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World Languages and Cultures

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OVERVIEW OF DEPARTMENT OFFERINGS

World language study should be an integral part of an academic program for most students. The theoretical understanding of and practical experience in language underlie many intellectual disciplines that try to meet the complex problems of contemporary society. Courses offered by the Department of World Languages and Cultures are designed to develop students' understanding of a second culture through the language spoken by that culture.

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers the following majors:

  • Anthropology (B.A. or B.S.)
  • World Languages and Cultures (B.A.) with the following options:
    • French
    • German
    • Spanish
    • Language Teacher Preparation, for French, German, Spanish
  • World Languages and Cultures Additional Major with the following options for students with a primary major in another field:
    • French - OR - French (Languages and Cultures for Professions)
    • German - OR - German (Languages and Cultures for Professions)
    • Spanish - OR - Spanish (Languages and Cultures for Professions)

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers the following minors:

  • Anthropology
  • Chinese Studies
    • Chinese Studies (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions)
  • French
  • German
    • German (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions)
  • Middle Eastern Studies
  • Russian Studies
    • Russian Studies (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions)
  • Spanish
    • Spanish (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions)
  • Spanish Translation and Interpretation Studies
  • World Film Studies

Additional Language Instruction

  • American Sign Language
  • Arabic
  • Classical Latin
  • Italian
  • Portuguese

The Department houses several College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Cross Disciplinary Studies Programs:

Students at all levels of world language study will have access to the Language Studies Resource Center, located in 3142 Pearson. The Resource Center contains an extensive collection of world language materials, including audio-visual materials, electronic resources, music, books, language specific software and hardware, and other course-related materials.

WORLD LANGUAGES AND CULTURES, B.A.

World Languages and Cultures (B.A.) with the following options:

  • French
  • German
  • Spanish
  • Language Teacher Preparation, for French, German, Spanish

As majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, World Languages and Cultures students must meet College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and University-wide requirements for graduation in addition to those stated for the major and option.

WORLD LANGUAGES AND CULTURES ADDITIONAL MAJOR

The World Languages and Cultures Additional Major has six options, plus teacher preparation.

  • French
  • French (Languages and Cultures for Professions)
  • German
  • German (Languages and Cultures for Professions)
  • Spanish
  • Spanish (Languages and Cultures for Professions)
  • Language Teacher Preparation, for French, German, Spanish

Student Learning Outcomes for the World Languages and Cultures Major

Upon the completion of their program of studies in the Department of World Languages and Cultures, majors with a concentration in French, German, or Spanish will demonstrate proficiency in five goal areas: Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities. Using their concentration language, students will be able to:

1. COMMUNICATION: understand, interpret, and present information, to negotiate meaning, and to communicate in spoken or written conversations to share information, reactions, feeling, and opinions to various audiences of listeners, readers, or viewers.

2. CULTURES: investigate, explain, and reflect on the relationship between the practices and the perspectives of the cultures studied.

3. CONNECTIONS: demonstrate their ability to build, reinforce, and expand their knowledge of other disciplines and to access and evaluate information from diverse perspectives, while also developing critical thinking to solve problems creatively.

4. COMPARISONS: investigate, explain, and reflect on the nature of language as well as the concept of culture through comparisons of their own culture with other cultures and the language studied.

5. COMMUNITIES: demonstrate an ability to use the language both within and beyond the classroom and to interact and collaborate in their community and the globalized world while also setting goals and reflecting on their progress in using languages for enjoyment, enrichment, and advancement.

Graduates will achieve both linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy through the study of the language and culture of their program. Linguistic proficiency entails the ability to function effectively in the target language and the ability to communicate competently with native speakers of the target language. Cultural literacy includes a general knowledge of the culture's history, familiarity with its literature, and basic knowledge of its social and political institutions.

GENERAL B.A. REQUIREMENTS

LAS majors require a minimum of 120 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 3000/4000 level. You must also complete the LAS world language requirement and career proficiency requirement.

Students in all ISU majors must complete a three-credit course in U.S. Cultures and Communities and a three-credit course in international perspectives. Check (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) for a list of approved courses. Discuss with your advisor how the two courses that you select can be applied to your graduation plan.

