Department website: http://krieger.jhu.edu/cle
The Center for Language Education (CLE) was established in 1992 and presently offers foreign-language courses in Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Sanskrit, and Amazigh.
The CLE also offers American Sign Language (ASL). For international graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, International Teaching Assistants (ITAs), and other Johns Hopkins affiliates, the CLE provides advanced English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, workshops for International Teaching Assistants, and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) classes focused on communication in academic contexts.
Grading and Course Progression for Languages Offered by the Center for Language Education
CLE language classes may be taken satisfactory/unsatisfactory only at the intermediate level and above. A student earning below C+ in a course is not eligible to pass to the next higher level course. Students are granted credit for each semester course successfully completed, regardless of enrollment or performance in a subsequent course.
For current course information and registration go to https://sis.jhu.edu/classes/
Courses
AS.370.115. First Year American Sign Language. 3 Credits.
Designed for students who have no previous knowledge of ASL. Students will learn fingerspelling, words, facial expressions, and classifiers to be able to communicate at a basic level with other signers. The curriculum will cover sentence structures such as questions, commands, and other conversational phrases. Mastery will include knowledge of Deaf community and Deaf cultural practices.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.370.116. First Year American Sign Language II. 3 Credits.
This course is a continuation of AS.370.115. Students will improve their knowledge of fingerspelling, words, facial expressions, and classifiers to be able to communicate at a basic level with other signers. Curriculum focus will continue to build on sentence structures such as questions, commands, and other conversational phrases. Mastery will include knowledge of Deaf community and Deaf cultural practices.
Prerequisite(s): AS.370.115
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.370.215. Second Year American Sign Language. 3 Credits.
In second year ASL, students will build on their base knowledge of ASL by continuing to learn new vocabulary and grammar patterns. Students will deepen their understanding of ASL by practicing long-form conversations, telling stories about their life, and discussing deaf culture. The class will also investigate and analyze Deaf culture phenomena by connecting with Deaf people, reading books written by Deaf community members, and examining the Deaf online presence.
Prerequisite(s): AS.370.116 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.370.216. Second Year American Sign Language II. 3 Credits.
This course is a continuation of AS.370.215 which builds on base knowledge and understanding of ASL.
Prerequisite(s): AS.370.215
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.370.315. Third Year American Sign Language. 3 Credits.
This third-year ASL course builds on previous study to refine fluency, expand vocabulary, and enhance expressive and receptive skills.
Prerequisite(s): AS.370.216 or Instructor permission.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.370.316. Third Year American Sign Language II. 3 Credits.
This is a continuation of Third Year American Sign Language and builds on previous study to refine fluency, expand vocabulary, and enhance expressive and receptive skills.
Prerequisite(s): AS.370.315
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.370.602. American English Pronunciation. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on improving students' perception and pronunciation of American English through learning articulation, phonetics, and phonology. Students learn the basics of anatomy of speech production in order to understand how difficult sounds and sound contrasts are made. Students also learn the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to help them distinguish sound contrasts that are difficult depending on the individual students' native languages. Moving beyond individual sounds, students learn how sounds change depending on what word or phrase they appear in and when they appear in fast or colloquial speech. Finally, students learn and practice intonation appropriate for various types of statements and questions.
AS.370.603. Public Speaking in Academia. 3 Credits.
This course is intended for international Teaching Assistants (ITAs) with advanced English skills and satisfactory pronunciation who wish to further improve their communication and public speaking skills, as well as better understand the cultural norms of the American academia. Students refine their pronunciation and intonation, practice designing and giving presentations, learn the basics of conversation and e-mail etiquette in America, as well as the norms of interacting with college students, professors, and colleagues in various academic situations such as classes, office hours, lab meetings, and scientific meetings. This course is appropriate as a follow-up to American English Pronunciation (AS 370.602) or as a stand-alone course for students with satisfactory pronunciation. This course can also be repeated for additional practice or taken concurrently with American English Pronunciation.
AS.370.606. Effective Communication in Academic English. 3 Credits.
This course is designed to help you master English for academic research. You'll learn the vocabulary, phrases, and appropriate academic register needed to communicate effectively in university settings. We'll explore the language and style used in English publications and conferences, plus important cultural differences. We'll work together through speaking and writing exercises based on your own research topics and research. The course covers writing abstracts, preparing for academic conferences, and communicating your research to both experts and general audiences. You'll have opportunities to try out your presentations and practice essential skills like engaging in discussions, asking and answering questions during talks, introducing yourself professionally, crafting your CV, and communicating via email. Throughout the course, you'll develop key language skills including hedging language, signposting techniques, and creating compelling openings for your talks and writing. Designed for non-native English speakers with advanced proficiency, this course will help build the confidence and competence to communicate clearly and effectively in English-speaking academic environments.
Writing Intensive
AS.373.111. First Year Heritage Chinese. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for students who were raised in an environment in which Chinese is spoken by parents or guardians at home and for those who are familiar with the language and possess native-like abilities in comprehension and speaking. The course therefore focuses on reading and writing (including the correct use of grammar). Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.112. First Year Heritage Chinese II. 3 Credits.
