 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
Intermediate Spanish II | ||
Intermediate Spanish Review | ||
Intermediate Spanish for the Professions | ||
Conversation and Culture | ||
Introduction to Translation for the Professions | ||
Intermediate Spanish Grammar in Context | ||
Study Abroad | ||
Special Readings in Spanish | ||
Advanced Spanish Courses | ||
Select at least three (3) 300 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
Advanced Grammar in Context | ||
Phonetics and Phonology | ||
Cultures of the Spanish-Speaking World | ||
Greatest Hits of Hispanic Literature I | ||
Greatest Hits of Hispanic Literature II | ||
Hispanic Children Stories | ||
Study Abroad | ||
Special Readings in Spanish | ||
Select at least three (3) 400 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
Voices of Imperial Spain | ||
Voices of Colonial Latin America | ||
Contemporary Spanish Literature and Film | ||
Medicine and Literature in the Spanish-Speaking World | ||
US Latino Writers | ||
Indigenous and Indigenist Latin America | ||
Spanish-Speaking Nobel Laureates | ||
Cervantes and the Quixote | ||
Voices of Contemporary Latin America 1920-Present | ||
Afro-Latin American Literature and Culture | ||
Special Topics in Spanish | ||
Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics | ||
Spanish Sociolinguistics | ||
History of Spanish Language | ||
Spanish Second Language Acquisition | ||
Pop Culture in Translation | ||
Globalization in the Hispanic World | ||
Contemporary Spain | ||
Study Abroad: Spanish | ||
Directed Studies | ||
Total Hours | 39 |
Grade Requirement
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward the major.
Beginning Language Requirement
To enroll in any 200-level Spanish (SPA) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level Spanish (SPA) courses or complete the equivalent placement test.
Major in World Languages and Literatures with a Concentration in Applied Professional Spanish
Beginning Language Requirement
To enroll in any 200-level Spanish (SPA) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level Spanish (SPA) courses or complete the equivalent placement test.
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Blazer Core Curriculum | 41 | |
General Electives | 40 | |
WLL 120 | World Cultures | 3 |
WLL 121 | Songs of Social Change through World Cultures 1 | 3 |
WLL 485 | World Language Capstone Seminar | 3 |
SPA 201 | Intermediate Spanish I 2 | 3 |
SPA 485 | Spanish for Leadership at the Workplace 3 | 3 |
Select at least three 200 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
Intermediate Spanish for the Professions | ||
Introduction to Translation for the Professions | ||
Intermediate Spanish Grammar in Context | ||
Spanish for Health Professionals | ||
Study Abroad 4 | ||
Advanced Spanish Courses | ||
Select at least three 300 level courses from this group: | 9 | |
Advanced Grammar in Context | ||
Phonetics and Phonology | ||
Business Spanish | ||
Applied Spanish Translation and Interpretation | ||
Hispanic Cultures Through Culinary Art | ||
Advanced Spanish for Health Professionals | ||
Study Abroad 4 | ||
Select at least two 400 level courses from this group: | 6 | |
Medicine and Literature in the Spanish-Speaking World | ||
Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics | ||
Spanish Sociolinguistics | ||
Spanish Second Language Acquisition | ||
Pop Culture in Translation | ||
Globalization in the Hispanic World | ||
Contemporary Spain | ||
Contemporary Latin America | ||
Applied Spanish and Medical Interpreting | ||
Total Hours | 120 |
- 1
A choice of a second language may substitute: ARA 101, CHI 101, WLL 101, FR 101, GN 101, ITL 101, JPA 101, POR 101
- 2
May not be required, based on language placement exam results
- 3
May be replaced with SPA 490 (Internship Abroad) with departmental approval
- 4
Must be related to Spanish for the professions. Only similar intermediate-level courses related to Spanish for the professions at approved foreign institutions are transferable for this concentration.
Grade Requirement
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward the major.
Proposed Program of Study for a Major in World Languages with a Concentration in French
Freshman | |||
---|---|---|---|
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
WLL 120 | 3 | WLL 121 | 3 |
FR 101 | 3 | FR 102 | 3 |
6 | 6 | ||
Sophomore | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
French (200-level or above) | 6 | French (200-level or above) | 6 |
6 | 6 | ||
Junior | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
French (300-level or above) | 6 | French (300-level or above) | 6 |
French 400 level | 3 | ||
6 | 9 | ||
Senior | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
One or Two French (400 level) | 3-6 | WLL 485 | 3 |
One or Two French (400 level) | 3-6 | ||
3-6 | 6-9 | ||
Total credit hours: 48-54 |
- ***
Remaining hours will come from core (41) and electives (31) to reach 120 hours required for degree.
Proposed Program of Study for a Major in World Languages with a Concentration in Spanish
Freshman | |||
---|---|---|---|
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
WLL 120 | 3 | WLL 121 | 3 |
SPA 101 | 3 | SPA 102 | 3 |
6 | 6 | ||
Sophomore | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
SPA 201 | 3 | Spanish (200 level or above) | 6 |
Spanish (200 level or above) | 3 | ||
6 | 6 | ||
Junior | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
Spanish Courses (300 level or above) | 6 | Spanish (300 level or above) | 3 |
Spanish (400 level or above) | 3 | ||
6 | 6 | ||
Senior | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
Spanish Courses (400 level) | 6 | WLL 485 | 3 |
Spanish Course (400 level) | 3 | ||
6 | 6 | ||
Total credit hours: 48 |
- ***
Remaining hours will come from core (41) and electives (31) to reach 120 hours required for degree.
Proposed Program of Study for a Major in World Languages with a Concentration in Applied Professional Spanish
Freshman | |||
---|---|---|---|
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
WLL 120 | 3 | WLL 121 | 3 |
SPA 101 | 3 | SPA 102 | 3 |
6 | 6 | ||
Sophomore | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
SPA 201 | 3 | Spanish 200-Level1 | 3 |
Spanish 200-Level1 | 3 | ||
6 | 3 | ||
Junior | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
Spanish 300-Level2 | 6 | Spanish 300-Level2 | 3 |
Spanish 400-Level3 | 3 | ||
6 | 6 | ||
Senior | |||
First Term | Hours | Second Term | Hours |
Spanish 400-Level3 | 6 | WLL 485 | 3 |
SPA 485 or 490 | 1-9 | ||
6 | 4-12 | ||
Total credit hours: 43-51 |
- Minor in French
- Minor in Spanish
- Minor in Spanish for Business
- Minor in Chinese
- Minor in German
- Minor in Japanese
Minor in French
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Beginning Language Requirement | 8 | |
To enroll in any 200-level French (FR) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level French (FR) courses or complete the equivalent placement test. | ||
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward a minor. | ||
French Courses | 12 | |
Select 12 credit hours from 200-level, 300-level, or 400-level French (FR) | ||
Intermediate French I | ||
Intermediate French II | ||
French and Business Culture | ||
Exploring French-speaking Culture | ||
Intermediate Survey of French Literature | ||
Intermediate French Composition | ||
Practical Conversation | ||
French for Health | ||
Food for Thought: French Culture through Cuisine | ||
Study Abroad | ||
At least 6 hrs. of the credits applied toward the minor must be taken at UAB. Exceptions to this rule can be granted with the permission of the Chair. | ||
Total Hours | 20 |
Minor in Spanish
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Beginning Language Requirement | 8 | |
To enroll in any 200-level Spanish (SPA) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level Spanish (SPA) courses or complete the equivalent placement test. | ||
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward a minor. | ||
Spanish Courses | 12 | |
Select 12 credit hours from 200-level, 300-level, or 400-level Spanish (SPA) | ||
Intermediate Spanish I | ||
Intermediate Spanish II | ||
Intermediate Spanish Review | ||
Intermediate Spanish for the Professions | ||
Conversation and Culture | ||
Introduction to Translation for the Professions | ||
Intermediate Spanish Grammar in Context | ||
Spanish for Health Professionals | ||
Study Abroad | ||
Special Readings in Spanish | ||
At least 6 hrs. of the credits applied toward the minor must be taken at UAB. Exceptions to this rule can be granted with the permission of the Chair. | ||
Total Hours | 20 |
Minor in Spanish for Business
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Required Courses | ||
SPA 206 | Intermediate Spanish for the Professions | 3 |
SPA 313 | Business Spanish | 3 |
Spanish Electives | ||
Select two of the following: | 6 | |
Intermediate Spanish II | ||
Intermediate Spanish Review | ||
Conversation and Culture | ||
Introduction to Translation for the Professions | ||
Intermediate Spanish Grammar in Context | ||
Spanish for Health Professionals | ||
Study Abroad | ||
Special Readings in Spanish | ||
At least 6 hrs. of the credits applied toward the minor must be taken at UAB. Exceptions to this rule can be granted with the permisison of the Chair. | ||
Total Hours | 12 |
* | A grade of C or better is required for courses applying to this minor. |
Minor in Chinese
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Beginning Language Requirement | 8 | |
To enroll in any 200-level Chinese (CHI) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level Chinese (CHI) courses or complete the equivalent placement test. | ||
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward a minor. | ||
Chinese Courses | 12 | |
Select 12 credit hours from 200-level Chinese (CHI) or higher: | ||
Intermediate Chinese I | ||
Intermediate Chinese II | ||
Intermediate Chinese Language & Culture I | ||
Intermediate Chinese Language and Culture II | ||
Chinese for the Professions | ||
Chinese Through Culinary Art | ||
Chinese for Health Professionals | ||
Study Abroad: Chinese | ||
Directed Readings in Chinese | ||
At least 6 hrs. of the credits applied toward the minor must be taken at UAB. Exceptions to this rule can be granted with the permission of the Chair. | ||
Total Hours | 20 |
Minor in German
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Beginning Language Requirement | 8 | |
To enroll in any 200-level German (GN) course, students must either complete 8 hours of 100-level German (GN) courses or complete the equivalent placement test. | ||
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward a minor. | ||
German Courses | 12 | |
Select 12 credit hours from 200-level German (GN) or higher: | ||
Intermediate German I | ||
Intermediate German II | ||
German Culture and Civilization | ||
Readings in German Literature | ||
German for the Professions | ||
German for Technology and Media | ||
German Culture and Civilization II | ||
Study Abroad | ||
At least 6 hrs. of the credits applied toward the minor must be taken at UAB. Exceptions to this rule can be granted with the permission of the Chair. | ||
Total Hours | 20 |
Minor in Japanese
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
Beginning Language Requirement | 8 | |
To enroll in any 200-level Japanese (JPA) course, students must either complete 6 hours of 100-level Japanese (JPA) courses or complete the equivalent placement test. | ||
No course in which a grade below C has been earned may be counted toward a minor. | ||
Japanese Courses | 12 | |
Select 12 credit hours from 200-level Japanese (JPA) or higher: | ||
Intermediate Japanese I | ||
Intermediate Japanese II | ||
Intermediate Japanese Language & Culture I | ||
Intermediate Japanese Language & Culture II | ||
Japanese Anime and Manga | ||
Business Japanese | ||
Discourse and Culture in Japanese | ||
Contemporary Issues in Japanese Society | ||
Japanese for Study Abroad | ||
Directed Readings in Japanese | ||
Study Abroad | ||
At least 6 hrs. of the credits applied toward the minor must be taken at UAB. Exceptions to this rule can be granted with the permission of the Chair. | ||
Total Hours | 20 |
Spanish for Specific Purposes
The Department of World Languages and Literatures offers a Spanish for Specific Purposes (SSP) Certificate. The certificate is built upon the existing Spanish program and course offerings with modifications and additions. The courses are designed for traditional as well as non-traditional candidates. The objective of this certificate is not only to fulfill UAB degree candidates’ academic and future needs, but also to reach out to local professionals. The courses are content-, vocabulary-, and culture-based. Students learn the vocabulary, language and cultural background that they will use in their professional field through extensive practice in class and beyond the classroom as well. Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will receive an official UAB Certificate of Completion, which will also be recorded on their transcript.