Communication Proficiency Requirements: According to the university-wide Communication Proficiency Grade Requirement, students must demonstrate their communication proficiency by earning a grade of C or better in ENGL 2500 Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition (or ENGL 2500H Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition: Honors). As the upper-level communication requirement, the Department requires a grade of C or better in any course numbered between 3700 and 3790 taught by the Department of World Languages and Cultures (with the exception of Anthropology courses) or the interdepartmental program in Classical Studies. Such a course will also fill an LAS Area I (Arts and Humanities) requirement.

LANGUAGES AND CULTURES FOR PROFESSIONS (LCP)

What are Languages and Cultures for Professions? The primary objective of the LCP options is to provide learning environments within which students can achieve global literacy, linguistic proficiency, and inter-cultural competence. In the LCP curriculum, students will learn how professions are shaped by social and cultural forces and, alternatively, how professions shape society. In courses on contemporary culture and society, students will identify and analyze issues dealing with the complex interrelationships of languages and cultures and consider how they may affect their chosen profession. Students will experience living and working in diverse cultural settings through study abroad and internship opportunities offered through the LCP program and/or in collaboration with their respective primary-major colleges or the ISU Study Abroad Center.

Students can complete a World Languages and Cultures Additional Major with an option in French LCP, German LCP, or Spanish LCP. The following LCP minors are available: Chinese Studies (LCP), German (LCP), Russian Studies (LCP), Spanish (LCP). Students enrolled in an LCP option of the World Languages and Cultures Additional Major may receive non-graded academic credit for the successful completion of internships (WLC courses numbered 4990 in each language area).

For the LCP options of the World Languages and Cultures Additional Major, students will complete 30 credits within their language concentration (see specific language requirements to the right) beyond the fourth-semester level, selected from the list of approved LCP core courses and electives designated for their respective college curricula. Students may only enroll in the LCP options as an WLC Additional Major and may not graduate with the LCP option in the WLC primary major.

Students in the College of Business may combine course work in the International Business (IB) Secondary Major with course work in LCP by selecting from a list of approved options. Students should consult their academic advisor in the College of Business and the WLC advisor for coursework and international experience that fulfill requirements in both the IB and LCP options.

American Sign Language (ASL)

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers coursework in American Sign Language. There are no minors or major options.

A listing of American Sign Language Coursework is available in the A-Z course list and below.

Courses primarily for undergraduate students

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

Introduction to American Sign Language (ASL). Development of expressive and receptive skills including vocabulary, grammar, usage, and cultural information. Note: Distinct from 'Signed English'. ASL is a natural language with its own rules of grammar and usage. (Typically Offered: Fall, Spring)

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

Prereq: ASL 1010
Introduction to American Sign Language (ASL) II continues development of expressive and receptive skills introduced in American Sign Language I, including vocabulary, grammar, usage, and cultural information. Distinct from 'Signed English'. ASL is a natural language with its own rules of grammar and usage. (Typically Offered: Spring)

Credits: 1. Contact Hours: Lecture 1.

Nature and significance of the Deaf-World as a cultural and linguistic minority.

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

Prereq: ASL 1020
Development of fluency for intermediate conversational skills. Review of grammar and varying grammatical forms for both structured and unstructured social situations such as sharing opinions, discussing weekend activities, and exchanging views on current topics. (Typically Offered: Fall)

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

Prereq: ASL 2010
A continuation and further application of language principles learned in ASL 2010, to deepen ability to actively engage in dialogue both in structured and unstructured social situations. Further fluency in intermediate conversational skills will be developed, particularly in the areas of semantic equivalence and dialogic/monologic register. (Typically Offered: Spring)

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Focus on contemporary topics in Deaf Culture, Communities, and History. Readings and discussion from a wide range of sources. Topics vary according to faculty interest.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: ASL 2010
Focused analysis, documentation, discussion, and increased development of classifiers and depiction in ASL. Investigation in how these grammatical features are deliberately incorporated into conversational, presentational, scientific, and artistic language production.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: ASL 2020 or Permission of Instructor
Perspectives on and treatment of deaf people as individuals and groups prior to World War II. Taught in American Sign Language. (Typically Offered: Fall)

Credits: 1-6. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits.

