Modern Languages

Associate Professors Cornelio, de Arana, Ko (Chair), Mizenko, Shuru; Assistant Professors Brossillon, Fadellin, Jones, McCarthy; Instructors Ballesteros, Davis, DeLuca, Laraki, Luttcher-Hoorfar, Mo, Steyaert, Sun, Tanaka Goda.

Modern Languages

The Modern Languages Department offers courses in Arabic, Chinese-Mandarin, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. Through language study, cultural exploration, and the analysis of cultural expressions—such as visual artifacts, cinema, and literature, among others—students develop essential communication skills in their target languages, critical thinking abilities, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of heterogenous global traditions, histories, and worldviews.

Our program emphasizes the value of intercultural dialogue, fosters a global mindset, and equips students with the tools to navigate cultural differences, empowering them to become active participants and insightful leaders in an interconnected world.

In addition to the languages listed above, the Department regularly offers a full curriculum in Arabic which can be taken to fulfill the language requirement, even though a major or minor is not offered in this language. Students who wish to satisfy the language requirement in a modern language will be placed in the appropriate language class based on background and the results of the Foreign Language Placement Test.

English for International Students

IDS-120 is meant to be taken by international students, including exchange students, during the first year at Ursinus, in order to introduce them to the academic culture of Ursinus College and to the society and culture of the United States and the Philadelphia region. For eligible non-native speakers of English, this course may fulfill the core requirement for language study, if approved by the chair of the Department of Modern Languages.

IDS-120. Introduction to American Culture for International Students

This course is to be taken during the first year at Ursinus by foreign students, including exchange students, in order to introduce them to the history, society and culture of the United States and the Philadelphia region. Assignments will provide practice in the structure and style of academic English, including oral and written communication. Limited to international students who are not native speakers of English. This course fulfills the core requirement in language for eligible students if approved by the chair of the Department of Modern Languages. Three hours per week plus one hour of additional work. Four semester hours.

ML-100, 110, 200 and 300. Modern Languages

Individualized or off-campus study of modern languages not offered at Ursinus College, such as Hebrew, Russian, Swahili, Hindi, American Sign Language (ASL) and others. Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor (when offered by Ursinus faculty), or permission of the department chair (when offered by non-Ursinus faculty). These courses may be repeated for credit. Four semester hours.

Note: These courses do not satisfy the College language requirement for graduation unless specifically authorized by the Modern Languages department chair in response to a student petition.

ARA-101. Elementary Arabic I 

An introduction to the Arabic language. This course will allow the student to master the Arabic alphabet and to learn elementary speaking, writing, and reading in Arabic. Four hours of instruction plus one hour of supervised work with the textbook’s DVD material. Four semester hours. (L.)

ARA-102. Elementary Arabic II 

Continuation of ARA-101. Emphasis on communication and cultural uses of the language. Four hours of instruction plus one hour of supervised work with the textbook’s DVD material. Four semester hours. (L.)

ARA-111. Advanced Elementary Arabic I 

In this second-year-level course, students will continue to develop their four language skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing), vocabulary, and grammar. This course is designed to enable students to communicate in Arabic in everyday situations and to present and interpret information using their inventory of Arabic vocabulary. Prerequisite: ARA-102 or placement by instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (L.)

ARA-112. Advanced Elementary Arabic II 

In this course, students will further improve their four language skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) with an emphasis on comprehension and speaking. Students will also continue to develop their knowledge and application of vocabulary and grammar. Prerequisite: ARA-111or placement by instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (L.)

ARA-220. Topics in Intermediate Arabic 

In this course, students will further advance their Arabic language skills in listening, speaking, writing as well as reading. In addition, students will improve their ability to communicate at an intermediate level by interpreting and presenting information in different tenses and contexts. Prerequisite: ARA-112 or equivalent, or permission of instructor. This course may be taken more than once for credit. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

ARA-320. Topics in Advanced Arabic 

This course introduces new vocabulary, develops students’ listening and oral skills, and expands their knowledge and understanding of the culture and history of the Arabic-speaking world. Prerequisite: two 200-level courses or permission of instructor. This course may be taken more than once for credit. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

ARA-335. Independent Study in Arabic 

Independent study of topics in Arabic linguistics, literature, society or culture. Offered upon request. Prerequisite: one 300-level course and permission of instructor. Two to four semester hours. (XLP, if 4 credits.)