For students who have significant previously-acquired ability to understand and speak Modern Standard Chinese. Course focuses on reading and writing. Teaching materials are the same as used in AS.373.115-116; however, both traditional and simplified versions of written Chinese characters are used. Lab required. Continuation of AS.373.111. Recommended Course Background: AS.373.111 or permission required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.111 or or instructor permission
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.115. First Year Chinese. 5 Credits.
This course is designed primarily for students who have no prior exposure to Chinese. The objective of the course is to help students build a solid foundation of the four basic skills---listening, speaking, reading, and writing in an interactive and communicative learning environment. The emphasis is on correct pronunciation, accurate tones and mastery of basic grammatical structures. Note: Students with existing demonstrable skills in spoken Chinese should take AS.373.111-112. No Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory. Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.116. First Year Chinese II. 5 Credits.
Introductory course in Modern Standard Chinese. Goals: mastery of elements of pronunciation and control of basic vocabulary of 800-900 words and most basic grammatical patterns. Students work first with Pin-Yin system, then with simplified version of written Chinese characters. Continuation of AS.373.115. Note: Student with existing demonstrable skills in spoken Chinese should take AS.373.111-112. Recommended Course Background: AS.373.115 or permission required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.115 or instructor permission]
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.211. Second Year Heritage Chinese. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for students who finished AS.373.112 with C+ and above (or equivalent). Students in this course possess native-like abilities in comprehension and speaking. The course focuses on reading and writing. Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.112 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.212. Second Year Heritage Chinese II. 3 Credits.
For students who have significant previously-acquired ability to understand and speak Modern Standard Chinese. Course focuses on reading and writing. Teaching materials are the same as used in AS.373.115-116; however, both traditional and simplified versions of written Chinese characters are used. Continuation of AS.373.211. Recommended Course Background: AS.373.211 or permission required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.211 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.215. Second Year Chinese. 5 Credits.
Consolidation of the foundation that students have laid in their first year of study and continued drill and practice in the spoken language, with continued expansion of reading and writing vocabulary and sentence patterns. Students will work with both simplified and traditional characters. Note: Students who have native-like abilities in comprehension and speaking should take AS.373.211-212. Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.116 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.216. Second Year Chinese II. 5 Credits.
Consolidation of the foundation that students have laid in their first year of study and continued drill and practice in the spoken language, with continued expansion of reading and writing vocabulary and sentence patterns. Students will work with both simplified and traditional characters. Note: Students who have native-like abilities in comprehension and speaking should take AS.373.211-212. Recommended Course Background: AS.373.215 or Permission Required.Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.215 or instructor permission.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.313. Third Year Heritage Chinese. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for those who have already taken AS.373.212 or equivalent. Students need to have native-level fluency in speaking and understanding Chinese. The course focuses on reading and writing. In addition to the textbooks, downloaded articles on current affairs may also be introduced on a regular basis.Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.212 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.373.314. Third Year Heritage Chinese II. 3 Credits.
This course is a continuation of AS.373.313. Students need to have native-level fluency in speaking and understanding Chinese. The course focuses on reading and writing. In addition to the textbooks, downloaded articles on current affairs may also be included on a regular basis. Recommended Course Background: AS.373.313 or Permission Required. Lab required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.313 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.373.315. Third Year Chinese. 3 Credits.
This two-semester course consolidates and further expands students' knowledge of grammar and vocabulary and further develops reading ability through work with textbook material and selected modern essays and short stories. Class discussions will be in Chinese insofar as feasible and written assignments will be given. Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.216 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.316. Third Year Chinese II. 3 Credits.
This two-semester course consolidates and further expands students' knowledge of grammar and vocabulary and further develops reading ability through work with textbook material and selected modern essays and short stories. Class discussions will be in Chinese insofar as feasible, and written assignments will be given. Continuation of AS.373.315. Recommended Course Background: AS.373.315 or permission required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.315 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.373.415. Fourth Year Chinese. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for students who finished AS.373.316 with a C+ or above (or equivalent). Readings in modern Chinese prose, including outstanding examples of literature, newspaper articles, etc. Students are supposed to be able to understand most of the readings with the aid of a dictionary, so that class discussion is not focused primarily on detailed explanation of grammar. Discussion, to be conducted in Chinese, will concentrate on the cultural significance of the readings' content.Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.316 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.373.416. Fourth Year Chinese II. 3 Credits.
Continuation of AS.373.415. Readings in modern Chinese prose, including outstanding examples of literature, newspaper articles, etc. Students should understand most of the readings with the aid of a dictionary, so that class discussion need not focus primarily on detailed explanations of grammar. Discussion, to be conducted in Chinese, will concentrate on the cultural significance of the readings' content. Recommended Course Background: AS.373.415 or Permission Required. Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.415 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.373.491. 5th Year Chinese. 3 Credits.