Candidates who wish to obtain a UAB Spanish for Specific Purposes Certificate must fulfill the following requirements:
- Have the Spanish prerequisites specific to each SSP class.
- Enter with and maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA in Spanish courses.
- Submit an application online following the link provided below and receive formal acceptance to the SSP program.
- Obtain a B grade or above in all SSP courses.
- Complete a minimum of 18 credit hours of SSP classes (6 courses) in the UAB Department of World Languages and Literatures, of which a minimum of 12 credits (4 courses) must be at the 300 level (SPA 304, WLL 333, and two other 300 level SPA courses).
- Complete a successful SSP Service Learning course (WLL 333, 3 credit hours) as part of the 18 credit hour requirement.
- Upon completion of the program, take the Oral Profiency Interview by computer (OPIc) in Spanish and earn the performance rank of Intermediate-Mid or above.
- Have a minimum of 12 credit hours of successful college level work (grade C or above in all courses), with the following distribution (minimum): at least 6 credit hours in Area 1 (English Composition), at least 3 credit hours in Area 2 (Arts and Humanities), at least 3 credit hours in Area 4 (Social Sciences) (non-degree-seeking candidates only).
Requirements | Hours | |
---|---|---|
SPA 304 | Phonetics and Phonology 1 | 3 |
WLL 333 | World Language Service Learning | 1-6 |
Directed Electives 1 | 12 | |
Select twelve credits from the following: | ||
Intermediate Spanish for the Professions | ||
Introduction to Translation for the Professions | ||
Spanish for Health Professionals | ||
Business Spanish | ||
Applied Spanish Translation and Interpretation | ||
Advanced Spanish for Health Professionals | ||
Study Abroad 5 | ||
Study Abroad: Spanish 5 | ||
Core Courses 2 | ||
EH 101 | English Composition I | 3 |
EH 102 | English Composition II | 3 |
Select One Fine Art & Humanities Course 3 | 3 | |
Select One Social Science 4 |
- 1
A grade of B or better is required.
- 2
A grade of C or better is required.
- 3
Fine Arts & Humanities Course Selection: AAS 200, ARA 101, ARA 102, ARH 101, ARH 203, ARH 204, ARH 206, CHI 101, CHI 102, CMST 101, EH 217, EH 218, EH 221, EH 222, EH 223, EH 224, WLL 120, WLL 220, FR 101, FR 102, FR 108, FR 201, FR 202, GN 101, GN 102, GN 201, GN 202, GN 204, ITL 101, ITL 102, MU 120, PHL 100, PHL 115, PHL 116, PHL 120, PHL 125, PHL 203, SPA 101, SPA 102, SPA 108, SPA 201, SPA 202, THR 100, THR 105, THR 200.
- 4
Social Science Requirements: ANTH 101, ANTH 106, ANTH 120, CMST 105, EC 210, EC 211, GEO 121, HY 101, HY 102, HY 104, HY 105, HY 120, HY 121, ITS 101, PSC 101, PSC 102, PSC 103, PSC 221, PY 101, PY 212, SOC 100, SOC 245, WS 100.
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Course requires pre-approval of Program Director or Department Chair.
For detailed information about the SSPC courses, registration process and procedures, online registration application and other updates, please visit our web site at http://www.uab.edu/cas/languages/
Honors in World Languages and Literatures
Purpose
The World Languages and Literatures Honors Program is designed for qualified, self-motivated foreign languages majors. Through special course distribution and credit hours requirements, as well as a directed honors thesis, students are prepared for in-depth foreign language research and related graduate or professional opportunities.
Eligibility
Acceptance into the World Languages and Literatures Honors Program requires the student to:
- Be a World Languages major
- Have at least sophomore standing
- Have at least 6 hours at the 300-level in UAB world languages courses
- Have at least a 3.25 GPA in UAB world languages courses
- Have at least an overall 3.0 GPA
- Have submitted a Formal Application for the World Languages and Literatures Honors Program to the Department Chair or have been recommended to the program by a member of the department.
Requirements
- Completion of required courses for the World Languages and Literatures major
- Submission of a formal project proposal to Department of World Languages and Literatures (DWLL), faculty Mentor and DWLL Chair
- Agreement and acceptance by a DWLL faculty Mentor and DWLL Chair of a research project
- Constitution of a former Honors Committee with membership that consists of the DWLL faculty Mentor and two faculty Consultants
- Public Defense of the research project
- Acceptance of the completed project by the student's Honors Committee
- Submission of an archival copy of the completed project signed by the Honors Committee to the office of the DWLL
Contact
For more information and/or admission to the World Languages and Literatures Honors Program, please contact:
Chair of the Department
Department of World Languages and Literatures
ARA - Arabic Courses
ARA 101. Introductory Arabic I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
ARA 101L. Introductory Arabic I Lab. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Arabic I. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
ARA 102. Introductory Arabic II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where MSA Arabic is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
ARA 102L. Introductory Arabic II Lab. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Arabic II.
ARA 190. Study Abroad: Arabic. 1-8 Hour.
Approved novice level study abroad program in an Arabic-speaking country. Course of study will vary according to array of approved offerings and student interest. Permission of department chair required.
ARA 201. Intermediate Arabic I. 3 Hours.
This is a continuation of ARA 102. Emphasis is placed on reading authentic Arabic materials and communicative competence. There will be a focus on the meaining of sentences rather than words, which would enable the students to read and speak with more fluency and better comprehension. Students will not only engage in studying authentic Arabic materials (written, audio, and/or video, official forms, etc.), but are also required to evaluate them for others. They will also be guided to function in specific situations where they have to use only the target language to commmunicate their ideas and then write about them. Additionally, they will be exposed to some particular aspects of the cultures, cutstoms, literary traditions and other artistic expressions of the Arabic-speaking world.
ARA 202. Intermediate Arabic II. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on enhancing students' linguistic and cultural competence in the Arabic speaking-world. Class activities will include role-playing, individual student presentations and extramural group projects. While the class is focused on content instruction, attention will also be paid to Arabic Language through selected activities that enhance the students' reading, writing, and conversational skills. Intermediate-high proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Arabic is the targeted outcome.
Prerequisites: ARA 201 [Min Grade: C]
ARA 290. Arabic for Study Abroad. 1-12 Hour.
This study-abroad Arabic course aims at improving students' oral fluency. It will help students develop intermediary conversational skills as they study in total immersion. The emphasis will be on efficient target language production at the intermediate level, as well as an oral and comprehension skills, communicative strategies, and the acquisition of vocabulary relating to a variety of domains. The course content will also include discussion and analysis of current cultural topics. Arabic 290 will be conducted entirely in Arabic.
ARA 299. Directed Readings in Arabic. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for intermediate Arabic students. Course design is determined by the instructor and student, and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowedge of Arabic language and culture. Intermediate proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Arabic is the targeted outcome.
ARA 390. Study Abroad: Arabic. 1-6 Hour.
Approved advanced level study abroad program in an Arabic-speaking country. Course of study will vary according to array of approved offerings. Permission of the department chair required.
ARA 399. Directed Readings: Arabic. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for advanced students of Arabic language and culture. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of Arabic language and culture. Intermediate-high or Advanced-low proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Arabic is the targeted outcome. 6 hours in Intermediate Arabic or equivalent and permission of the department chair required.
CHI-Chinese Courses
CHI 101. Introductory Chinese I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Chinese is spoken. The online version of this course is Quality Matters (QM) certified. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global and Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
CHI 101L. Introductory Chinese I Lab. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Chinese I. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global and Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
CHI 102. Introductory Chinese II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Chinese is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
CHI 102L. Introductory Chinese II Lab. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Chinese II.
CHI 190. Study Abroad: Chinese. 1-8 Hour.
Approved novice level study abroad program in a Chinese-speaking country. Course of study will vary according to array of approved offerings student interest. Permission of department chair required.
CHI 201. Intermediate Chinese I. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to help students make the transition to natural communication and develop the language-learning process by focusing on the expansion of necessary elements for development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by using cultural and literary readings as well as grammatical exercises. It also provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Chinese is spoken. Conducted in Chinese. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with flags in Wellness/Wellbeing and Global & Multicultural Perspectives.
CHI 202. Intermediate Chinese II. 3 Hours.
Continuation of Chinese 201. Continued development of grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing and cultural proficiency. Conducted in Chinese.
CHI 203. Intermediate Chinese Language & Culture I. 3 Hours.
This course aims to improve student linguistic and cultural fluency necessary for functioning in the Chinese-speaking world. The course examines several cultural topics as well as language patterns in everyday speech. While emphasis will be placed on oral skills, attention will also be given to the written Chinese that one encounters in daily life. Topics may include: Life of the Chinese People, Chinese Folk Customs, Chinese Arts and Crafts, Chinese Architecture, Traditional Chinese Ideology, Traveling around China, and etc.
CHI 204. Intermediate Chinese Language and Culture II. 3 Hours.
This course uses film as a medium to explore various aspects of Chinese culture and helps students understand the Chinese language. A wide range of movie genres are covered, including drama, action and thriller movies, etc. Students develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking. In addition, students will be introduced to the field of film studies and learn how to critically analyze and critique a movie.
Prerequisites: CHI 201 [Min Grade: C]
CHI 206. Chinese for the Professions. 3 Hours.
Intensive conversation and acquisition of vocabulary for the professionals while focusing on culture(s) of the Chinese-speaking world. This course aims to further develop communicative competence within the cultural context of the Chinese-speaking world; to foster critical thinking skills, such as, problem-identification and solving, decision-making, anticipation and planning, client understanding, and negotiation techniques; to expand students' functional vocabulary, in particular, the language of the Chinese-speaking professional world; to promote a better understanding of Chinese business culture; and to develop professional basic writing skills.