Ursinus College offers a full, four-year curriculum in the Chinese language, along with courses on Chinese history, society, and culture. The Chinese language curriculum is designed to develop the five language skills: speaking, listening, reading, writing, and culture. Students of the Chinese language are encouraged to consider majoring or minoring in East Asian Studies and/or such departments as History and International Relations. Students may also pursue a student-initiated major that includes the study of Chinese. In all courses, students work with authentic materials and teaching assistants who are native speakers. Ursinus offers carefully selected study abroad opportunities for summer, semester, and full-year programs.

Requirements for Chinese Language Minor

A minor in Chinese consists of 20 semester hours, including CHN-211, 212, eight additional credits at the 300-level, and one of the following: HIST-152, 252, 254, 352, 354, 451W, or another non-language course on China as approved by the Modern Languages chair in consultation with Chinese-language faculty. 

Requirements for Chinese Studies Minor

A minor in Chinese Studies consists of 20 credits. Required of all minors are CHN-211, 212, and 335. The remaining credits can come from the following: HIST-152, 202, 252, 254, 352, 354, 451W or other China-related courses.

The Chinese language courses are designed to develop linguistic skills and an understanding of Chinese culture. The study of Chinese is recommended for students interested in majoring in East Asian Studies, International Relations, Business and Economics, and other disciplines. Students may also pursue a student-initiated major that includes the study of Chinese. In all courses, students work with computers, and authentic video, audio and written materials, as well as language assistants who are native speakers.

CHN-101. Elementary Chinese I

An introduction to the Chinese language. The course is designed to introduce the student to the basic rules of spoken and written Chinese while providing basic communicative skills. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

CHN-102. Elementary Chinese II

Continuation of CHN-101. The focus is placed on situation-sensitive language use and the systematic introduction of basic grammar and sentence patterns, along with continued study of characters. Prerequisite: CHN-101 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

CHN-111. Advanced Elementary Chinese I

Continued introduction of the fundamental structures of spoken and written Chinese. Development of interpersonal communication skills beyond the functional level. Prerequisite: CHN-102 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

CHN-112. Advanced Elementary Chinese II

Continuation of CHN-111. Development of more sophisticated structures and patterns, moving towards conversational fluency. Continued study of reading and writing. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

CHN-211. Intermediate Chinese I

Review of basic structures combined with further enhancement of oral and written communication skills. Continued expansion of knowledge of characters, plus development of ability to handle complicated situations. Prerequisite: CHN-112 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

CHN-212. Intermediate Chinese II

Continuation of CHN-211. Completion of study of fundamentals of Chinese language. Development of ability to read and discuss authentic texts, and to handle a wide range of conversational situations. Prerequisite: CHN-211 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

CHN-311. Advanced Chinese I

Study of complex linguistic structures in the context of the development of an analytical understanding of the Chinese language. Reading and viewing of advanced-level authentic materials in written and video texts, with an emphasis on a nuanced understanding and an ability to discuss and write about the texts in depth. Three hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Prerequisite: CHN-212 or equivalent. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

CHN-312. Advanced Chinese II

Continuation of CHN-311. Upon completion of this course, students should have developed the resources to handle most conversational situations or modern texts. Three class hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

CHN-328. Advanced Chinese Grammar

In-depth study of Chinese phonetics, morphology and syntax with special emphasis on the problems related to the teaching of the language. Prerequisite: CHN-312 or permission of the instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours.

CHN 335. Independent Study in Chinese

Individual study of topics in Chinese linguistics, literature, society or culture. Prerequisite: CHN-312 and permission of the instructor. Two to four semester hours. (XLP, if 4 credits.)

CHN-381. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 120 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: four courses in Chinese and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Three semester hours. (XLP.)

CHN-382. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 160 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: four courses in Chinese and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

CHN-491. Research/Independent Work

This course is open to candidates for departmental honors and to other students with the permission of the department chair. This course does not satisfy the College requirement of a capstone experience. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

CHN-492W. Research/Independent Work

A continuation of CHN-491. This is a writing intensive course and at least one formal oral presentation is required. This course satisfies the College requirement of a capstone experience. Prerequisites: CHN-491 and permission of the department chair. MCS-201 is strongly recommended. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

Requirements for Majors

French majors are required to take at least 36 credit hours in French and Francophone Studies courses above the 100 level. FREN-251 and 252 and at least one 400-level W course are required, as well as a study abroad experience as approved by the department. French majors can fulfill the requirement for an oral presentation in the major and the capstone requirement by taking FREN 440W or 492W.

Secondary School Certification:

Students planning to obtain certification for secondary-school teaching in French must take a minimum of 24 credit hours in French at the 200, 300 and 400 levels. The following courses are required: FREN-251; 252, 317, 328, and at least two 300- or 400-level courses. In addition to the course requirements, students are required to pass a qualifying examination before they will be admitted to candidacy for certification and a competency examination before being certified.