Fifth Year Chinese is designed for students who finished fourth year regular or third year heritage Chinese course at JHU or its equivalent and wish to achieve a higher advanced proficiency level in Chinese. The goal of the course is to help students further develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills cohesively and to enhance students’ understanding of Chinese culture and society through language learning.
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.416 OR AS.373.314 or Instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.373.492. Fifth Year Chinese II. 3 Credits.
Fifth Year Chinese is designed for students who finished fourth year regular or third year heritage Chinese course at JHU or its equivalent and wish to achieve a higher advanced proficiency level in Chinese. The goal of the course is to help students further develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills cohesively and to enhance students’ understanding of Chinese culture and society through language learning.
Prerequisite(s): AS.373.491 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.373.501. Independent Study - Chinese. 1 Credit.
Advanced Chinese independent course work.
Prerequisite(s): You must request Customized Academic Learning using the Customized Academic Learning form found in Student Self-Service: Registration > Online Forms.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4),
Projects and Methods (FA6)
AS.375.115. First Year Arabic. 5 Credits.
Introductory course in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Modern Standard Arabic. Presents basic grammatical structures and a basic vocabulary. Through oral-aural drill in classroom, tapes in Language Laboratory, and reading/writing exercises, students attain a basic level of competence on which they can build in subsequent years of studyNo Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.375.116. First Year Arabic II. 5 Credits.
Continuation of AS.375.115. Introductory course in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Modern Standard Arabic. Presents basic grammatical structures and a basic vocabulary. Through oral-aural drill in classroom, tapes in Language Laboratory, and reading/writing exercises, students attain a basic level of competence on which they can build in subsequent years of study. May not be taken Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.115 or instructor permission
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.375.211. Introduction to Levantine Arabic. 2 Credits.
This is an introduction course to Levantine Arabic (‘lahjah shamiyyah’). The course aims to develop communicative skills in a wide range of contexts so as to enable students to interact effectively in areas where Levantine Arabic is spoken. The course exposes students to commonly-used Arabic phrases and sentence structures, thereby gaining familiarity with the less formal Arabic register of Levantine.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.116
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.375.212. Introduction to Levantine Arabic II. 2 Credits.
This is a continuation course of AS.375.211 which continues to build on communicative skills to enable students to interact effectively in areas where Levantine Arabic is spoken.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.211
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.375.215. Second Year Arabic. 4 Credits.
Designed to bring students up to competency level required for third/fourth year Arabic. Students will consolidate and expand their mastery of the four basic skills acquired in AS.375.115-116. More authentic material--written, audio, and visual--will be used, and culture will be further expanded on as a fifth skill. Recommended Course Background: AS.375.115-116 or equivalent.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.116 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.375.216. Second Year Arabic II. 4 Credits.
Continuation of AS.375.215. Designed to bring students up to competency level required for third/fourth year Arabic. Students will consolidate and expand their mastery of the four basic skills acquired in AS.375.115-116. More authentic material--written, audio, and visual--will be used, and culture will be further expanded on as a fifth skill. Recommended Course Background: AS.375.215 or permission required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.215 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.375.301. Third Year Arabic. 3 Credits.
Designed to enhance students' ability to read, discuss, and write about various topics covered in traditional and contemporary Arabic texts. Recommended Course Background: AS.375.216 or equivalent.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.216 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.375.302. Third Year Arabic II. 3 Credits.
Designed to enhance students’ ability to read, discuss, and write about various topics covered in traditional and contemporary Arabic texts. Continuation of AS.375.301. Recommended Course Background: AS.375.301or permission required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.301 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.375.401. Fourth Year Arabic. 2 Credits.
This is an introductory course to different periods of the Arabic literature. Selections of famous Arabic poetry and short prose works are the substance of the course.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.302 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.375.402. Fourth Year Arabic II. 2 Credits.
This is an introductory course to different periods of the Arabic literature. Selections of famous Arabic poetry and short prose works are the substance of the course. Continuation of AS.375.401. Recommended Course Background: AS.375.302 or equivalent.
Prerequisite(s): AS.375.401 or equivalent.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.375.502. Independent Study-Arabic. 1 - 3 Credits.
Advanced independent study work in Arabic language and culture.
Prerequisite(s): You must request Independent Academic Work using the Independent Academic Work form found in Student Self-Service: Registration, Online Forms.
AS.377.115. First Year Russian. 4 Credits.
This course is designed for students who have no background in the language and wish to learn the language at an academic level, obtaining knowledge of the linguistic aspects of the language as well as skills needed to communicate in Russian. The goal of the course is the simultaneous progression of four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) as well as familiarity with aspects of Russian linguistics and culture that are necessary for language competency in survival level. It is expected that, by the end of the spring term, students will have basic speaking and listening comprehension skills, a solid grasp of basic grammar, reading and writing skills. No Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.377.116. First Year Russian II. 4 Credits.