Designed to meet the needs of students in areas other than those in which courses are offered, or who desire to integrate a study of literature or language with special problems in major fields. Graduation Restriction: No more than 6 credits of ASL 4900 may be counted towards graduation. (Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer)

Arabic (ARABC)

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers coursework in Arabic. There are no minors or major options.

A listing of Arabic Coursework is available in the A-Z course list and below.

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 5.

Beginning level development of reading, writing, listening comprehension, and speaking in Arabic, within the context of Arabic culture. Attention to the use of the Arabic alphabet. (Typically Offered: Fall)

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 5.

Prereq: ARABC 1010 or placement by department exam
Continuation of ARABC 1010. Beginning level development of reading, writing, listening comprehension, and speaking in Arabic, within the context of Arabic culture. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Spring)

Credits: 1-30.

Supervised instruction in Arabic language and culture, formal class instruction at level appropriate to student's training, augmented by practical living experience. Taught in Arabic. (Typically Offered: Summer)

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

Prereq: ARABC 1020 or placement by department exam
Intermediate level development of reading, writing, listening comprehension, and speaking in Arabic, within the context of Arabic culture. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Fall)

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

Prereq: ARABC 2010 or placement by department exam
Continuation of ARABC 2010. Intermediate level development of reading, writing, listening comprehension, and speaking in Arabic, within the context of Arabic culture. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Credits: 1-30.

Prereq: ARABC 1020
Supervised instruction in Arabic language and culture, formal class instruction at level appropriate to student's training, augmented by practical living experience. Taught in Arabic. (Typically Offered: Summer)

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Survey of contemporary Arab culture in the Middle East and North Africa as reflected in history, language, the arts, and social institutions with attention to the Arab Diaspora. Taught in English. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Spring)

Credits: 1-6. Repeatable.

Prereq: Instructor Permission for Course

CHINESE

Minor in Chinese Studies

The Minor in Chinese Studies requires the following 17 credits:

CHIN 2010Intermediate Mandarin Chinese I4
CHIN 2020Intermediate Mandarin Chinese II4
Electives at the 3000 level and above
6-9 credits from the following6-9
Advanced Mandarin Chinese I
Advanced Mandarin Chinese II
Chinese for Global Professionals
Chinese Literature in English Translation
Introduction to Chinese Culture
China Today
Chinese Film and Society
Seminar in Chinese Language and Culture: Translating Contemporary Chinese Texts
Seminar in Chinese Language and Culture: Topics on Business and Professions
Seminar in Chinese Language and Culture: Reading Chinese Texts
0-3 credits from the following:
History, Theory, and Criticism of Chinese Architecture
Ancient China
Modern China
Chinese Politics

Minor in Chinese Studies (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions)

Students who complete a Minor in Chinese Studies (Languages and Cultures for Professions) seek to become culturally-competent global professionals and engage in language and cultural training. The minor requires the following 17 credits:

CHIN 2010Intermediate Mandarin Chinese I4
CHIN 2020Intermediate Mandarin Chinese II4
Electives at the 3000 level and above
6-9 credits from the following:6-9
Advanced Mandarin Chinese I
Advanced Mandarin Chinese II
Chinese for Global Professionals
Chinese Literature in English Translation
Introduction to Chinese Culture
China Today
Chinese Film and Society
Seminar in Chinese Language and Culture: Translating Contemporary Chinese Texts
Seminar in Chinese Language and Culture: Topics on Business and Professions
Seminar in Chinese Language and Culture: Reading Chinese Texts
Internship in Chinese
0-3 credits from the following:
History, Theory, and Criticism of Chinese Architecture
Ancient China
Modern China
Chinese Politics

Students in the Chinese LCP Minor are encouraged to study abroad in a Chinese-speaking country or complete a relevant internship.

A listing of all Chinese Coursework is available in the A-Z course list.

FRENCH

World Languages and Cultures, B.A., French Option

See World Languages and Cultures, B.A. for general requirements.

W.L.C. (World Languages and Cultures) Students with a concentration in French must complete at least 30 credits beyond the intermediate level (FRNCH 2010 FRNCH 2020).