These tests will examine students’ linguistic competence, orally and in writing, testing phonetics, conversation, grammar and composition. The exit exam will also check their knowledge of French literature and culture, including the arts, history and geography. Students and their advisers should consult the Ursinus College Education Department. Language majors and students preparing for certification are required to supplement their work at Ursinus by spending a summer, a semester or an entire year in a foreign country with a program approved by the department. Exceptions to this policy may be made by petition to the department chair.

Requirements for Minors

A minor in French consists of 20 credits. Required of all minors are FREN-251 or FREN-252. The remaining credits can come from intermediate-level courses (FREN-111, 112), and any FREN courses at the 200-, 300-, or 400-levels.

FREN-101. Introduction to French Language and Francophone Cultures I

Development of the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Designed for beginners. Four hours per week plus plus one hour with interactive technologies or in teaching-assistant-led conversation. Four semester hours. (L.)

FREN-102. Introduction to French Language and Francophone Cultures II

Continuation of FREN-101. Four hours per week plus one hour of work with interactive technologies or in teaching-assistant-led conversation. Four semester hours. (L.)

FREN-103. Intensive Beginner Studies of French Language and Francophone Cultures

This course is intended for students who have previous experience in the language, but who lack the foundational knowledge for the intermediate level. It is designed to be an intensive review that covers the entire beginning sequence seen in FREN-101 and 102 in one semester. The course combines development of the four skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) with a grammar review. It is followed by FREN-111. Four hours per week plus one hour with interactive technologies or in teaching-assistant-led conversation. Four semester hours. (L.)

FREN-111. Intermediate Studies in French Language and Francophone Cultures I

Conversation and vocabulary development; grammar review, written work and discussions are based on cultural, social and literary selections. Prerequisite: FREN-102, FREN-103, or the equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour with interactive technologies or in teaching-assistant-led conversation. Four semester hours. (L.)

FREN-112. Intermediate Studies in French Language and Francophone Cultures II

Continued emphasis on comprehension and speaking. Reading of literary and cultural texts and longer writing assignments. Introduction to elementary Francophone literature. Prerequisite: FREN-111 or the equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour with interactive technologies or in teaching-assistant-led conversation. Four semester hours. (L.)

FREN-201. Communicating in French

How is the world shaped by the language we speak? To explore this question, students engage in conversations on a range of French and Francophone cultural themes, while developing their ability to understand authentic spoken French in its many varieties. Prerequisite: FREN-112 or the equivalent. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-202. Storytelling in French

How is the world shaped by written language? To explore this question, students practice formal, informal, and creative writing (short essays, short stories, poetry) while developing strategies for incorporating previously learned grammar into written and oral expression. Prerequisite: FREN-112 or the equivalent. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-251. Exploring Literature in French from the Middle Ages to the Present

How does literature help us understand the world? What role does literature have in our life together? To reflect on these questions, students read and analyze a selection of major literary works written in French from the Middle Ages to the present. Special attention will be given to the socio-cultural context from which the narratives emerged. Prerequisites: FREN-202 or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L, GN.)

FREN-252. Living Together in the Francophone World

What is the Francophone World? What does it mean to live in it? By examining the global interconnections created by a variety of French-language authors and filmmakers from around the globe, this course invites students to question how we should live together in a world haunted by past traumas such as French colonialism. Students consider the role of literature and cinema in everyday life together, reflecting on how language constructs identity and community. Prerequisite: FREN-202 or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, GN, L.)

FREN-255. Investigating French and Francophone Cultures

A thematically driven course in which students investigate how we should live together by analyzing the operation of privilege as it relates to diversity and inequality within the political, social, economic, and cultural history of France and the Francophone World from the Revolution of 1789 to the present day. Themes may include the Haitian Revolution, France during the World Wars, or a critical interrogation of the French motto: “liberté, égalité, fraternité.” FREN-202 or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

Note: This course will be offered in the spring term of even-numbered years and will alternate with FREN-252. All 300-level courses are offered in rotation.