CHI 220. Chinese Through Culinary Art. 3 Hours.
This intermediate course focuses on Chinese language and cooking, combining two outstanding elements for a perfect experience of the Chinese culture. It continues developing the students’ skills in Chinese by introducing them to additional advanced grammar, vocabulary, and idiomatic expressions that are specific to cooking. Students will be able to improve Chinese writing and oral skills as well as grammar; learn a wide range of vocabulary and specific expressions; and discover Chinese food culture and its characteristics. Prerequisite: CHI 201 or equivalent level. Conducted in Chinese.
CHI 280. Chinese for Health Professionals. 3 Hours.
This intermediate course aims at building the vocabulary of students with common words and useful expressions in Chinese in order to facilitate basic communication between medical professionals and their patients. Students will be able to demonstrate proper pronunciation and usage of basic Chinese medical expressions; understand cultural beliefs and practices unique to the Chinese-speaking community; utilize support and resources to encourage future self-directed learning. Prerequisite: CHI 201 or equivalent level. Conducted in Chinese.
CHI 290. Study Abroad: Chinese. 1-12 Hour.
This study-abroad Chinese course helps students develop intermediary conversational skills as they study in total immersion. The emphasis will be on efficient target language production at the intermediate level, as well as an oral and comprehension skills, communicative strategies, and the acquisition of vocabulary relating to a variety of domains. The course content also includes discussion and analysis of current cultural topics. Conducted in Chinese. Permission of the Department Chair and Director of Education Abroad required.
CHI 299. Directed Readings in Chinese. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for intermediate Chinese students. Course design is determined by the instructor and student, and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of Chinese language and culture. Intermediate proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Chinese is the targeted outcome.
CHI 390. Study Abroad: Chinese. 1-6 Hour.
Advanced program in a Chinese-speaking country. Course of study will vary according to array of approved offering and student interest. Permission of the Department Chair and Director of Education Abroad required.
CHI 399. Directed Readings: Chinese. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for advanced students of Chinese language and culture. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of the Chinese language and culture. Intermediate-high or Advanced-low proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Chinese is the targeted outcome. Permission of the Department Chair required.
CHI 490. Study Abroad: Chinese. 1-9 Hour.
Advanced program in a Chinese-speaking country. Course of study will vary according to array of approved offering and student interest. Conducted in Chinese. Permission of the Department Chair and Director of Education Abroad required.
FR-French Courses
FR 101. Introductory French I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where French is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
FR 101L. Introductory French I Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory French I. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
FR 102. Introductory French II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where French is spoken. This course meets the Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
FR 102L. Introductory French II Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory French II.
FR 105. Accelerated Gamified Introductory French. 3 Hours.
Intensive study of the essentials of language needed for proficient communication where students roleplay as voyagers on a trip around the French-speaking world. This is a high-paced course, which includes practices in listening comprehension, speaking, writing, and reading, as it combines FR 101 (Introductory French I) and FR 102 (Introductory French II). This voyage is designed for those who have studied French for one to three years prior to their arrival at UAB but want a review starting from the beginning. This course will meet Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perspectives.
FR 105L. Accelerated Gamified Introductory French Workshop. 1 Hour.
As you embark on the voyage of French 105, you will document your travels in the Voyage Workshop (FR 105L). This is a 1-credit hour workhop you are taking simultaneously with FR 105 (for a total of 4 credit hours).
FR 108. Introductory Intensive French. 4 Hours.
Intensive study of the essentials of language needed for proficient communication. This is a high-paced course, which includes basic exercises in listening comprehension, speaking, writing and reading, as it combines FR 101 and 102. Includes a one-hour lab requirement. This course meets the Core Curriculum requirements for Area II: Humanities.
FR 190. Study Abroad. 1-8 Hour.
First-year level of approved study-abroad program in a French-speaking country.
FR 201. Intermediate French I. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to help students make the transition to natural communication and develop the language-learning process by focusing on the expansion of necessary elements for development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by using cultural and literary readings as well as grammatical exercises. It also provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where French is spoken. This course meets the Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Sustainability and Global & Multicultural Perspectives.
FR 202. Intermediate French II. 3 Hours.
Continuation of french 201. Continued review of grammar and composition through written exercises of reading, writing, listening comprehension, and speaking skills. Conducted in French. This course meets the Core Curriculum requirements for Area II: Humanities.
FR 205. Society through French-Speaking Cinema. 3 Hours.
This course presents socio-historical, cultural issues and perspectives on French and francophone society and culture through film, with an emphasis on contemporary films and the exploration of l'Entre-deux Guerres, la Nouvelle Vague, as well as French-speaking movies from Africa and Canada. Conducted in French.
FR 206. French and Business Culture. 3 Hours.
The overarching goal of this intermediate course is to develop tools to function in a professional francophone setting. Students will closely examine the international job market while developing a personal professional dossier. Upon completion of this course, students may take the exam for the DFP (Diplôme de Français Professionnel), an internationally recognized validation of students’ proficiency in Professional French.
FR 210. Exploring French-speaking Culture. 3 Hours.
Overview of contemporary French cultural identity, in the context of geographical, social and educational dynamics. Conducted in French. May not concurrently enroll in FR 310.
FR 211. Intermediate Survey of French Literature. 3 Hours.
Intermediate-level overview of French literature and civilization from the seventeenth century to the present. Conducted in French. May not concurrently enroll in FR 311.
FR 220. Intermediate French Composition. 3 Hours.
Fundamental composition course focusing on syntactical patterns of French, vocabulary building, correct usage, stylistic control, writing skills, and free composition. Conducted in French. May not concurrently enroll in FR 320. Writing is a significant component of this course.
FR 221. Creative Writing in French. 3 Hours.
This course allows students to explore and develop their creative voice while developing French language skills at the low advanced level. The class aims at helping students to strengthen their vocabulary and writing style as well as improve nuances in the use of the French language through experiments with different genres and writing techniques, from poetry to short stories, found poem creations, the rewriting of fairy tales, travel writing, memoir vignettes. This is a fundamental writing course which focuses on the syntactical patterns of French, vocabulary building, correct usage, stylistic control, writing skills through the exploration of creative writing. Conducted in French.
FR 230. Practical Conversation. 3 Hours.
Acquisition of conversational and listening skills, vocabulary, and oral automatisms. Conducted in French. May not concurrently enroll in FR 330.
FR 240. French for Health. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on the French healthcare system, presenting practical vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, medical terminology, and cultural attitudes of French-speaking patients towards health issues. Current issues related to health, illnesses, and healthcare in France and the French-speaking world will be discussed. This course builds and develops speaking, listening, and reading skills by emphasizing intensive conversation, technical reading, and vocabulary acquisition. Conducted in French.
FR 250. Food for Thought: French Culture through Cuisine. 3 Hours.
French gastronomy is renowned worldwide. This course aims to explore how French cuisine has had such a global culinary impact while analyzing the variety and specificities of French cuisine. Moving beyond France, it also tackles how food embodies different cultures, histories, nations, regions in the French-speaking world. By studying and cooking national or local dishes, students will explore the French food culture in film, literature, and historical texts to explore questions of national and individual identity, immigration, tradition, modernity, global and local markets. Conducted in French.
FR 290. Study Abroad. 1-12 Hour.
Approved program in a French-speaking country. Prerequiste: Permission of Department Chair.
FR 305. French-Speaking Cinema. 3 Hours.
Overview of French-speaking cinema from the end of the nineteenth century to the present. Emphasis on the cinema of l' Entre-deux Guerres, la Nouvelle Vague, and French-speaking movies from Africa. Conducted in French.
FR 306. Parlons affaires! Global Engagement in the French-Speaking World. 3 Hours.
In this task-based course, we will use departments of a company (human resources, production, sales, finance, and administration) to examine business practices. Students will gain real-world practical French experience through company web sites, the business press, case studies, and exchanges with francophone professionals. Upon completion of this course, students may take the exam for the DFP (Diplôme de Français Professionnel), an internationally recognized validation of students’ proficiency in Professional French.
FR 307. Advanced Grammar and Composition I. 3 Hours.
Thorough review of principles of French grammar, vocabulary, and idioms. Also comparative linguistics and phonetics. Conducted in French.
FR 308. Advanced Grammar and Composition II. 3 Hours.
Continuation of FR 307. Continued review of principles of French grammar, Vocabulary, and isioms. Also comparative linguistics and phonetics. Conducted in French.
FR 310. Exploring French-Speaking Culture. 3 Hours.
Overview of contemporary French-speaking cultural identity, in the context of geographical, social and educational dynamics. This course also focuses on building advanced-level French language skills and a stronger vocabulary. Conducted in French. May not take concurrently with FR 210.
FR 311. Greatest Hits of French Literature. 3 Hours.
This course is an overview of French civilization, culture, literature, and the arts from early to contemporary times. Highlights of best selling works of various authors, with emphasis on fundamental literary concepts and distinctive stylistic features of French discourse, will be reviewed. Conducted in French. May not be taken concurrently with FR 211.
FR 315. Bande-dessinée: Reading French Language Comics. 3 Hours.
This course offers an introduction to the vast universe of bandes dessinées in the French-speaking world, considering comics from France, Belgium, Africa, the Middle East, Québec, and the Caribbean. An extremely popular genre in the French-speaking world, bandes dessinées engages with contemporary culture with themes such as national identity, gender, immigration, colonization, and religion. The course also provides students with the appropriated vocabulary as well as the literary styles related to bandes dessinées. Conducted in French.
FR 320. Creative Writing in French. 3 Hours.
Students will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge of the French language around creative writing. Based on workshop activities, students will discuss short readings ranging from autobiographical to experimental in a variety of literary genres (poetry, prose, short story, and essay) and then write their own. Students will also critique and help other classmates in order to perfect their crafts. This is a fundamental writing course which focuses on the syntactical patterns of French, vocabulary building, correct usage, stylistic control, writing skills. Conducted in French.
FR 330. Practical Conversation. 3 Hours.
Acquisition of conversational and listening skills, vocabulary, and oral automatisms. Conducted in French. Preq: 6 hours of French at the minor level (or equivalent) or permission of instructor. May not concurrently enroll in FR 230.
FR 340. Approaches to Translation. 3 Hours.
This course develops the practice of the art of translation. The class will be devoted to translating a variety of genre of writing in French and in English (poetry, prose, journalism or subtitling) and that tackle various contemporary themes. Through translating – and reflecting on translation - students will acquire vocabulary, grammatical structures and writing styles. Conducted in French.
FR 350. Soccer, History, and Politics in the French-Speaking World. 3 Hours.
This course explores the importance of soccer in the French-speaking world and how the sport has become part of different cultures over the years. By looking at specific players’ stories or larger soccer events, the course specifically reflects on the politics behind the beautiful game. It will particularly examine the sport’s relationship with issues such as colonialism, decolonization, migration, race, gender, and national identity. Conducted in French.