Required Courses for the French Studies Option (12 credits)
FRNCH 3010Language, Culture, Contexts3
FRNCH 3020Text and Media Analysis3
FRNCH 3400Cultural Expressions in the French-Speaking World3
FRNCH 4400Seminar in French and/or Francophone Studies3
Additional Courses (at least 18 credits)
FRNCH 3040French for Global Professionals3
FRNCH 3050French Conversation3
FRNCH 3100French Pronunciation1
FRNCH 3200France Today3
FRNCH 3260French and Francophone Film3
FRNCH 3400Cultural Expressions in the French-Speaking World3
FRNCH 3700French Studies in English4
FRNCH 3750Francophone Studies in English4
FRNCH 3780French Cinema4
FRNCH 3950Study Abroad1-10
French Option WLC Majors must enroll in FRNCH 3700, FRNCH 3750, and/or FRNCH 3780 for 4 credits in French. No more than 12 credits from FRNCH 3700, FRNCH 3750, and/or FRNCH 3780 may be counted for the major. Credit from French 3950 “En France” or an approved study abroad program may be applied to the major.

Study Abroad: The department strongly recommends that all students of French participate in an approved study abroad program based in a French-speaking country. Credit from an approved study abroad program may be applied to the major or minor.

Additional Language Teacher Preparation Requirements

LING 4870Methods in Secondary School World Language Instruction (same as WLC 4870 & LING 4870)3
or ENGL 3180 Introduction to ESL methods and materials
PSYCH 2300Developmental Psychology3
POLS 1110Introduction to American Government (or a course in U.S. History )3
Additional requirements of the Secondary Major in Education. See footnote for catalog link to requirements. TP
TP

Students preparing to teach a language declare the Secondary Major in Education and complete the additional course requirements.

World Languages and Cultures Additional Major, French Option

The requirements for the World Languages and Cultures Additional Major with the French Option are the same as the major requirements for the primary major listed above.

World Languages and Cultures Additional Major, French Language and Cultures for Professions (LCP) Option

Students who complete an additional major in World Languages and Cultures with LCP Option seek to become culturally competent global professionals and engage in language and cultural training. Note: Students may only enroll in the French Languages and Cultures for Professions (LCP) Option as an additional major; they may not graduate with this as a primary major.

Students are required to take at least 30 credits beyond the intermediate level (FRNCH 2010 & FRNCH 2020). 

Required LCP Core Courses (16 credits)
FRNCH 3010Language, Culture, Contexts3
FRNCH 3020Text and Media Analysis3
FRNCH 3040French for Global Professionals3
FRNCH 3200France Today3
FRNCH 3400Cultural Expressions in the French-Speaking World3
FRNCH 4990Internship in French1-3
Additional Courses (at least 14 credits)
FRNCH 3050French Conversation3
FRNCH 3100French Pronunciation1
FRNCH 3260French and Francophone Film3
FRNCH 3400Cultural Expressions in the French-Speaking World3
FRNCH 3700French Studies in English4
FRNCH 3750Francophone Studies in English4
FRNCH 3780French Cinema4
FRNCH 3950Study Abroad1-10
FRNCH 4400Seminar in French and/or Francophone Studies3
French LCP Option WLC Majors must enroll in FRNCH 3700, FRNCH 3750 and/or FRNCH 3780 for 4 credits in French. No more than 12 credits from FRNCH 3700, FRNCH 3750 and/or FRNCH 3780 may be counted for the major. Credit from French 3950 "En France" or an approved study abroad program may be applied to the major.

MINOR IN FRENCH

The Minor in French requires at least 17 credits of courses taught in French beyond the elementary level (FRNCH 1010 Elementary French I & FRNCH 1020 Elementary French II).

Required Core Courses (11 credits)
FRNCH 2010Intermediate French I4
FRNCH 2020Intermediate French II4
FRNCH 3010Language, Culture, Contexts3
Additional Courses (at least 6 credits)
FRNCH 3020Text and Media Analysis3
FRNCH 3040French for Global Professionals3
FRNCH 3050French Conversation3
FRNCH 3200France Today3
FRNCH 3260French and Francophone Film3
FRNCH 3400Cultural Expressions in the French-Speaking World3
FRNCH 3950Study Abroad1-10
FRNCH 4400Seminar in French and/or Francophone Studies3
Credit from French 3950 “En France" or an approved study abroad program may be applied to the minor. French 3700, 3750, 3780, and 4760 cannot count toward the minor. Students who place into and earn credit in the 3000-level sequence may replace FRNCH 2010 & 2020 with test-out credit.