FREN-317. Contemporary France and Francophone Europe

This course introduces students to the culture of France, Belgium and Switzerland through the study of a number of different printed and video “texts” to discuss major social, political, economic, and cultural forces that structure life in Francophone Europe today. Students draw on a variety of disciplines (history, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science) and their interrelations in order to acquire a certain familiarity with the nature of French, Belgian, and Swiss “identities” today and the forces that are challenging those identities. Topics addressed are politics, issues of immigration and education, and regionalism. Prerequisite: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-318. French for Professional Purposes

Students perform tasks related to their future professions: writing, presentations, CVs, resumes, cover letters, interviewing skills, cultural considerations, and career development. The final project is an oral presentation of a final paper in the student’s professional field. Prerequisite: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-328. Advanced Grammar and Translation

French phonetics, morphology and syntax, with emphasis on problems related to the teaching of the language. Frequent translations focus on structural differences between French and English. Prerequisite: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Offered upon request. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-335. Independent Study in French and Francophone Studies

Individual study of topics in French and Francophone literature, cinema, and culture. May also be used in preparation for research or internship abroad. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course and permission of instructor. Two to four semester hours. (L, XLP, if 4 credits.)

FREN-341. Seminar in French and Francophone Studies

This course is for students who wish to take the senior seminar taught in the same semester but are not yet seniors. Assignments for students of FREN-341 will correspond to the workload of a 300-level course. FREN-341 is offered concurrently with FREN-440W. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Does not fulfill the capstone requirement for the French major. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-342. Gender and Sexuality Studies in French

This course explores the literary representations of gender and sexuality in France from the nineteenth century to the present. Through the interdisciplinary study of literary works, the history of sexuality and feminist theory, this course addresses important questions on the politics of queer sexuality as well as gender dynamics and sexual identities in modern French culture. The aim of this course is to bridge literature in French with gender and sexuality studies. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-345. Topics in French and Francophone Studies

This course focuses on a specific topic or theme not otherwise treated in the curriculum. Topics will vary from year to year. Previous topics have included « Regard sur/des Autres dans la société française » and « Hidden Stories of World War II ». Independent written work is required. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course or the permission of the instructor. Three hours of class per week, and in some cases two-hour film screenings per week, depending on the topic. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-352. Transnational Francophone Studies

What borders does the French language transcend? What barriers does it create? Through a study of French and Francophone literature, cinema, and culture, this course questions the relationships between nation, location, language, and identity across borders and within contexts of immigration and exile. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, O, L.)

FREN-362. French and Francophone Thought

How does thinking in French help us understand the world? What does French-language thought contribute to our reflection on the core questions of the Ursinus quest? Beginning with these broad questions, this course invites students to reflect on philosophical and theoretical texts written in French. Students also more narrowly probe how French and Francophone thinkers have theorized our obligations to others. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-372. Masterpieces of French and Francophone Literature and Cinema

In this course, students develop their advanced analytical skills by closely studying texts and/or films from significant authors and filmmakers centered around a theme, movement, person, or region. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-381. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 120 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Three semester hours. (XLP.)

FREN-382. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 160 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: one 250-level French course and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

FREN-440W. Senior Seminar in French and Francophone Studies

In-depth examination of a theme in French and Francophone Studies that invites students to reflect on their quest through the French and Francophone Studies curriculum as well as their liberal arts education holistically. Focused attention will be given to the core question of “What will I do?” within the sphere of the chosen theme. This course satisfies the capstone requirement for the French major. Prerequisites: One 300-level French course and senior status or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week, and in some cases two-hour film screenings per week, depending on the topic. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

FREN-491. Research/Independent Work

This course is open to candidates for departmental honors and to other students with the permission of the department chair. Prerequisites: one 300-level French course. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

FREN-492W. Research/Independent Work

A continuation of FREN-491. This is a writing-intensive course and at least one formal oral presentation is required. This course satisfies the capstone requirement for the French major. Prerequisites: FREN-491 and permission of the department chair. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

Requirements for Majors

German majors are required to take a minimum of 36 credit hours in German beyond the 100 level. GER-251, 252 and at least one 400-level W course are required, as well as a study abroad experience as approved by the department. German majors can fulfill the requirement for an oral presentation in the major and the capstone requirement by taking GER-440W or 492W.

Secondary School Certification

Students planning to obtain certification for secondary-school teaching in German must take a minimum of 24 credit hours in German at the 200, 300 and 400 levels. The following courses are required: GER-251 and 252; 313 or 314; 328 and at least two 300- or 400-level courses. In addition to the course requirements, students are required to pass a qualifying examination before they will be admitted to candidacy for certification and a competency examination before being certified.

These tests will examine students’ linguistic competence, orally and in writing, testing phonetics, conversation, grammar and composition. The exit exam will also check their knowledge of German literature and culture, including the arts, history and geography. Students and their advisers should consult the Ursinus College Education Department. Language majors and students preparing for certification are required to supplement their work at Ursinus by spending a summer, a semester or an entire year in an academic program in a German-speaking country approved by the department.