FR 351. Food for Thought: French Culture through Cuisine. 3 Hours.
French gastronomy is renowned worldwide. This advanced level course aims to explore how French cuisine has had such a global culinary impact while analyzing the variety and specificities of French cuisine. Moving beyond France, it also tackles how food embodies different cultures, histories, nations, regions in the French-speaking world. By studying and cooking national or local dishes, students will explore the French food culture in film, literature, and historical texts to explore questions of national and individual identity, immigration, tradition, modernity, global and local markets. Conducted in French.
FR 360. La Chanson Française: French Culture through Songs. 3 Hours.
This course offers students a unique insight into French culture through la chanson française, or “French Song.” This genre of music often termed “la musique populaire” is the music of the French people in which the language and lyrics are more important than the melody itself. Through the study of songs, students trace the Medieval Troubadour tradition of storytelling to the contemporary poetry of songs. Through cross-cultural analysis, students will connect the songs of these performers to French identity. Course themes include national identity, gender, immigration, and religion. Conducted in French.
FR 390. Study Abroad. 1-9 Hour.
Approved program in a French-speaking country.
FR 399. Special Readings in French. 1-3 Hour.
Individualized course of directed readings and activities for students of French. Permission of Department Chair required.
FR 401. Histoires de France: French History Through Stories. 3 Hours.
Literature, culture, and civilization of seventeenth- and eighteenth-century France, reflecting the historical and literary ambience in which Ancient Regime writers, philosophers, and artists worked. Selected works of representative authors. Conducted in French.
FR 402. Aux Armes! Revolutions in the French-speaking World. 3 Hours.
This course reflects on the major revolutions that occurred in the 18th and 19th century, illustrating the impact of the French Revolution on the history and thought of Europe and the Americas. 3 hours. Conducted in French.
FR 403. Fin-de-Siecle France (1895-1940). 3 Hours.
Major literary and artistic movements of fin-de-siecle France, from La Belle Epoque period through World War I. Selected works of representative authors. Selections will vary according to instructor. Conducted in French.
FR 404. French Literature since 1940. 3 Hours.
Cultural trends and literary movements from World War II to the present, including existentialism and the Nouveau Roman. Selected works of representative authors. Selections will vary according to instructor. Conducted in French.
FR 405. Race, Gender, and Transnationalism in Francophone Literature and Thought. 3 Hours.
French-speaking literature outside France that developed through colonization, decolonization, revolution, and emigration. Representative writers from Francophone countries with emphasis on Africa and the Caribbean. Selected works of representative authors. Selections will vary according to instructor. Conducted in French.
FR 410. Special Topics in French. 3 Hours.
Seminar on individual authors, specific genres, important literary movements, or literary discourse/theory. Selected works of representative authors. Selections will vary according to instructor. Conducted in French. May be repeated for credit.
FR 412. French Civilization:before 1789 Pre-Revolutionary. 3 Hours.
Historical and cultural foundation of France, from its conquest by Julius Caesar to the French Revolution. Conducted in French.
FR 413. French Civilization after 1789 Post-Revolutionary. 3 Hours.
The history and myths of France after the French Revolution that produced French civilization. Conducted in French.
FR 421. Literature and the Environment in the French-Speaking World. 3 Hours.
This course examines the poetics of the environment, known as ecopoetics, in the 20th- and 21th-century literary and cultural productions of the Francophone world, notably France, the Caribbean and Africa. It explores how francophone poets, fiction writers and philosophers write and think about the environment in relation to tradition, memory, sexuality, law, poverty and global capitalism. This course pays particular attention to the role of the environment as a space to discuss historical and cultural events, ranging from colonization to the Anthropocene. Conducted in French.
FR 490. Study Abroad: French. 1-9 Hour.
Approved program in a French-speaking country.
FR 499. Directed Studies. 1-3 Hour.
Individualized course of directed readings and activities for students of French. Permission of Department Chair required.
GN-German Courses
GN 101. Introductory German I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where German is spoken. This course meets the Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
GN 101L. Introductory German I Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory German I. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
GN 102. Introductory German II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where German is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perpectives & Civic Engagement.
GN 102L. Introductory German II Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory German II.
GN 190. Study Abroad. 1-8 Hour.
Approved novice-level program in German-speaking country. Course of study will vary according to array of approved offering and student interest. Permission of the Department Chair and Director of Education Abroad required.
GN 201. Intermediate German I. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to help students make the transition to natural communication and develop the language-learning process by focusing on the expansion of necessary elements for development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by using cultural and literary readings as well as grammatical exercises. It also provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where German is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with flags in Sustainability and Global & Multicultural Perspectives.
GN 202. Intermediate German II. 3 Hours.
Continuation of GN 201. Conducted in German. This course meets the Core Curriculum requirements for Area II: Humanities.
GN 203. German Culture and Civilization. 3 Hours.
Introduction to historical and contemporary aspects of German culture through readings and other media. Emphasizes continued development of oral and written skills. Conducted in German.
GN 204. Readings in German Literature. 3 Hours.
Selections from representative modern authors. Emphasis on oral and written practice. Conducted in German. This course meets the Core Curriculum requirements for Area II: Humanities.
GN 205. German for the Professions. 3 Hours.
Intensive conversation course designed to acquaint students with more extensive vocabulary of German-speaking professionals. Students also learn about the cultural context in which German is used in various professions. Conducted in German.
GN 206. German for Technology and Media. 3 Hours.
Practice in the use of technology and media in German Studies. Conducted in German.
GN 210. German Culture and Civilization II. 3 Hours.
Highlights of cultural history from the Middle Ages to the present.
GN 290. Study Abroad. 1-12 Hour.
Approved program in a German-speaking country.
GN 299. Special Readings in German. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for intermediate students of German. Course design is determined by the instructor and the student, and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of German language and culture. Intermediate proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking German is the targeted outcome. Permission of Department Chair required.
Prerequisites: GN 201 [Min Grade: D]
GN 390. Study Abroad. 1-9 Hour.
Approved program in a German-speaking country.
GN 399. Directed Readings in German. 3 Hours.
Special Readings in German.
GN 480. Special Topics in German Literature. 3 Hours.
Emphasis on particular authors, genres, or topics. May be repeated for credit.
GN 490. Study Abroad: German. 1-9 Hour.
Approved program in a German-speaking country.
GN 499. Directed Studies in German. 3 Hours.
Directed studies. Permission of Department Chair required.
ITL-Italian Courses
ITL 101. Introductory Italian I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Italian is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with a flag in Global & Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
ITL 101L. Introductory Italian I Lab. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Italian I. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
ITL 102. Introductory Italian II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Italian is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
Prerequisites: ITL 101 [Min Grade: D]
ITL 102L. Introductory Italian II Lab. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Italian II.
ITL 190. Study Abroad: Italian. 1-8 Hour.
Approved novice level study abroad program in an Italian-speaking country.
ITL 201. Intermediate Italian I. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to help students make the transition to natural communication and develop the language-learning process by focusing on the expansion of necessary elements for development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by using cultural and literary readings as well as grammatical exercises. It also provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Italian is spoken.
ITL 290. Study Abroad. 1-12 Hour.
Approved program in an Italian-speaking country.
ITL 299. Directed Readings in Italian. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for intermediate Italian students. Course design is determined by the instructor and student, and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of Italian language and culture. Intermediate proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Italian is the targeted outcome. Permission of Department Chair required.
ITL 390. Study Abroad. 1-6 Hour.
Approved upper level study abroad program in an Italian-speaking country. Permission of Department Chair and Study Abroad Director.
ITL 399. Independent Study. 3 Hours.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for advanced students of Italian language and culture. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of the Italian language and culture. Intermediate-high or Advanced-low proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Italian is the targeted outcome. Permission of the Department Chair required.
JPA-Japanese Courses
JPA 101. Introductory Japanese I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Japanese is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
JPA 101L. Introductory Japanese I Lab. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Japanese I. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
JPA 102. Introductory Japanese II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Japanese is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
Prerequisites: JPA 101 [Min Grade: D]
JPA 102L. Introductory Japanese Lab II. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Japanese II.
JPA 190. Study Abroad. 1-8 Hour.
Approved novice level study abroad program in Japan. Permission of Department Chair required.
JPA 201. Intermediate Japanese I. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to help students make the transition to natural communication and develop the language-learning process by focusing on the expansion of necessary elements for development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by using cultural and literary readings as well as grammatical exercises. It also provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Japanese is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with flags in Wellness/Wellbeing and Global Multicultural Perspectives.
Prerequisites: JPA 102 [Min Grade: D]
JPA 202. Intermediate Japanese II. 3 Hours.
Continuation of JPA 201. Conducted in Japanese. (CORE AREA II).
Prerequisites: JPA 201 [Min Grade: D]
JPA 203. Intermediate Japanese Language & Culture I. 3 Hours.
This course aims at improving students' linguistic and cultural fluency necessary for functioning in Japanese. Class activities will consist of communicative exercises such as role-playing. While emphasis will be placed on oral skills, attention will also be given to the written Japanese that one encounters in daily life, particularly in signage and forms. Topics may include: Conversational Japanese in such settings as restaurant, store, public transportation, airport, post office, hospital, home-stay, hotel, and local attractions.
Prerequisites: JPA 102 [Min Grade: D]
JPA 204. Intermediate Japanese Language & Culture II. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on developing students' reading and writing skills to increase Japanese literacy. It will also expand students' vocabulary, grammatical understanding, listening and speaking. Topics may include: Examples will be taken from authentic popular literature, manga and anime, folktales, letters, e-mails and songs. Students will learn how to write basic compositions and make speeches.
Prerequisites: JPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 205. Japanese Anime and Manga. 3 Hours.
This course is a survey of Japanese popular visual culture – Anime (animation) and manga (comic books) – from their beginnings in the middle of the 20th century to the present. This course explores each as a Japanese medium and critically examines how they interact with history and society in Japan. Through analyzing manga and anime, this course gives students an opportunity to learn Japanese language in an enjoyable way. Conducted in Japanese.
Prerequisites: JPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 206. Business Japanese. 3 Hours.
Japanese course focusing on the effective communication skills essential in professional fields and the understanding of the Japanese business world. Students develop their verbal, listening, reading, and writing proficiency in business Japanese and acquire culturally appropriate inter-personal communication skills needed to deal with a variety of business situations. Students are expected to effectively employ their language skills to explore and analyze current business trends and issues in Japan. Conducted in Japanese.
Prerequisites: JPA 203 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 210. Discourse and Culture in Japanese. 3 Hours.
Study of the significance of cultural knowledge in understanding the meaning of language. The course focuses Japanese learners to understand values, expectations and appropriate behavior in Japanese culture, as well as the theoretical underpinnings of pragmatics and discourse analysis. Conducted in Japanese.