A continuation of AS.377.115. This course is designed for students who have no background in the language and wish to learn the language at an academic level, obtaining knowledge of the linguistic aspects of the language as well as skills needed to communicate in Russian. The goal of the course is the simultaneous progression of four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) as well as familiarity with aspects of Russian linguistics and culture that are necessary for language competency in survival level. It is expected that, by the end of the spring term, students will have basic speaking and listening comprehension skills, a solid grasp of basic grammar, reading and writing skills. No Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
Prerequisite(s): AS.377.115
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.377.215. Second Year Russian. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for students who have finished AS.377.116 with C+ or above, or by a placement exam. The goal of the course is the simultaneous progression of four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) as well as familiarity with aspects of Russian linguistics and culture that are necessary for language competency higher than that learned in First Year Russian.
Prerequisite(s): AS.377.116 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.377.216. Second Year Russian II. 3 Credits.
Continuation of AS.377.215. The goal of the course is the simultaneous progression of four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) as well as familiarity with aspects of Russian linguistics and culture that are necessary for language competency higher than that learned in First Year Russian.
Prerequisite(s): AS.377.215
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.377.254. 19th Century Russian Literature: German Idealism and Russian Realism. 3 Credits.
This course introduces students to some of the classics as well as lesser-known masterpieces of 19th century Russian literature, beginning with Russian Romanticism in relation to European literary movements such as French Sentimentalism, British Romanticism, and German Idealism, and ending with Russian Realism. We will study Alexander Pushkin’s novel in verse Eugene Onegin (1833), his short story “The Queen of Spades” (1834), Mikhail Lermontov’s novel A Hero of Our Time (1840), and Ivan Turgenev’s novella Faust (1856). We will devote the second part of the course to close readings and cultural as well as philosophical interpretation of works by Fyodor Dostoevsky and Leo Tolstoy: Dostoevsky’s earlier unfinished bildungsroman Netochka Nezvanova (1849), Tolstoy’s early trilogy Childhood, Adolescence, Youth (1857) as well as the first novel Dostoevsky wrote after his mock execution and Siberian exile, namely Notes from the House of the Dead (1862), which pairs well with Tolstoy’s later works “The Kreutzer Sonata” (1889) and Father Sergius (1898) in dealing with topics like isolation, violence against women, and struggles of self-realization . The course examines Russian modernity and national identity vis-a`-vis Europe and explores the following key questions: the Russian novel’s evolution, its role in 19th-century politics, society, and Russian writers’ engagement with European literature as well as thinkers like Kant, Hegel, and Schopenhauer. By the end, students will have a foundational understanding of 19th-century Russian literature’s history, philosophy, and cultural legacy and will have developed critical reading and writing skills. No prerequisites; knowledge of Russian is not required.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.377.264. 'Disciplines Without Borders’ and Multidisciplinarity in Literature, Art, and Science. 3 Credits.
This introductory course ‘Disciplines Without Borders:’ Multidisciplinarity in Literature, Art, and Sciences will explore the intersections between literary texts, scientific discoveries, and art. We will study Geometry, Calculus, Probability Theory, Philosophy, Cognitive Science, Physics, Medicine, and Ecology in Russian Literature. We will read novels, poems, and plays by Goethe, Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, Chekhov, Akhmatova, and Nabokov, among others, with relevant chapters from Hegel, Literature, and the Problem of Agency by Allen Speight; The Mathematical Mind of F. M. Dostoevsky: Imaginary Numbers, Non-Euclidean Geometry, and Infinity by Michael Marsh-Soloway; Russian Literature and Cognitive Science edited by Tom Dolack, “which applies the newest insights from cognitive psychology to the study of Russian literature;” Medical Storyworlds: Health, Illness, and Bodies in Russian and European Literature at the Turn of the Twentieth Century by Elena Fratto; Jeff Love’s studies on Tolstoy’s use of calculus for the development of his philosophy of history, “Tolstoy’s Integration Metaphor from War and Peace” by Stephen T. Ahearn as well as other scientific studies that engage with literature such as Yuriy Mann’s Mathematics as Metaphor, Sarah Hart’s Once Upon a Prime: The Wondrous Connections Between Mathematics and Literature, and Carlo Rovelli’s Seven Brief Lessons in Physics. In addition to the reading materials, assignments will include expository writings as well as philosophical games and illustrations of the connections between science and art, mind and matter. We will also have guest lecturers from the departments of philosophy, mathematics, and cognitive science as we consider philosophy as science and science as art and explore multidisciplinarity and the many ways in which sciences can transform our understanding of art and literature and vice versa. No prerequisites either in humanities or sciences.
Distribution Area: Humanities, Quantitative and Mathematical Sciences
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Science and Data (FA2),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3)
AS.377.274. Philosophy of History and Science in Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace. 3 Credits.