Requirements for Minors

German Minor

A minor in German consists of 20 credits. Required of all minors are GER-251 or GER-252. The remaining credits can come from intermediate-level courses (GER-111, 112), and any GER courses at the 200-, 300-, or 400-levels.

German Studies Minor

A minor concentration in German Studies consists of six courses, two of which must be taken in the History department and two in the German Section of Modern Languages, including GER-252. Two additional courses, one in German, one in History or an independent study project addressing a topic either in History or German, may be taken through any Ursinus approved study- abroad program. Students may choose from among the following courses at Ursinus: HIST/GWSS-102, GER-201, 202, 251, 252, 314, 315.

GER-101. Elementary German I 

Development of the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Designed for beginners or students with little or no recent study of the language. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (L.)

GER-102. Elementary German II 

Continuation of GER-101. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (L.)

GER-111. Intermediate German I 

A review of basic grammar concepts and development of listening and communication skills. Texts of social and cultural interest provide the focus for class discussion and writing exercises. Prerequisite: GER-102 or equivalent. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (L.)

GER-112. Intermediate German II 

A continuation of GER-111. A review of selected advanced grammar concepts and further development of listening and communication skills. Prerequisite: GER-111 or equivalent. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (L)

GER-201. Conversation and Composition I 

Intensive review of grammar to perfect oral and written communication. Literary texts, newspaper articles, and German films will be discussed. Course includes formal and informal writing exercises and student presentations. Prerequisite: GER-112 or equivalent. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-202. Conversation and Composition II 

Intensive review of grammar to perfect oral and written communication. Course includes formal and informal writing exercises and student presentations. Prerequisite: GER-201 or permission of instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-251. Introduction to German Literature 

A survey of the works of major German writers from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Special emphasis will be given to the socio-cultural context in which their writing is embedded. Students will also be introduced to literary analysis and formal writing. Prerequisite: GER-202 or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-252. German Literature and Film 

The works of 18th, 19th, and 20th-century authors will be discussed in the context of the times in which they were written. Students will analyze these works and familiarize themselves with the politics, art, and film of Germany. Prerequisite: GER-251 or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-313. German Studies in Literature 

Topics vary. Prerequisite: GER-251 and 252 or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-314. German Studies in Culture 

Topics vary. Topics include a study of German cinema, scientific German, and environmental German, among others. Texts will come from a variety of sources. Prerequisites: GER-251 and 252, or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-315. Germany Today 

A study of contemporary German politics, economics and society. Prerequisites: GER-251 and 252 or permission of the instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (SS.)

GER-318. Commercial and Economic German 

Study of contemporary economic issues and events in German-speaking countries. Prerequisites: GER-251 and 252; or permission of the instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-319. Twentieth-century German Short Story 

Readings in the twentieth-century German short story. Students will read, discuss and analyze stories by major German writers. Prerequisites: GER-251, 252, or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-320. German Novelle 

History and development of the German Novelle from Goethe to the 20th century. Prerequisites: GER-251, 252, or permission of instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-328. Advanced German Grammar 

In-depth study of German phonetics, morphology and syntax with special emphasis on the problems related to the teaching of the language. Prerequisites: GER-201, 202 or permission of instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-335. Independent Study in German 

Individual study of topics in German literature and civilization. Prerequisites: GER-251 and 252; or permission of instructor. Two to four semester hours. (H, L, XLP, if 4 credits.)

GER-340. Das deutsche Märchen 

A study of the German Fairy Tale from the Brothers Grimm through the 20th century. Oral antecedents, the literary fairy tale, and satirical fairy tales will be treated. Prerequisite: GER-251 and 252. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

Note: 300- and 400-level courses are offered in rotation.

GER-381. Internship 

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 120 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: three courses in German and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Three semester hours. (XLP.)

GER-382. Internship 

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 160 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: three courses in German and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

GER-440W. Advanced Seminar

Topics vary. This course satisfies the College requirement of a capstone experience. Prerequisites: GER-251, 252, and three 300 level courses; or permission of instructor. MCS-102 is strongly recommended. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

GER-491. Research/Independent Work 

This course is open to candidates for departmental honors and to other students with the permission of the department chair. This course does not satisfy the College requirement of a capstone experience. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

GER-492W. Research/Independent Work 

A continuation of GER-491. This is a writing-intensive course and at least one formal oral presentation is required. This course satisfies the College requirement of a capstone experience. Prerequisites: GER-491 and permission of the department chair. MCS-102 is strongly recommended. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

Ursinus College offers a full four-year curriculum in the Japanese language, along with courses on Japanese history, society, and culture. The Japanese language curriculum is designed to develop the five language skills—speaking, listening, reading, writing, and culture. Students of the Japanese language are encouraged to consider majoring or minoring in East Asian Studies and/or such departments as History and International Relations. Students may also pursue a student-initiated major that includes the study of Japanese. In all courses, students work with authentic materials and teaching assistants who are native speakers. Ursinus offers carefully selected study abroad opportunities for summer, semester, and full-year programs, and is one of three institutions in Pennsylvania to offer a teacher certification program in Japanese.