Prerequisites: JPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 211. Contemporary Issues in Japanese Society. 3 Hours.
Study of selected themes in contemporary Japanese society and culture, through reading and discussion of contemporary debates in periodicals, news sources and other media. Readings will focus on such themes as work and social pressure, gender inequality, social alienation, declining birthrates, aging and social support, media images, and education. Conducted in Japanese.
Prerequisites: JPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 290. Japanese for Study Abroad. 1-12 Hour.
This study-abroad Japanese course aims at improving students' oral fluency. It will help students develop intermediary conversational skills as they study in total immersion. The emphasis will be on efficient target language production at the intermediate level, as well as an oral and comprehension skills, communicative strategies, and the acquisition of vocabulary relating to a variety of domains. The course content will also include discussion and analysis of current cultural topics. JPA 290 will be conducted entirely in Japanese. Permission of department chair required.
JPA 299. Directed Readings in Japanese. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for intermediate Japanese students. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowedge of Japanese language and culture. Intermediate proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Japanese is the targeted outcome. Prerequisites: JPA 202 or equivalent.
Prerequisites: JPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 301. Advanced Japanese I. 3 Hours.
Continued development of Japanese speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities, using materials dealing primarily with everyday life and civilization in Japan from a variety of sources. Conducted primarily in Japanese.
Prerequisites: JPA 204 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 302. Advanced Japanese II. 3 Hours.
Further work to develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities in Japanese, on the basis of materials dealing with the ideas and events that have shaped present-day Japan. Conducted primarily in Japanese.
Prerequisites: JPA 301 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 303. Japanese Pragmatics I. 3 Hours.
This course integrates understanding the learning of the language and the understanding of the culture. Students will be able to learn Japanese culture and acquire language proficiency by incorporating the four skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Speaking and listening skills will be practiced through various classroom activities. The course will discuss five Japanese speech acts: 1) giving/responding to compliments, 2) thanking, 3) requesting, 4) refusing and 5) apologizing. Students will be required to read materials intensively and extensively, and write compositions. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 304. Japanese Culture and Civilization. 3 Hours.
Survey of the origins and development of Japanese culture: art, literature, religion, philosophy, political and social institutions from earliest to modern times. An overview of cultural traditions for those with a general interest in Japan. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 305. Japanese Children Stories. 3 Hours.
Readings of and discussions on selected modern Japanese Children literary texts of different genres including poetry, short stories, novels and plays. When available, relevant video materials will be shown in class. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 306. Advanced Business Japanese. 3 Hours.
Advanced Japanese course focusing on the effective advanced communication skills essential in professional fields and the understanding of the Japanese business world. Students develop their advanced verbal, listening, reading, and writing proficiency in business Japanese and acquire culturally appropriate inter-personal communication skills needed to deal with a variety of business situations. Students are expected to effectively employ their language skills to explore and analyze current business trends and issues in Japan. Conducted in Japanese.
Prerequisites: JPA 204 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 307. Japanese Translation I. 3 Hours.
This advanced-low level course focuses on training students in skills in translating Japanese into English to prepare them for a career in which such skills are required, such as the business world or foreign relations. Cannot be taken concurrently with JPA 407. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 308. Japanese Cinema I. 3 Hours.
This course offers a survey of Japanese cinema in 21st century and it focuses on the viewing and discussion of films. Through taking this course, students will understand Japanese culture and social behavior and their role in effective interpersonal communication. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 309. Japanese Language and Society I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces the linguistic and social aspects of Japanese language by reading about how various psycho-linguistic nuances, social constructs, and historical meanings are expressed, reinforced, reflected, and transformed through everyday conversations, visual media discourse, textual mediums, and other forms of communication. Students read and discuss authentic texts in Japanese and learn meanings, beliefs, and histories embedded in the specific uses of Japanese language. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 310. Advanced Reading and Writing I. 3 Hours.
This course aims to improve students’ reading and writing skills in Japanese by engaging in Tadoku, extensive reading. Students will enhance their Japanese proficiency through reading and writing materials that match their proficiency level. By the end of the course, students will be able to read Japanese passages fluently and smoothly and write their ideas in Japanese at an advanced proficiency level. Students will also increase their vocabulary through a range of reading and writing activities. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 390. Study Abroad. 1-9 Hour.
Approved upper-level study abroad program in a Japanese-speaking country. Permission of Department Chair and Study Abroad Director.
JPA 399. Directed Readings: Japanese. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for advanced students of Japanese language and culture. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of the Japanese language and culture. Intermediate-high or Advanced-low proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Japanese is the targeted outcome. Permission of the Department Chair required.
Prerequisites: JPA 201 [Min Grade: C]
JPA 401. Advanced Japanese III. 3 Hours.
Advanced work on the development of Japanese speaking, reading, and writing abilities, focusing on materials dealing with culture and the arts of Japan. Extensive readings in advanced general and specialized texts in contemporary Japanese, and discussion on the content of the reading materials. Online materials also used. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 402. Advanced Japanese IV. 3 Hours.
Further advanced work on speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities in Japanese. Course materials will cover a variety of topics illustrated in film and other media, both print and non-print. Extensive readings in advanced general and specialized texts in contemporary Japanese, and discussion on the content of the reading materials. Online materials also used. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 403. Japanese Pragmatics II. 3 Hours.
Developing pragmatic competence is crucial for second language learners. However, previous researchers have argued that pragmatic competence is often learned late. It is crucial that students communicate in an accurate and appropriate way if they wish to become good communicators. This course is designed for students to become proficient in conveying their ideas and feelings appropriately in Japanese. Students will be able to use Japanese appropriately in various situations. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 404. Japanese Popular Culture. 3 Hours.
The main goal is primarily intended to increase students’ knowledge of contemporary Japanese popular culture through exploration of various topics from historical and theoretical perspectives. In this course, students are expected to make the shift from gaining knowledge of broaden intellectual information, to apply the knowledge to critically analyze the target culture, develop critical insights into the nature of the culture through comparing the target culture and their own, and express their judgments about the knowledge. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 405. Japanese Literature. 3 Hours.
Readings of and discussions on selected modern Japanese literary texts of different genres including poetry, short stories, novels and plays. When available, relevant video materials will be shown in class. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 406. Advanced Japanese for the Professions. 3 Hours.
Advanced Japanese for the Professions focuses on the effective advanced communication skills essential in professional fields and the understanding of the Japanese business world. Students further develop their advanced verbal, listening, reading, and writing proficiency in business Japanese and acquire culturally appropriate inter-personal communication skills needed to deal with a variety of business situations. Students will effectively learn to employ their language skills to explore and analyze current business and professional trends, and cultural issues in Japan. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 407. Japanese Translation II. 3 Hours.
This advanced course focuses on training students in skills in translating Japanese into English, and vise versa, to prepare them for a career in which such skills are required, such as the business world or foreign relations. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 408. Japanese Cinema II. 3 Hours.
This advanced course offers a survey of Japanese cinema in 21st century and focuses on the viewing and discussion of films. Through taking this course, students will understand Japanese culture and social behavior and their role in effective interpersonal communication. Students will gain sociolinguistic awareness and competency in the appropriate use of politeness. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 409. Japanese Language and Society II. 3 Hours.
This advanced course explores in depth the linguistic and social aspects of Japanese language by reading about and analyzing how various psycho-linguistic, socio-cultural, and historical constructs are expressed, reinforced, reflected, and transformed through the way in which Japanese language is used. Students both discuss authentic written texts in Japanese and critically examine ideologies embedded in specific uses of Japanese language. This course further provides opportunities for students to analyze Japanese language use by employing concepts learned in class. In doing so, the course encourages students to reflect objectively on their own linguistic choices and further polish their second language skills. This course cannot be taken concurrently with JPA309. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 410. Advanced Reading and Writing II. 3 Hours.
This course aims to further develop students’ advanced reading and writing skills in Japanese by engaging in Tadoku, extensive reading. Students will enhance their Japanese proficiency through reading and writing materials that match their proficiency level. By the end of semester, students will be able to read Japanese passages fluently and smoothly and write their ideas in Japanese at an advanced proficiency level. Students will also increase their vocabulary through a range of reading and writing activities. This course cannot be taken concurrently with JPA 310. Conducted in Japanese.
JPA 490. Study Abroad: Japan. 1-9 Hour.
Approved upper-level study-abroad program in Japan. Permission of Department Chair and Study-Abroad Director.
JPA 499. Directed Readings: Japanese. 1-3 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and research for advanced students of Japanese language and culture. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy in and knowledge of the Japanese language and culture. Advanced-mid or advanced-high proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking Japanese is the targeted outcome. Permission of the Department Chair required.
Prerequisites: JPA 301 [Min Grade: C]
LT-Foreign Literature English Courses
LT 420. World Literature I. 3 Hours.
Selections in translation from Greek, Latin, and Hebrew classics as well as other world literature, and from oral tradition.
LT 421. World Literature II. 3 Hours.
Selections in translation from world writers. Overview of a rotating selection of genres, texts, author, societies and regions of the world.
LT 425. French Literature in English Translation. 3 Hours.
Selections in translation from major Francophone writers. Overview of a rotating selection of genres texts and authors. Focus on the relevant questions of genre and on the French-speaking societies in which the works were produced.
LT 426. German Literature in English Translation. 3 Hours.
Selections in translation from majpr Spanish or Hispano-American writers. Overview of rotating selection of genres, texts, authors, and regions of the Hispanic World. Focus on the relevant questions of genre and on the German-speaking society in which the works were produced.
LT 427. Spanish and/or Spanish- American Literature in English. 3 Hours.
Selections in translation from major Spanish or Hispano-American writers. Overview of a rotating selection of genres, texts, authors and regions of the Hispanic World. Focus on the relevant questions of genre and on the Spanish-speaking societies in which the works were produced.
LT 430. Brazilian or Portuguese Literature in English Translation. 3 Hours.
Selections in translation from major Portugues or Brazillian writers. Overview of a rotating selection of genres, text, authors, and regions of the Lusophone World. Focus on the relevant questions of genre and on the Portuguese-speaking societies in which the works were produced.
LT 431. Individual Studies. 1-3 Hour.
Individualized course of directed readings and activities for students of languages other than those commonly taught at UAB. Permission of department chair required.
POR - Portuguese Courses
POR 101. Introductory Portuguese I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Portuguese is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
POR 101L. Introductory Portuguese I Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Portuguese I. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Communicating in the Modern World with flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives and Civic Engagement.
POR 102. Introductory Portuguese II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Portuguese is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
Prerequisites: POR 101 [Min Grade: C]
POR 102L. Introductory Portuguese II Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Portuguese II.