This course is a study of philosophy of history and science primarily through a reading of Leo Tolstoy’s works and his epic War and Peace (1863-69). Over seven years, Tolstoy wrote a massive work that he refused to call a novel—but what was it? War and philosophy are more vital to it than peace or love stories. We entertain the idea that Tolstoy's radical ideas on narrative have a counterpart in his radical ideas on history, causation, freedom and necessity, catastrophe, commitment, and the formation of a moral self. To frame War and Peace and our discussions of philosophy, we will read Jeff Love’s studies on Tolstoy’s use of calculus for the development of his philosophy of history, “Tolstoy’s Integration Metaphor from War and Peace” by Stephen T. Ahearn as well as excerpts from philosophers like Plato, Kant, and Hegel that Tolstoy addresses in his writings. We will also study shorter works by Tolstoy, fictional and non-fictional, written before and after War and Peace, which attempt to answer huge questions with succinct definitions free of irony or reservation: What is war? courage? human experience? family? love? art? faith? death? freedom? Before War and Peace, Tolstoy poses these questions covertly and searchingly. After 1880 he answers them overtly and categorically—so much so that no authoritative text was safe. In this context, we will also read Tolstoy’s philosophical works Confession (1882), On Life (1888), and Isaiah Berlin’s The Hedgehog and the Fox: An Essay on Tolstoy's View of History.
Distribution Area: Humanities, Quantitative and Mathematical Sciences
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Science and Data (FA2),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3)
AS.377.315. Third Year Russian. 3 Credits.
This course offers advanced training in spoken as well as written Russian. It is designed for students who have basic Russian language proficiency acquired through AS.377.216 or equivalent. Advanced level of grammatical structures will be learned and practiced through communicative tasks.
Prerequisite(s): AS.377.216 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.377.316. Third Year Russian II. 3 Credits.
Continuation of AS.377.315. This course offers advanced training in spoken as well as written Russian. Advanced level of grammatical structures will be learned and practiced through communicative tasks.
Prerequisite(s): AS.377.315
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.377.395. Readings in Russian Studies. 2 Credits.
The course examines aspects of Russian culture through Russian literature. Readings include a wide range of texts. In this particular course, we will read a play by a Soviet writer and watch a video recording of a contemporary stage show by the Moscow Art Theater. Participation in the course would require reading authentic Russian texts, extensive classroom discussions, and frequent writing assignments. (All texts and videos are in Russian.) Pre-req: 377.316 or by permission
Prerequisite(s): AS.377.316 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.377.397. Readings in Russian Studies II. 2 Credits.
The course examines aspects of Russian culture through Russian literature. Readings include a wide range of texts. Participation in the course would require reading authentic Russian texts, extensive classroom discussions, and frequent writing assignments. (All texts and videos are in Russian.) Pre-req: 377.315-316 or by permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.378.115. First Year Japanese. 5 Credits.
This course is designed for students who have no background or previous knowledge in Japanese. The course consists of two components: lectures and conversation practicums to ensure the simultaneous progression of four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) . Students participate in speaking exercises and pair/group activities, engaging in interactions within an immersive learning environment. By the end of the semester, students: 1) Can read and write Hiragana/Katakana symbols, and approximately 60 Kanji; 2) Can conjugate verbs, adjectives, and nouns into past tense as well as present tense in their long form; 3) Can create sentences to incorporate locations and time with particles, 4) Can talk about themselves using familiar tangible topics in single subject sentences. No Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.378.116. First Year Japanese II. 5 Credits.
This course is designed for students who have no background or previous knowledge in Japanese. The course consists of lectures on Tuesday/Thursday and conversation classes on Monday/Wednesdays/Fridays. The goal of the course is the simultaneous progression of four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) as well as familiarity with aspects of Japanese culture. By the end of the fall term, students will have basic speaking and listening comprehension skills, a solid grasp of basic grammar items, reading and writing skills, and a recognition and production of approximately 60 kanji in context. Knowledge of grammar will be expanded significantly in 2nd year Japanese. May not be taken Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory. Recommended Course Background: AS.378.115
Prerequisite(s): Prereq: AS.378.115 or instructor permission
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.378.215. Second Year Japanese. 5 Credits.
The goal of the course is the simultaneous progression of four skills as well as familiarity with aspects of Japanese linguistics and culture that are necessary for language competency. Students participate in speaking exercises and pair/group activities, engaging in interactions within an immersive learning environment. By the end of the semester, students: 1) Can read and write a short paragraph with Hiragana, Katakana and approximately 200 Kanji; 2) Can use short forms and long forms whenever necessary; 3) Can talk about other people than themselves (3rd person) by using structures such as a quote and a conjecture; 4) Can expand their conversation using a reason and a contrast.
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.116 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.378.216. Second Year Japanese II. 5 Credits.
Continuation of Beginning Japanese and Intermediate Japanese I. Training in spoken and written language, increasing students' knowledge of more complex patterns. At completion, students will have a working knowledge of about 250 Kanji. Recommended Course Background: AS.378.215 or equivalent.
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.215 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.378.315. Third Year Japanese. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for students who have completed AS.378.216. The course aims to develop communicative skills through participatory activities and to establish a solid linguistic foundation in the basic Japanese grammar patterns. By the end of the semester, students: 1) Can read and write a short paragraph with Hiragana, Katakana and approximately 340 Kanji; 2) can have a command using the basic patterns including the passive and causative; 3) Can explain and describe a simple and familiar subject using multiple sentences; 4) Can create an engaging two-way exchange including follow-ups.