Requirements for Minors

A minor in Japanese consists of 20 semester hours, including JPN-211, 212, eight additional credits at the 300-level, and one of the following: EAS-224, 299 (when topic is on Japan), 314; HIST-151, 254, 352, 354, or another non-language course on Japan as approved by the Modern Languages chair in consultation with Japanese-language faculty.

Secondary School Certification

Students planning to obtain certification for secondary-school teaching in Japanese are required to take the following courses: JPN-211, 212, 301, 328; ENGL-224; HIST-151 or POL-346; and EAS-299, 314, or 401. In addition to the course requirements, students are required to pass a qualifying examination before they will be admitted to candidacy for certification and a competency examination before being certified.

These tests will examine students’ linguistic competence, orally and in writing, testing phonetics, conversation, grammar and composition. The exit exam will also check their knowledge of Japanese literature and culture, including the arts, history and geography. Students and their advisers should consult the Ursinus College Education Department. Language majors and students preparing for certification are required to supplement their work at Ursinus by spending a summer, a semester or an entire year in a foreign country with a program approved by the department. Exceptions to this policy may be made by petition to the department chair.

JPN-101. Elementary Japanese I

An introduction to the Japanese language. The course is designed to introduce the student to the basic rules of spoken and written Japanese while providing basic communicative skills. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

JPN-102. Elementary Japanese II

Continuation of JPN-101. The focus is placed on situation-sensitive language use and the systematic introduction of basic grammar and sentence patterns. Basic kanji characters are introduced. Prerequisite: JPN-101 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

JPN-111. Advanced Elementary Japanese I

Continued introduction of the fundamental structures of spoken and written Japanese. Development of interpersonal communication skills beyond the functional level. Prerequisite: JPN-102 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

JPN-112. Advanced Elementary Japanese II

Continuation of JPN-111. Development of more sophisticated structures and patterns, moving towards conversational fluency. Continued study of reading and writing, with knowledge of 200-300 kanji characters by end of course. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (L.)

JPN-211. Intermediate Japanese I

Review of basic structures combined with further enhancement of oral and written communication skills. Continued expansion of knowledge of kanji characters, plus development of ability to handle complicated situations. Prerequisite: JPN-112 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

JPN-212. Intermediate Japanese II

Continuation of JPN-211. Completion of study of fundamentals of Japanese language. Development of ability to read and discuss authentic texts, and to handle a wide range of conversational situations. Prerequisite: JPN-211 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

JPN-311. Advanced Japanese I

Study of complex linguistic structures in the context of the development of an analytical understanding of the Japanese language. Reading and viewing of advanced-level authentic materials in written and video texts, with an emphasis on a nuanced understanding and an ability to discuss and write about the texts in depth. Three hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Prerequisite: JPN-212 or equivalent. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

JPN-312. Advanced Japanese II

Continuation of JPN-311. Upon completion of this course, students should have developed the resources to handle virtually any conversational situation or modern text. Three class hours per week plus one hour of practice with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

JPN-328. Advanced Japanese Grammar

In-depth study of Japanese phonetics, morphology and syntax with special emphasis on the problems related to the teaching of the language. Prerequisite: JPN-312 or permission of the instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

JPN 335. Independent Study in Japanese

Individual study of topics in Japanese literature, society or culture. Prerequisite: JPN-312 and permission of the instructor. Two to four semester hours. (XLP, if 4 credits.)

JPN-381. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 120 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: Four courses in Japanese and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Three semester hours. (XLP.)

JPN-382. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 160 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: Four courses in Japanese and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

JPN-491. Research/Independent Work

This course is open to candidates for departmental honors and to other students with the permission of the department chair. This course does not satisfy the College requirement of a capstone experience. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

JPN-492W. Research/Independent Work

A continuation of JPN-491. This is a writing intensive course and at least one formal oral presentation is required. This course satisfies the College requirement of a capstone experience. Prerequisites: JPN-491 and permission of the department chair. MCS-102 is strongly recommended. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

Requirements for Majors

Spanish majors are required to take a minimum of 36 credit hours in Spanish at the 200-, 300- and 400-levels. Students may also take SPA-119 and/or SPAN-150 toward fulfilling the major requirements. SPAN-251, 252, and at least one 400-level W course are required, as well as a study abroad experience as approved by the department. Spanish majors can fulfill the requirement for an oral presentation in the major and the capstone requirement by taking SPAN-401W, 402W, 440W or 492W.