SPA-Spanish Courses
SPA 101. Introductory Spanish I. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to the language by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Spanish is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
SPA 101L. Introductory Spanish I Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Spanish I. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
SPA 102. Introductory Spanish II. 3 Hours.
This course continues to develop the language-learning process by focusing on the acquisition of essential elements for basic communication and development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) for communicating in daily life situations, as well as provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Spanish is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
SPA 102L. Introductory Spanish II Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Lab for Introductory Spanish II.
SPA 108. Introductory Intensive Spanish. 4 Hours.
Accelerated essentials of language and culture needed for communication. Includes listening comprehension, speaking, writing, and reading. Fast-paced review of SPA 101 and SPA 102. Conducted in Spanish. This course meets the Core Curriculum requirements for Area II: Humanities.
SPA 180. Spanish for Health Professionals. 3 Hours.
Intensive conversation course to expose health professionals to basic vocabulary of Spanish-speaking patients. Focus on practical vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and cultural patterns of Spanish-speaking patients with little or no proficiency in English. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 190. Study Abroad. 1-8 Hour.
Approved program in a Spanish-speaking country.
SPA 201. Intermediate Spanish I. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to help students make the transition to natural communication and develop the language-learning process by focusing on the expansion of necessary elements for development of the practical language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by using cultural and literary readings as well as grammatical exercises. It also provides a broader awareness of and appreciation for the cultures of the countries where Spanish is spoken. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with flags in Wellness/Wellbeing and Global Multicultural Perspectives.
SPA 202. Intermediate Spanish II. 3 Hours.
Continuation of SPA 201. Conducted in Spanish. This course meets the Core Curriculum requirements for Area II: Humanities.
SPA 203. Intermediate Spanish Review. 3 Hours.
This course is designed as a review of the content covered in Introductory Spanish I, Introductory Spanish II, Intermediate Spanish I, and Intermediate Spanish II, while deepening the knowledge and understanding about different grammatical and cultural topics. This course is especially useful for students who have already taken Spanish courses at the intermediate level but whose exposure has been limited or fragmented in recent times. The primary focus of this course is to improve communication skills in Spanish. Therefore, Spanish is the language of instruction.
Prerequisites: SPA 201 [Min Grade: D]
SPA 206. Intermediate Spanish for the Professions. 3 Hours.
This intermediate course bridges the gap between personal and professional contexts. Course aims to facilitate acquisition of more sophisticated vocabulary related to the professional world, increased grammatical accuracy, sentence- to paragraph-level discourse, and a deeper understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures. Both course and online learning management system, Canvas, are delivered in Spanish. The online version of this course is Quality Matters (QM) certified.
Prerequisites: SPA 201 [Min Grade: C] or SPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
SPA 210. Conversation and Culture. 3 Hours.
Development of oral expression within the context of contemporary Spanish-speaking cultures. Intermediate Spanish course recommended for students who have completed Spanish 201. Oral proficiency developed through conversation partners and teams. Internet technology is used to facilitate communication. Culture is learned through film and other authentic texts. Final project synthesizes cultural topics and oral language skills. Conducted in Spanish.
Prerequisites: SPA 201 [Min Grade: C] or SPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
SPA 214. Introduction to Translation for the Professions. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on the improvement of the Spanish language through translation. While studying basic aspects of translation and translating short texts from a variety of sources in the context of contemporary situations, students review the most important and complex structures of the Spanish language as they relate to English. Students will work in a collaborative workshop format –in Spanish– in order to better understand the process of translating and editing one’s work.
Prerequisites: SPA 201 [Min Grade: C]
SPA 233. Intermediate Spanish Grammar in Context. 3 Hours.
This course is an intermediate-level Spanish course that focuses on the language skills of writing and speaking. It has been designed to help students improve their proficiency and fluidity in the language and in the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world, focusing on grammatical understanding, and written and oral communication in formal and informal situations. All the while, the course exposes students to a variety of authentic cultural contexts in the Hispanic world.
Prerequisites: SPA 201 [Min Grade: C] or SPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
SPA 280. Spanish for Health Professionals. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on the Spanish-speaking health-related culture, presenting practical vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, medical terminology, and cultural attitudes of Spanish-speaking patients towards health issues. This course builds and develops the speaking, listening, and reading skills by emphasizing intensive conversation, technical reading, and vocabulary acquisition. Conducted in Spanish.
Prerequisites: SPA 201 [Min Grade: C] or SPA 202 [Min Grade: C]
SPA 290. Study Abroad. 1-12 Hour.
Approved program in a Spanish-speaking country.
SPA 299. Special Readings in Spanish. 1-3 Hour.
Directed readings in intermediate Spanish. Studies select texts of the Spanish-speaking world to increase overall literacy in Spanish.
SPA 300. Advanced Grammar in Context. 3 Hours.
Designed to improve the use of fundamental grammatical structures of Spanish in diverse contexts. Strong emphasis is given to the development of writing skills that are appropriate for this level. Six hours of SPA courses at the minor level required. Writing is a significant component of this course. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 304. Phonetics and Phonology. 3 Hours.
Course focuses on how the Spanish sound system functions in various regions. Development of pronunciation through oral practice. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 310. Cultures of the Spanish-Speaking World. 3 Hours.
Historical overview of the heritage of Spain, Latin America, and the Hispanic U.S., with emphasis on social, political, and economic institutions. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 311. Greatest Hits of Hispanic Literature I. 3 Hours.
This course is an overview of Spanish civilization, culture, literature, and the arts from early to contemporary times. Highlights of best selling works of various authors, with emphasis on fundamental literary concepts and distinctive stylistic features of Spanish discourse, will be reviewed. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 312. Greatest Hits of Hispanic Literature II. 3 Hours.
This course is an overview of Latin American civilization, culture, literature, and the arts from early to contemporary times. Highlights of best selling works of various authors, with emphasis on fundamental literary concepts and distinctive stylistic features of Spanish discourse, will be reviewed. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 313. Business Spanish. 3 Hours.
This advanced course introduces the student to essential business terminology and language situations in common business contexts. Course reinforces strategies for understanding, interpreting, responding to new information and the importance of cultural awareness in doing business in Spanish-speaking countries or with Hispanics in the United States. Both course and the online learning management system, Canvas, are delivered in Spanish. The online version of this course is Quality Matters (QM) Certified.
SPA 314. Applied Spanish Translation and Interpretation. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on the improvement of the Spanish language for the professions through translation. While studying general aspects of translation and interpretation, and translating short texts from a variety of sources within the context of the professions, such as business, health, journalism (magazines, papers, and TV), legal, sports, and technology, students review the most important and complex structures of the Spanish language as they relate to English with an emphasis on vocabulary building. Students will work in a collaborative workshop format –in Spanish– in order to improve the process of translating, interpreting, and editing one’s work. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 320. Hispanic Cultures Through Culinary Art. 3 Hours.
This course has been designed for advanced Spanish students to develop an understanding of cultural differences within the Spanish-speaking world through culinary art. The course focuses on cultural competence in order to appreciate the importance of food in culture and the different cooking styles of the Hispanic World. Students will discover how Hispanics shape cultural values around the kitchen table, such as business, family, holidays, and traditions. Such a thematic approach will allow students to penetrate into the universal commonalities among cultures, as well as to appreciate important differences in the various cultures. This course also develops necessary communicative skills for a professional career in the culinary sector. Offered in Spanish.
SPA 350. Hispanic Children Stories. 3 Hours.
This course has been designed to help students of Spanish transition from an intermediate to an advanced level of proficiency in the language, and move students to learn content through language and language through content. It focuses on the language skill of reading, through the exploration and understanding of Hispanic Children’s literature. This is an innovative way to introduce the literatures and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 380. Advanced Spanish for Health Professionals. 3 Hours.
This advanced course emphasizes intensive Spanish conversation, technical readings and vocabulary pertinent to the medical field. The course focuses on practical vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, medical terminology and cultural patterns of Spanish-speaking patients, and further expands on functions and notions of the language related to the medical field. Course conducted in Spanish.
SPA 390. Study Abroad. 1-9 Hour.
Approved program in a Spanish-speaking country.
SPA 399. Special Readings in Spanish. 1-3 Hour.
Directed readings in Spanish.
SPA 401. Voices of Imperial Spain. 3 Hours.
Culture and civilization of Imperial Spain from the age of the Catholic Monarchs to the close of the Hapsburg Dynasty (1469-1716). Includes a study of the art, historical documents and literature from both the center and periphery of the Empire. Selected works by representative authors will vary according to instructor. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 402. Voices of Colonial Latin America. 3 Hours.
Culture and civilization of Colonial Latin America from the advent of European dominance to the decades following the Spanish American War (1492-1920). Emphasis on the blending of Spanish, Amerindian, and African cultural forms and their diverse literary expressions. Selected works by representative authors will vary according to instructor. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 403. Contemporary Spanish Literature and Film. 3 Hours.
Cultural and literary trends of Spain from the transformation of Spanish society in the late nineteenth century to the post-Franco era. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 404. Medicine and Literature in the Spanish-Speaking World. 3 Hours.
How does literature help us to understand the relationship between medicine, culture, and politics? This class, which seeks answers and related questions, focuses on the role of medical science in literary and cultural texts from Latin American countries, Spain, and the United States. Students will read short stories, poems, novel excerpts, and essays, and they will interpret films and visual art to discuss how science and the humanities supplement one another to create a richer understanding of the human body and its role in the historical development of Europe and the Americas. Offered in Spanish.
SPA 405. US Latino Writers. 3 Hours.
Focus on the growing body of literature written by Latinos in the United States. Explores Latino issues and cultural identity through the analysis of their narrative works and experience. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 407. Indigenous and Indigenist Latin America. 3 Hours.
Cultural and literary forms of Amerindian, Hispanic or mixed-descent writers of Latin America. Focus on the concepts of hybridity, syncretism and mestizaje. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 409. Spanish-Speaking Nobel Laureates. 3 Hours.
This course offers a survey of the Hispanic authors who have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature since the award’s founding in 1901, such as Gabriela Mistral (1945), Pablo Neruda (1971), Gabriel García Márquez (1982), Camilo José Cela (1989), and Octavio Paz (1990). The panorama will include critical discussions and reflections on the writings of these authors. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 411. Cervantes and the Quixote. 3 Hours.
This course will review the major episodes of Don Quixote de La Mancha, one of the most influential works of Spanish and World literature, as well as other selected works written by Cervantes. Emphasis will be given to the author’s unique contribution to the birth of the modern novel and his ingenuity to create stories that transformed all literary genres. These readings will be analyzed within the civilization of the Golden Age of Spain, while exploring a diverse array of topics, such as: love and marriage, religion, race, class, magic, madness, and honor. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 412. Voices of Contemporary Latin America 1920-Present. 3 Hours.
Cultural and literary trends of Latin America from la nueva narrativa through the Boom and post-Boom periods. Focus on Mexico, Northern Latin America, and the Southern Cone. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 414. Afro-Latin American Literature and Culture. 3 Hours.