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.216 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.378.316. Third Year Japanese II. 3 Credits.
Emphasis shifts toward reading, while development of oral-aural skills also continues apace. The course presents graded readings in expository prose and requires students to expand their knowledge of Kanji, grammar, and both spoken and written vocabulary. Lab required. Continuation of AS.378.315. Recommended Course Background: AS.378.315 or equivalent.
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.315 or equivalent.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.378.391. Introduction to Readings in Japanese Studies I. 2 Credits.
The two-credit sequence is designed to strengthen reading fluency and comprehension for students with intermediate oral and reading proficiency. The main goal of the course is to learn strategies for reading and comprehending materials written in Japanese. Specific strategies and techniques are introduced, followed by practice. Class materials include diverse genres including drama scripts, essays, and short fiction, in which students will be exposed to a variety of writing styles using both contemporary and classical forms of expression. Graduate students in related fields, such as East Asian Studies, will also benefit by strengthening their ability to read and interpret authentic materials relevant to their research. Participation in the course would require reading authentic Japanese texts and classroom activities conducted in Japanese and weekly writing assignments. There will be no conversation practice. Students who have completed AS.378.116 with Kanji background can enroll with instructor's permission.
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.216 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.378.396. Fundamentals of Japanese Grammar. 2 Credits.
This course is designed for students who have already studied 1st Year Japanese grammar and wish to develop a thorough knowledge of Japanese grammar in order to advance all aspects of language skills to a higher level. It is also appropriate for graduate students who need to be able to read materials written in Japanese. The goal of the course is to provide students with a thorough knowledge of Japanese grammar; therefore, knowledge of vocabulary (including kanji) in depth is not requisite. In addition, since this is not a language course that places equal focus on all four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading), there will be no conversation practice – this is a lecture course on grammar. 2 credits. Pass-fail grade option only
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.116 or permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Science and Data (FA2),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.378.415. Fourth Year Japanese. 3 Credits.
The course promotes the development of effective communication and collaborative skills, while nurturing learning autonomy. The course builds advanced Japanese skills that can be applied to real-life issues and problems through participatory activities. By the end of the semester, students: 1) Can read and write multiple paragraphs with Hiragana, Katakana, and approximately 550 Kanji; 2) Can summarize news stories related to Japan and provide their opinions; 3) Can give a presentation on a topic of their interests and provide the facts and their viewpoints; 4) Can enhance a discussion by posing an opposite point of view as well as acknowledging others’ opinions.
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.316 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.378.416. Fourth Year Japanese II. 3 Credits.
By using four skills in participatory activities (reading, writing, presentation, and discussion), students will develop reading skills in modern Japanese and deepen and enhance their knowledge on Kanji and Japanese culture. Lab required. Recommended Course Background: AS.378.415
Prerequisite(s): AS.378.415 or equivalent.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.378.611. Readings in Japanese Studies. 2 Credits.
This course is designed for graduate students (in East Asian Studies, Public Health, History of Medicine, History,etc.) and undergraduate students with a strong interest in improving Japanesereading skills. The main goal of the course is to learn strategies for reading and comprehending materials written in Japanese without using a dictionary.Specific strategies and techniques are introduced, followed by practice. Class materials include a broad spectrum of native materials, including novels, newspapers, scholarly articles, essays, historical papers, and so forth. A diverse range of articles and essays are selected to introduce and enforce various ways of reading Japanese effectively. 2 credits for undergraduate students.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS.378.801. Independent Study - Japanese. 1 Credit.
Japanese independent course work.
AS.379.115. First Year Haitian-Creole. 3 Credits.
This course is designed for students who have no background in the language and wish to learn the language at an academic level, obtaining knowledge of the linguistic aspects of the language as well as skills needed to communicate in Haitian-Creole. The goal of the course is the simultaneous progression of four skills (speaking, listening, writing, and reading) as well as familiarity with aspects of linguistics and culture that are necessary for language competency in survival level. It is expected that, by the end of the spring term, students will have basic speaking and listening comprehension skills, a solid grasp of basic grammar, reading and writing skills. No Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3)
AS.379.171. First Year Amazigh. 4.5 Credits.
This course introduces students to the basics of the Amazigh language and culture. The course covers foundational grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation while exploring Amazigh history, traditions, and identity.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.379.172. First Year Amazigh II. 4.5 Credits.
This course is a continuation of First Year Amazigh and builds on the basics of the Amazigh language and culture. The course covers foundational grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation while exploring Amazigh history, traditions, and identity.
Prerequisite(s): AS.379.171
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.379.271. Second Year Amazigh. 4.5 Credits.
This course builds on the fundamentals of the Amazigh language learned in the first year and further develops students’ reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. It focuses on advanced grammar, expanded vocabulary, and precise pronunciation, while exploring Amazigh history, traditions, oral literature, and cultural identity. The course aims to enable students to communicate confidently in both linguistic and cultural contexts of Amazigh.