Secondary School Certification

Students planning to obtain certification for secondary-school teaching in Spanish must take a minimum of 24 credit hours in Spanish at the 200-, 300- and 400-levels. The following courses are required: SPAN-251, 252, 317, 328 and at least two 300- or 400-level courses. In addition to the course requirements, students are required to pass a qualifying examination before they will be admitted to candidacy for certification and a competency examination before being certified.

These tests will examine students’ linguistic competence, orally and in writing, testing phonetics, conversation, grammar and composition. The exit exam will also check their knowledge of Spanish literature and culture, including the arts, history and geography. Students and their advisers should consult the Ursinus College Education Department. Language majors and students preparing for certification are required to supplement their work at Ursinus by spending a summer, a semester or an entire year in a foreign country with a program approved by the department. Exceptions to this policy may be made by petition to the department chair.

Requirements for Minors

A minor in Spanish consists of 20 credits. Required of all minors are SPAN-251 or SPAN-252. The remaining credits can come from intermediate-level courses (SPAN-111, 112), SPAN courses for the professions (SPAN-119, 150), and any SPAN courses at the 200-, 300-, or 400-levels.

SPAN-100. Elementary Spanish I for Absolute Beginners

Development of the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Designed for beginners of the language with no prior study of the language. This course is normally followed by SPAN-102. Four hours per week plus one hour of work with interactive technologies. Four semester hours. (L.)

Note: Students who took SPAN-100 cannot take SPAN-101 and vice versa.

SPAN-101. Elementary Spanish I for High Beginners

Development of the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Designed for beginners of the language with prior study of the language. This course is normally followed by SPAN-102. Four hours per week plus one hour of work with interactive technologies. Four semester hours. (L.)

SPAN-102. Elementary Spanish II

Continuation of SPAN-100 or SPAN-101. Four hours per week plus one hour of work with interactive technologies. Four semester hours. (L.)

SPAN-111. Intermediate Spanish I

A review of the basic grammatical structures of Spanish, with emphasis on the use of tenses and the subjunctive mode, vocabulary development through readings and use of authentic materials, and cultural and elementary literary readings. Prerequisite: SPAN-102. Four hours per week plus one hour of work with interactive technologies. Four semester hours. (L.)

SPAN-112. Intermediate Spanish II

Although Intermediate Spanish II is a continuation of Intermediate Spanish I, students may be placed in this course if they can demonstrate a good command of the basic structures of the Spanish grammar. The main focus of this course will be in the strengthening of vocabulary and the written command of the language through the use of authentic materials, literary readings, and writing of short compositions. Prerequisite: SPAN-111 or equivalent. Four hours per week plus one hour of work with interactive technologies. Four semester hours. (L.).

SPAN-119. Spanish for Health Professions

This course is designed for students interested in the health professions. Students will acquire fundamental Spanish medical vocabulary, practical communication skills and the cultural competence necessary to engage with U.S. Hispanic and Latinx populations in various healthcare contexts. Prerequisite: SPAN-112 or the equivalent completed at the college level. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (DN, L, O.).

SPAN-150. Topics in Spanish for the Professions

The course explores topics in Spanish for the Professions, such as Spanish for Business, Spanish for Public Health, or Spanish for Social Justice and Advocacy. This course aims to help students acquire the Spanish vocabulary, communication skills, and cultural competence necessary in specific professional fields. Prerequisite: SPAN-112 or the equivalent completed at the college level. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (L.).

SPAN-201. Conversation and Composition I

Intensive review of the grammar to perfect oral and written communication. Materials used will be taken from a wide array of journalistic, literary, cinematic, and other forms of cultural expressions. Writing will be both formal and informal. Four hours per week plus one hour of conversation with the language assistant. Prerequisite: SPAN-112 or equivalent. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-202. Conversation and Composition II

Continuation of SPAN-201. Prerequisite: SPAN-201 or permission of the instructor. Four hours per week plus one hour of conversation with the language assistant. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-207. Spanish Civilization and Culture

A chronological introduction to Spanish history, culture and civilization from its beginnings to the present time. Recommended for students planning to study in Spain. May be taken in place of SPAN-202. Prerequisite: SPAN-201 or permission of the instructor. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-251. Survey of Hispanic Cultures

This course introduces students to the major historical events and cultural trends of the Hispanic world. Students will analyze a range of key cultural products—from chronicles to literary works, architecture and film—within their social and historical contexts. This course will prepare students with the historical and cultural knowledge necessary for the advanced study of Hispanic cultures. Prerequisite: SPAN-202 or equivalent. Three hours per weekFour semester hours. (GN, H, L.)