The diverse cultures of many Latin American nations will be discussed with a focus on the descendants of Africa in the Americas. Slavery will be discussed during the colonial and independence periods. Black identity and cultural forms will be discussed through the writers, musicians, and filmmakers of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Parallels and connections will be drawn to race and history in the United States. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 416. Special Topics in Spanish. 3 Hours.
Seminar on individual authors, specific genres, literary movements, literary discourse/theory, or transatlantic studies. Conducted in Spanish. May be repeated for credit.
SPA 420. Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics. 3 Hours.
This advanced Spanish linguistics course is intended to analyze, clarify and expand upon critical aspects of the Spanish language. The course will provide a general understanding of the Spanish sound system (phonetics and phonology), morphology and syntax, as well as an introduction to relevant topics within the field of Hispanic linguistics.
SPA 430. Spanish Sociolinguistics. 3 Hours.
This advanced Spanish linguistics course provides a general overview of sociolinguistics and the pragmatics of oral communication in Spanish. This course studies the Spanish language in its social context. In addition to specific regional linguistic features, social factors such as geography, social class, politics, race, gender, economics, education and history are discussed as determiners of the linguistic landscape.
SPA 440. History of Spanish Language. 3 Hours.
This advanced Spanish linguistics course provides a general overview of the evolution of Spanish language, while relating it to relevant historical events. It pays special attention to diachronic change in order to understand the phenomenon of language variation in a multicultural society.
SPA 450. Spanish Second Language Acquisition. 3 Hours.
This course describes the cognitive, developmental and linguistic processes involved in the acquisition of Spanish as a second language while exploring the basic research techniques used in the field.
Prerequisites: SPA 300 [Min Grade: D]
SPA 455. Pop Culture in Translation. 3 Hours.
This course aims at further developing students’ proficiency in the language as well as an understanding of the process of translation through translation from English into Spanish and vice versa. Students will develop their translation skills through a number of activities translating cartoons, popular songs, professional documents, and slam poetry. Students will also increase their theoretical understanding of the translation process from a linguistic point of view. This course involves a translation project originated and connected with the professional needs of the Birmingham area and beyond. Offered in Spanish.
SPA 460. Globalization in the Hispanic World. 3 Hours.
This course develops a constructivist framework for the study of contemporary globalization issues in the Hispanic world by engaging students in higher-level discussions and critical thinking. Through films, music and literature, and guided research, course explores history, politics, economics and sociocultural issues of the recent Spanish-speaking world. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 461. Contemporary Spain. 3 Hours.
This course develops a constructivist framework for the study of contemporary Spain by engaging students in higher-level discussions and critical thinking. Through films, music and literature, and guided research, course explores recent Spanish history, politics, economics and sociocultural issues. Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 462. Contemporary Latin America. 3 Hours.
This course develops a constructivist framework for the study of contemporary Latin America by engaging students in higher-level discussions, critical thinking, and active learning. Through films, music and literature (poems, short stories and novel excerpts), and guided research, course explores recent Latin American history (late 20th and 21st centuries), politics, economics and sociocultural issues and their global impact, such as the construction of a new Hispanic American identity and nationalism; the new Mexico after the Revolution; the Cuban Revolution and its aftermath; Central American revolutions and their peace processes; and the processes of democratization, development and integration in South America. Course conducted in Spanish.
SPA 480. Applied Spanish and Medical Interpreting. 3 Hours.
The course blends an academic curriculum on Spanish for healthcare and medical interpreting with a semester-long service-learning project where students will work with a community partner and apply course materials to real-life situations pertaining the health of Latinos. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have satisfied the medical interpreting training required to take the medical interpreting examinations offered by the two certification organizations in the area (CCHI and NBCMI). Conducted in Spanish.
SPA 485. Spanish for Leadership at the Workplace. 3 Hours.
This is a culminating course in the Applied Professional Spanish major concentration. The course provides an opportunity to practice professional Spanish through service-learning by requiring a practical experience locally or abroad. Students work side by side with well-established community partners to explore and transform the community’s linguistic landscape in order to make public spaces more accessible, inclusive and welcoming to the Spanish-speaking community. Course conducted in Spanish.
SPA 490. Study Abroad: Spanish. 1-9 Hour.
Approved program in a Spanish-speaking country.
SPA 499. Directed Studies. 1-3 Hour.
Directed readings in Spanish. Conducted in Spanish.
WLL-World Languages & Lit Courses
WLL 101. Introductory World Language I. 3 Hours.
Introduction to a less commonly taught World Language and culture. Essentials of language and culture needed for communication. Includes listening comprehension, speaking, writing, and reading. Offered on demand in target language. Language selection rotates. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
WLL 101L. Introductory World Language I Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Online practice lab for WLL 101.
WLL 102. Introductory World Language II. 3 Hours.
This course continues introducing students to a less commonly taught World Language and culture. Essentials of language and culture needed for communication. Includes listening comprehension, speaking, writing, and reading. Offered on demand in target language. Language selection rotates. This course meets Blazer Core Communicating in the Modern World with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives & Civic Engagement.
Prerequisites: WLL 101 [Min Grade: C]
WLL 102L. Introductory World Language II Lab Practice. 1 Hour.
Online Introductory World Language II practice lab. Taken concurrently with WLL 102.
Prerequisites: WLL 101 [Min Grade: C]
WLL 110. Chinese Calligraphy and Mindfulness. 1 Hour.
This course is a combination of Chinese calligraphy and mindfulness, designed to teach students how to use calligraphy as a form of mindfulness practice. It is aimed at college-level students who are interested in improving their focus and attention span while also developing their artistic skills. The course covers beginning practical and creative uses of Chinese calligraphy, principles, techniques, and functions. Includes the traditions and historical development of Chinese characters.
WLL 112. Chinese Calligraphy and Mindfulness. 1 Hour.
This course is a combination of Chinese calligraphy and mindfulness, designed to teach students how to use calligraphy as a form of mindfulness practice. It is aimed at college-level students who are interested in improving their focus and attention span while also developing their artistic skills. The course covers beginning practical and creative uses of Chinese calligraphy, principles, techniques, and functions. Includes the traditions and historical development of Chinese characters.
WLL 115. Experiencing Japanese Culture in Birmingham. 3 Hours.
This service-learning course will offer students a chance to discover and experience Japanese culture in Birmingham. Although the size of the Japanese community in southern US states is relatively small compared to other parts of the country, Birmingham offers a surprisingly rich context for learning Japanese culture, including a Japanese garden, tea ceremonies, calligraphy, martial arts, architecture, cuisine, festivals, traditional kimono dress, and so forth. Taking this course will enhance students’ awareness and appreciation of an Asian culture and contribute to greater diversity, equity, and inclusion among students as they create a discrimination-free society and become global citizens. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum City as a Classroom and Service Learning requirements and Global/Multicultural and High Impact Practices flags.
WLL 118. City as Main Character. 3 Hours.
This course considers the role of the city in cinema as a method for identifying key themes within the city of Birmingham, Alabama. Films with a focus on the city offer us insights into the challenges brought with urban living, such as, but not limited to racial relations, bilingualism, immigration, class difference, labor, physical and mental health, crime and the city’s relationship to rural communities. Paired along with articles, short films, websites and other media about the history and current state of Birmingham, as well as field trips to destinations within the city, we will watch films about Mexico City, Berlin, Seoul, Tokyo and Cairo among others. Along the way, students will learn how to identify and analyze the city through a cinematic lens. All films are available with English subtitles. All other readings are in English or English translation. This course has no prerequisites. This course falls under the rubric of “City as Classroom” in the Blazer Core and has the Global/Multicultural Perspectives and Undergraduate Research flags.
WLL 120. World Cultures. 3 Hours.
Exploration of the customs, traditions, languages, ancestry, religions, values, and institutions of varied western and non-western nations through the use of humanities disciplines. Strong emphasis on the epistemology, production, and reception of culture, within and beyond the borders of a particular nation-state. Ethics and Civic Responsibility are significant components of this course. This course meets Blazer Core Humans and their Societies with Flags in Global Multicultural Perspectives and High Impact Practices/Service Learning, Community-Based Learning.
WLL 121. Songs of Social Change through World Cultures. 3 Hours.
This course introduces students to some of the most significant cultural topics across the languages and civilizations represented in the DWLL through a cultural medium, such as music. The course, team-taught by selected faculty of the different languages, will explore and reflect on ideas and attitudes, customs and traditions, identities and values of diverse western and non-western civilizations. Offered in English, it does not require previous knowledge of other world languages.
WLL 125. Eating in Birmingham: From Food Banks to Fine Dining. 3 Hours.
This course explores the connection between cuisine and culture at different levels in the restaurant and food scene in Birmingham, AL. Students will analyze the interconnectedness of multicultural influence, economy, history, and culture through the study of iconic Birmingham foods and culinary groups. In this course, students will explore fine dining, food trucks, and locally owned restaurants through kitchen visits and collaboration, chef and cook interviews, and critical reflection on relevant texts and multimedia materials. Students will examine the various factors that influence food availability, tradition, and representation in the local community through a social justice lens and conclude the course with a collaborative research project contributing to the students’ own and local community’s understanding of its relationship with food in the past, present, and future. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum City as a Classroom with a flag in Justice and Undergraduate Research.
WLL 130. My Global Birmingham. 3 Hours.
This experiential learning course is an overview of Birmingham’s connections with countries other than the United States, taught by a specialist in a specific global region, its languages, and its cultures. Precursors to Birmingham’s 1871 foundation include previous cities in Alabama that have determined the city’s ever-global culture. Topics may include but are not limited to nonviolence and job opportunities in a global context. Students will demonstrate understanding of Birmingham’s ties to other nations and regions. They will complete an experiential learning project to interact in a hands-on manner with the Birmingham community. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum City as a Classroom with flags in Global and Multicultural Perspectives and Service Learning, Community Based Learning.
WLL 132. Multicultural City: Heritage through Festivals. 3 Hours.
This course explores the cultural impact of festivals around Birmingham. Students will learn about the history and evolution of festivals, as well as their role in shaping cultural identity and community. The course will also examine a variety of elements that reflect the culture and traditions of the group or community that is hosting festivals, including food and drink, music and dance, arts and crafts, religion and spirituality, clothing and costumes, and cultural education. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and service-learning projects at local festivals and cultural centers, students will gain a deeper understanding of the significance of festivals in contemporary society and apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting while also making a positive impact in the community. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum City as a Classroom with flags in Global and Multicultural Perspectives and Service Learning, Community Based Learning.
WLL 140. Worlds of Anime and Manga. 3 Hours.