Prerequisite(s): AS.379.172 or instructor permission.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.379.370. Amazigh Social Movements: How North Africa/Tamazgha is Being Transformed. 4.5 Credits.
The course will explore Amazigh social movements in North Africa/Tamazgha, focusing on their historical roots, cultural revival, and political struggles. It will cover themes such as identity, language rights, land and ecology, migration, and gender, and connect Amazigh activism to global Indigenous movements, situating it within broader debates on decolonization and social justice.
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.380.101. First Year Korean. 5 Credits.
Introduces the Korean alphabet, hangeul. Covers basic elements of the Korean language, high-frequency words and phrases, including cultural aspects. Focuses on oral fluency reaching Limited Proficiency where one can handle simple daily conversations. No Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory. Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.380.102. First Year Korean II. 5 Credits.
Focuses on improving speaking fluency to Limited Proficiency so that one can handle simple daily conversations with confidence. It provides basic high-frequency structures and covers Korean holidays. Continuation of AS.380.101. Recommended Course Background: AS.380.101 or permission required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.380.101 or instructor permission
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.380.201. Second Year Korean. 4 Credits.
Aims for improving oral proficiency and confident control of grammar with vocabulary building and correct spelling intended. Reading materials of Korean people, places, and societies will enhance cultural understanding and awareness. Project due on Korean cities. Existing demonstrable skills in spoken Korean preferred.
Prerequisite(s): AS.380.102 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.380.202. Second Year Korean II. 4 Credits.
Aims for improving writing skills with correct spelling. Reading materials of Korean people, places, and societies will enhance cultural understanding and awareness, including discussion on family tree. Continuation of AS.380.201. Recommended Course Background: AS.380.201 or equivalent.
Prerequisite(s): AS.380.201 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.380.301. Third Year Korean. 3 Credits.
Emphasizes reading literacy in classic and modern Korean prose, from easy essays to difficult short stories. Vocabulary refinement and native-like grasp of grammar explored. Project due on Korean culture. Cross-listed with East Asian Studies
Prerequisite(s): AS.380.202 or Instructor Permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.380.302. Third Year Korean II. 3 Credits.
Emphasizes reading literacy in classic and modern Korean prose. By reading Korean newspapers and professional articles in one’s major, it enables one to be well-versed and truly literate. Continuation of AS.380.301. Cross-listed with East Asian StudiesPrerequisite: AS.380.301 or equivalent.
Prerequisite(s): AS.380.301 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.380.401. Fourth Year Korean. 2 Credits.
This course is designed for those who have finished AS 380.302 or beyond advanced mid level of competency in Korean in four skills. By dealing with various topics on authentic materials including news, articles on websites, short stories, this course aims to help students enhance not only linguistics knowledge and skills, but also current issues in Korea. It is expected that, by the end of the term, students will be able to discuss a variety of topics and express opinions fluently in both spoken and written language.
Prerequisite(s): AS.380.302 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.380.402. Fourth Year Korean II. 2 Credits.
This course is designed for those who have finished AS 380.302 or beyond advanced mid level of competency in Korean in four skills. By dealing with various topics on authentic materials including news, articles on websites, short stories, this course aims to help students enhance not only linguistics knowledge and skills, but also current issues in Korea. It is expected that, by the end of the term, students will be able to discuss a variety of topics and express opinions fluently in both spoken and written language.
Prerequisite(s): AS.380.401 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.381.101. First Year Hindi I. 3 Credits.
Course focuses on acquisition of additional vocabulary and grammatical structures in culturally authentic contexts, listening, speaking, reading, and writing comprehension. No Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.381.102. First Year Hindi II. 3 Credits.
This course prepares students to function in everyday situations in the Hindi speaking world. Focuses on the acquisition of basic vocabulary and grammatical structures in culturally authentic contexts through listening, speaking, reading, and writing comprehension. Hindi reading and writing is taught in its original Dayva-nagari script. Oral-aural drills in class and work in the Language Lab is required.
Prerequisite(s): AS.381.101 or instructor permission
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.381.201. Second Year Hindi I. 3 Credits.
Course provides refinement of basic language skills in cultural context. Emphasis will be on expansion of vocabulary and grammatical structures and further development of communicative skills. Recommended Course Background: AS.381.101, AS.382.102
Prerequisite(s): AS.381.102 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.383.111. First Year Sanskrit I. 3 Credits.
This course provides a comprehensive, intensive introduction to the study of Sanskrit. During the first semester, the emphasis will be on euphonic combination, morphology and vocabulary. Students will have the opportunity to continue with First Year Sanskrit II in the spring term.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.383.112. First Year Sanskrit II. 3 Credits.
A continuation of AS.383.111. This course provides a comprehensive, intensive introduction to the study of Sanskrit. The first semester's focus is on euphonic combination, morphology and vocabulary; the second semester's on syntax and reading texts.