SPAN-252. Introduction to Hispanic Cultural Studies

This course introduces students to the major theoretical concepts and analytical tools necessary for the study of Hispanic cultural productions. Students will analyze Hispanic cultural products from a range of key analytical categories (e.g. race, nation, mass culture) and examine some major developments in the Hispanic world (e.g. migration, globalization, neoliberalism). This course will prepare students with the theoretical and analytical tools necessary for the advanced study of Hispanic cultures. Prerequisite: SPAN-202 or equivalent. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (GN, H, L.)

Note: 300- and 400-level courses are offered in rotation.

SPAN-308. Culture and Medicine

This course is designed for students interested in medicine or allied health fields. Students will use Spanish by engaging in specialized vocabulary and a variety of cultural and technical texts. The content of the course will emphasize traditional medical and non-traditional healing practices. Prerequisite: SPAN-119 or SPAN-201 or the equivalent. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-317. The Hispanic World

The development of the Hispanic Culture as a conjunction of Eastern and Western experiences and its subsequent expansion and transformation in the Americas. The creation of the American republics, the political and socio-economic crisis of the 20th century and the challenges of the future. Prerequisite: Two of the following: SPAN-201, 202, 251, 252 or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (GN, H, L.)

SPAN-328. Advanced Spanish Grammar

In-depth study of the main grammatical aspects of the Spanish language with an emphasis on the verb system and syntax. Prerequisite: SPAN-201 or equivalent. Four hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-335. Independent Study in Spanish

Individual study of topics in Spanish or Latin American literature or culture. Prerequisites: two 200-level courses and permission of the instructor. Two to four semester hours. (H, L, XLP, if 4 credits.)

SPAN-340. Topics in Hispanic Studies

The course explores topics in linguistics, literary, and cultural studies in the Hispanic world. Recent topics have included “Love, Sex and Marriage in Nineteenth-century Spanish Literature” and “Performance and Literature.” Prerequisite: SPAN-251 or 252, or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week, and in some cases two-hour film screenings per week, depending on the topic. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-350. Spanish-English Translation

Practical introduction to translation from Spanish to English of literary, medical, cultural and consumer-oriented texts. It will have an individual final project consisting of the translation of a complete text —such as a research article, a short story, a video clip, etc.—of interest for the student. Prerequisites: SPAN-328, or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-352. Contemporary Hispanic Novel

Close readings of texts from a variety of perspectives (including gender, race, class), representing major trends in contemporary fiction (Spain and Latin America). Prerequisite: SPAN-251, 252, or permission of the instructor. Three hours per week. Four semester hours. (GN, H, L.)

SPAN-381. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 120 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: three courses in Spanish and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Three semester hours. (XLP.)

SPAN-382. Internship

An academic work/experience under the supervision of an internship adviser and an on-site supervisor. Students must document their experience according to the requirements delineated in the College catalogue section on Internships. Contact the chair of the department for further details. Open to juniors and seniors. The term during which the internship work is performed will be noted by one of the following letters, to be added immediately after the internship course number: A (fall), B (winter), C (spring), or D (summer). Internships undertaken abroad will be so indicated by the letter I. The intern must complete a minimum of 160 hours of work. Graded S/U. Prerequisites: three courses in Spanish and approval of a faculty internship adviser. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

SPAN-440W. Senior Seminar in Hispanic Studies

This course satisfies the College requirement for a capstone experience. It will explore topics in linguistic, literary, and cultural studies in the Hispanic world. Prerequisites: SPAN-251, 252 and senior status or permission of the instructor. MCS-102 is highly recommended. Three hours per week, and in some cases two-hour film screenings per week, depending on the topic. Four semester hours. (H, L.)

SPAN-491. Research/Independent Work

This course is open to candidates for departmental honors and to other students with the permission of the department chair. This course does not satisfy the College requirement of a capstone experience. Four semester hours. (XLP.)

SPAN-492W. Research/Independent Work

A continuation of SPAN-491. This is a writing-intensive course and at least one formal oral presentation is required. This course satisfies the College requirement of a capstone experience. Prerequisites: SPAN-491 and permission of the department chair. MCS-102 is highly recommended. Four semester hours. (XLP.)