This course explores the themes, history, and workings of Japanese animation, or anime, and Japanese comic books, or manga, through various exciting—albeit by no means exhaustive—examples. By reading, viewing, and discussing a series of manga and anime films/series that represent various time periods, genres, and styles, students will develop a critical appreciation for the meanings and sociocultural communications of manga and anime and their legacy today both in Japan and on the global stage. The main questions of this course are: what is anime and manga? How do they function as a medium? And how can we understand their technical and narrative elements in relation to history, environment, culture, and society? No prior Japanese language knowledge is required for this course. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Creative Arts with flags in Global/Multicultural and Sustainability.
WLL 145. Afrodocs: Afro-Iberian and Caribbean History through Film. 3 Hours.
Most of the African diaspora lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. Portugal was the first to enslave based on race, and Spain was the last European power to abolish enslavement. For centuries, Afro-Latin Americans have struggled for representation and citizenship in their respective nations. This course shows how documentary film has been used to provide much-needed representation of Afro-Latin Americans and their diasporas in the United States. Iberian Africa and the Iberian Peninsula are also part of this history. The UNESCO Conference against Racism coined the term “Afrodescendant” and its use to link Black peoples in the Americas and Europe, so films in this course are primarily from the new millennium. Students will learn to establish connections between films, primarily documentaries, depicting key elements of the diaspora as they relate to history and its continuation in the present: 1. Enslavement. 2. The linked phenomena of national independence and the abolition and slavery. 3. Afrodescendant peoples and Marxist revolutions. 4. Afrodescendant immigrants. 5. Racism and policing. 6. Art forms and syncretic religions. Students will interrogate how documentaries inform our understanding of film, history, and the present. This course meets the Blazer Core Curriculum History and Meaning requirement and Justice flag.
WLL 160. Freshman Year Experience: World Languages. 1 Hour.
The objective of this course is to introduce incoming freshmen to an education in world languages and world cultures in context of the university. It is meant to help prepare students for a successful collegiate career in the study of world languages. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum Local Beginnings with flags in First Year Experience and Wellness/Well-being.
WLL 170. Lost in Translation: Navigating College and Beyond. 3 Hours.
This course aims to equip learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in today’s fast-paced and constantly evolving global job market. The course covers a wide range of topics including intercultural communication, study skills, teamwork and collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as effective networking and leadership. Through interactive lectures, discussions and hands-on activities students will learn how to effectively navigate diverse communities, overcome challenges and be successful not only in college but in life.
WLL 179. Films on Latin American Leaders. 3 Hours.
What kind of leader do you want to be? What does a just leader do? Understanding Latin American culture can help students answer these questions. Realistic films depict leaders from a variety of countries and backgrounds in this film course. Conversation and creative activities will help students be more thoughtful, culturally competent leaders in their future career. The final project will focus on ideas for Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month in their future workplace.
WLL 190. Study Abroad: World Languages. 1-8 Hour.
Approved novice level study abroad program for a world language not regularly offered at UAB, which takes place in a foreign country. Permission of the Department Chair and the Study Abroad Director.
WLL 199. Directed Readings: World Languages. 3 Hours.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for novice World Language students in a language that is not offered regularly at UAB. The course may be offered in the case of a visiting professor in a language that is beyond the scope of regular instructional languages. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy and knowledge of world languages.
WLL 220. World Literatures in English Translation. 3 Hours.
Introduction to cross-cultural theory of genre and human experience with a particular emphasis on the historical and cultural context in which literary traditions are shaped, interpreted and reinvented. WLL 220 invites the students to think critically about the formation of literary canons and the ethics of translating cultural difference/sameness. Ethics and Civic Responsibility are significant components of this course. This course meets Blazer Core Creative Arts with Flags in Post-Freshman Writing & Global Multicultural Perspectives.
WLL 230. The International Biopic. 3 Hours.
This course considers the cinematic genre of the biographical film or “biopic” as it is more commonly known, in its various contexts. We will: 1. evaluate the degree to which these films are “historically accurate” and whether historical accuracy is a fair metric by which to assess this genre; 2. additionally appraise the degree to which these biopics bolster national identity with the films’ subjects and their historical moments/ accomplishments; and 3. further gauge their reception on the international stage and consider the global impact of the films’ subjects. These films are in several languages other than English and will be made available with English subtitles. All other readings are in English or English translation. This course meets Blazer Core Curriculum History and Meaning with flags in Post Freshman Writing and Global & Multicultural Perspectives.
WLL 290. Education Abroad: World Languages. 1-12 Hour.
Approved novice level study abroad program for a world language not regularly offered at UAB, which takes place in a foreign country. Permission of the Department Chair and the Study Abroad Director.
WLL 295. Study Abroad and the City. 3 Hours.
This course allows students to explore the city in which study abroad takes place as a physical and cultural entity and compare it to Birmingham and their hometowns. Participants learn aspects of the structure of the city such as the downtown, its significance and components: businesses, markets, restaurants, museums, churches and places of worship, services, means of transportation, sidewalks and bicycle lanes, roads and traffic, parking, and parks and public spaces. The course also examines a variety of elements that reflect the cultures and traditions of the community or communities in the city, such as their languages and linguistic landscapes, culinary traditions and restaurants, festivals, visual and performing arts, religion and spirituality, as well as their cultural identity and its relationship with migration. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, readings, and on-site projects, students will gain a deeper understanding of Birmingham (and beyond) as it compares to their study abroad city, and they will apply their knowledge and exploration by making inferences to other cities and their communities. This course satisfies the City as Classroom requirement of the Blazer Core. This course must be taken in conjunction with other courses in a UAB Education Abroad program.
WLL 299. Directed Readings: World Languages. 3 Hours.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and activities for intermediate World Language students in a world language that is not offered regularly at UAB. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to the needs of the student. The goal of the course is to increase general literacy and knowledge of world languages. Permission of Department Chair required.
WLL 303. History of International Film. 3 Hours.
From the first silent films to the 21st century: comparison and contrast of major international films and filmmakers.
WLL 304. Topics in International Cinema. 3 Hours.
This class offers comparisons and contrasts of films from the modern color sound movie, silent era and digital age based on topics such as genre, region and filmmaker.
WLL 333. World Language Service Learning. 1-6 Hour.
This blended course (online and service learning) presents a faculty-supervised opportunity to engage in local service learning related to international communities with a designated Community Partner. The course provides tasks of international scope with applications of cultural knowledge. This is an official UAB service learning designated course.
WLL 334. World Language Internship. 1-6 Hour.
Faculty-supervised opportunity for practical experience in tasks of international scope, may provide opportunities to use language(s) studied or applications of cultural knowledge.
WLL 350. Introduction to Romance Linguistics. 3 Hours.
This course provides an introduction to the grammar of Romance languages, with emphasis on French and Spanish. Students will learn about the phonology (sound system), morphology, and syntax of French and Spanish. The course content is presented in a contrastive way, and it is related to the historical background that led to the separation of Latin into the modern Romance languages.
Prerequisites: EH 102 [Min Grade: C] or EH 107 [Min Grade: C]
WLL 410. Undergraduate World Language Research. 1-6 Hour.
This is an individualized course of directed readings and research for World Language students. Course design is determined by the instructor and student and will be tailored to a specific research project. The goal of the course is to increase knowledge of research design and practices in the foreign language discipline. Permission of the Department Chair.
WLL 485. World Language Capstone Seminar. 3 Hours.
Advanced seminar on broad cultural and cross-cultural topics in world languages, literatures, and critical theory. Students must complete a Capstone project including substantial Writing assessments with a strong emphasis on Ethics and Civic Responsibility, where they apply cultural literacy in a critical and reasoned manner toward understanding contemporary and/or past world cultures. Selected courses may also include a Quantitative Literacy component. Taught in English, readings assignments in English and/or world languages. Senior standing, WLL 120 or WLL 121 and at least 6 semester hours at the 300 level of student's target language track.
Prerequisites: WLL 120 [Min Grade: C] or WLL 121 [Min Grade: C]
Faculty
Anderson de la Torre, M. Antonia,, Assistant Professor of Spanish,, 2019,, B.A. (Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia), M.A. (CEU San Pablo, Madrid, Spain), Ph.D. (Nebraska) |
Arribas, Julian, Professor and Chair, 2015, BS (Universidad Pontificia - Spain), ABD (Universidad de Salamanca), M.A., Ph.D. (Michigan) |
Ashe, Jr., Timothy, Assistant Professor of Spanish & Linguistics, 2023, B.A. (Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), M.A. (DePaul), Ph.D. (Arizona State) |
Bruhn, Maury Young, Assistant Professor of French, 2023, B.A. (Seattle University), M.A., Ph.D. (North Carolina-Chapel Hill) |
Chambless, Krista, Associate Professor of Spanish, 2006, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. (Alabama) |
Cochran, John Brock, Instructor of Spanish, 2012, B.A. (Auburn), M.A. (North Carolina in Charlotte) |
Daniélou, Catherine F., Associate Professor of French; Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences, 1990, Licence-ès-Lettres, Maîtrise-ès-Lettres (Sorbonne), M.A., Ph.D. (Michigan State) |
Hara, Yoshiyuki, Assistant Professor of Japanese, 2022, B.A. (Soka), M.A. (Oregon), Ph.D. (Wisconsin-Madison) |
Ma, Ling, Instructor of Chinese, 2013, B.A. (Jinan University, China), B.S. (UAB), Chinese Language Training Program (Troy; Sun Yat-sen University, China) M.Ed., (UAB) |
Maddox, John, Associate Professor of Foreign Languages, 2014, B.A., B.S.Ed., M.A. (Georgia), Ph.D. (Vanderbilt ) |
Moore, John K., Professor of Spanish, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, 2003, B.A. (University of the South), M.A.T. (Middle Tennessee State), Ph.D. (North Carolina-Chapel Hill) |
O’Leary, Malinda Blair, Associate Professor of Spanish, 2005, B.A., M.Ed. (UAB), Ph.D. (Alabama) |
Rodriguez Tsouroukdissian, Carolina, Assistant Professor of Spanish, 2020, BA (Universidad Catolica Andres Bello, Caracas, Venezuela), MA, PhD (Vanderbilt ) |
Russo-Skinner, Giuliana, Instructor of Italian, 2015, B.A. (G. D'Annunzio U., Pescara, Italy), M.Ed. (UAB), M.A. (Ca’Foscari U., Venezia, Italy) |
Sánchez-López, Lourdes, Professor of Spanish; Director, Spanish for Specific Purposes Certificate Program, 2001, B.A. (Universidad de Granada), M.A. (Southern Mississippi), M.A., Ph.D. (Universidad de Jaén) |
Takamiya, Yumi, Assistant Professor of Japanese, 2015, B.A. (Bunkyo University, Japan), M.A. (Wisconsin-Madison), Ph.D. (Purdue ) |
Toth, Adam J., Visiting Assistant Professor of German, 2022, B.A. (California- Riverside), M.A., Ph.D. (Penn State- Main) |