Prerequisite(s): AS.383.111
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.383.211. Second Year Sanskrit I. 3 Credits.
This course aims to review and stabilize the knowledge of Sanskrit grammar, and to develop the ability to read Sanskrit texts autonomously with the aid of a dictionary. The first semester will feature selections from the Sanskrit epics, the Ramaya?a and the Mahabharata, or other examples of narrative literature. Selections will vary from year to year according to student interest.
Prerequisite(s): AS.383.112 or Instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Cross Listed Courses
Modern Languages and Literatures
AS.210.120. Modern Hebrew for Beginners I. 3 Credits.
Elementary Modern Hebrew is the first exposure to the language as currently used in Israel in all its functional contexts. All components of the language are discussed: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Simple idiomatic sentences and short texts in Hebrew are used. Students learn the Hebrew alphabet, words and short sentences. Cultural aspects of Israel will be intertwined throughout the course curriculum.
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.210.121. Modern Hebrew for Beginners II. 3 Credits.
Hebrew for Beginners 121 is a continuation of Hebrew 120 and as such, students are required to have a foundation in Hebrew. The course will enhance and continue to expose students to Hebrew grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. All components of the Hebrew language will be emphasized in this course; we will highlight verbs, adjectives, and the ability to read longer texts. Speaking in Hebrew will also be highlighted to promote students’ engagement and communication. Cultural aspects of the language will be incorporated into lessons too
Prerequisite(s): AS.384.115 OR AS.210.120
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.210.214. Semitic Sisters: The Intersection of Hebrew and Arabic Language Learning. 1 Credit.
This project will offer a 1 credit course over the course of 5 weeks during Spring 2026 to students who have demonstrated intermediate level proficiency and/ or above in Hebrew and/or in Arabic. Through this course, students will get the opportunity to explore the many linguistic, social, and cultural similarities and differences between the two semitic languages. The ultimate goal of the course would be to promote dialogue and expose students to new perspectives through cultural exchanges and comparisons. Students will build stronger connections among learners, be encouraged cross-cultural engagement, and nuance each other’s language and perspectives. This class is meant to promote both inter- and intra- cultural conversations, appealing to students of diverse backgrounds and lived experiences. (Elementary Hebrew or/and Arabic required.)
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.210.220. Intermediate Hebrew I. 3 Credits.
Intermediate Modern Hebrew enhances and enforces previous knowledge of Hebrew as acquired from previous foundational coursework and/or experience. Grammatical aspects of the language such as past and present tenses as well as combined and complex sentence syntax and construction would be applied. Reading comprehension and writing skills will be emphasized. Modern Israeli cultural links and facets of the Hebrew language will also be introduced to inform the holistic understanding of the modern language.
Prerequisite(s): AS.384.116 OR AS.210.121 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.210.221. Intermediate Modern Hebrew II. 3 Credits.
Intermediate Hebrew level II is a continuation of the course Hebrew 220 and as such is a requirement for entry. In the course, grammatical aspects of the language will be introduced in the focus of past and future tenses. Combined and complex sentences with proper syntax and reading comprehension and writing skills will be required. Modern Israeli cultural aspects of the Hebrew language will be introduced as well and will be part of the holistic understanding of the modern language.
Prerequisite(s): AS.384.215 OR AS.210.220
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
AS.210.320. Advanced Modern Hebrew I. 3 Credits.
Advanced Modern Hebrew I will focus on conversational and interactive language skills to expose learners to attributes of different genres and layers of the language. Students will be introduced to various original texts and lingual patterns to better understand and formulate proper syntax. The course will include contemporary readings from Israeli journalism and essays, along with other relevant Hebrew resources to inform class discussions and students’ reflective writings. Israeli cultural aspects will be integral to the course curriculum.
Prerequisite(s): AS.384.216 OR AS.210.221 or equivalent
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive
AS.210.321. Advanced Hebrew through Israeli Cinema. 3 Credits.
This course will expand students’ fluencies in Modern Hebrew through Hebrew-dialogic Israeli and Palestinian cinema, examining and comparing several layers of a contemporary Hebrew-speaking society. For this class, students will view, discuss, and write about films with Hebrew as the primary spoken language. Through aural interpretation and subtitles, students will understand, analyze, and reflectively discuss the diversity of Hebrew-speaking cultures within society and the provenance and intentionalities of the dialects exhibited throughout a given film. Linguistic nuance, slang, and interpretive aspects of Hebrew as shown in the chosen films will prompt students to examine this modality of the expression of contemporary Hebrew. The course will be taught primarily in Hebrew and will be open to students who have matriculated to at least 200-level coursework of Modern Hebrew.
Prerequisite(s): AS.384.315 OR AS.210.320 or instructor permission
Distribution Area: Humanities
AS Foundational Abilities: Writing and Communication (FA1),
Culture and Aesthetics (FA3),
Citizens and Society (FA4)
EN Foundational Abilities: Creative Expression (FA3),
Engagement with Society (FA4)
Writing Intensive