Study Abroad: The department strongly recommends that all students of French participate in an approved study abroad program based in a French-speaking country. Credit from an approved study abroad program may be applied to the major or minor.

A listing of all French Coursework is available in the A-Z course list. 

GERMAN

World Languages and Cultures, B.A., German Option

See World Languages and Cultures, B.A. for general requirements.

Students with a concentration in German must complete at least 30 credits beyond the intermediate level (GER 2010 & GER 2020).

German Option Required Core Courses (22 credits)
GER 3010Reading3
GER 3020Composition3
GER 3040German for Global Professionals3
GER 3050Conversation3
GER 3200Germany Today3
GER 3300German Literature and Culture3
GER 4760Topics in German Cultural Studies4
Additional Courses (8 credits)8
GER 3300
German Literature and Culture (Repeatable once when offered with a different topic.)
Internship in German (Study Abroad and Internship Option)
Courses taught in English (maximum of eight credits applicable towards the major; must enroll for 4 credits)
German Studies in English
The Holocaust in Text, Image, and Memory
Grimms' Tales
German Film and Media Studies

Study Abroad: The department strongly recommends that all students of German participate in an approved study abroad program based in a German-speaking country. Credit from an approved study abroad program may be applied to the major.

Additional Language Teacher Preparation Requirements

LING 4870Methods in Secondary School World Language Instruction (same as WLC 4870 & LING 4870)3
or ENGL 3180 Introduction to ESL methods and materials
PSYCH 2300Developmental Psychology3
POLS 1110Introduction to American Government (or a course in U.S. History )3
Additional requirements of the Secondary Major in Education. See footnote for catalog link to requirements. TP
TP

Students preparing to teach a language declare the Secondary Major in Education and complete the additional course requirements.

World Languages and Cultures Additional Major, German Option

The requirements for the World Languages and Cultures Additional Major with the German Option are the same as the major requirements for the primary major listed above.

World Languages and Cultures Additional Major, German Language and Cultures for Professions (LCP) Option

Students who complete an additional major in World Languages and Cultures with LCP Option seek to become culturally competent global professionals and engage in language and cultural training. Note: Students may only enroll in the German Languages and Cultures for Professions (LCP) Option as an additional major; they may not graduate with this as a primary major.

Students must complete a minimum of 30 credits beyond the intermediate level (GER 2010 Intermediate German I & GER 2020 Intermediate German II).

Required German LCP Core Courses (19 credits)
GER 3010Reading3
GER 3040German for Global Professionals3
GER 3050Conversation3
GER 3200Germany Today3
GER 4760Topics in German Cultural Studies4
GER 4990Internship in German (or approved credit-bearing study abroad experience)3
Additional Courses (11 credits)
GER 3020Composition3
GER 3300German Literature and Culture3
Courses taught in English (maximum of eight credits applicable towards the major; must enroll for 4 credits)
German Studies in English
The Holocaust in Text, Image, and Memory
Grimms' Tales
German Film and Media Studies

Minor in German

The Minor in German requires at least 17 credits of courses taught in German. At least 9 credits must be 3000-level German courses, 3 credits of which must be chosen from GER 3200 and 3300.

GER 2010Intermediate German I4
GER 2020Intermediate German II4
3 credits must be in literature or culture taught in German3
Germany Today
German Literature and Culture
6 additional credits from the following6
Reading
Composition
German for Global Professionals
Conversation
Germany Today
German Literature and Culture
Note: Courses taught primarily in English (German 3700, 3710, 3750, 3780, and 4760) cannot count toward the German minor.

Minor in German (Option: Language and Cultures for Professions)

Students who complete a Minor in German (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions) seek to become culturally competent global professionals and engage in language and cultural training. The German Minor (LCP Option) requires at least 17 credits of courses taught in German. At least 9 credits must be 3000-level German courses, including the required course GER 3040.

GER 2010Intermediate German I4
GER 2020Intermediate German II4
GER 3040German for Global Professionals3
6 additional credits from the following6
Reading
Composition
Conversation
Germany Today
German Literature and Culture
Note: Courses taught primarily in English (German 3700, 3710, 3750, 3780, and 4760) cannot count toward the German LCP Minor.

A listing of all German Coursework is available in the A-Z course list. 

Italian (ITAL)

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers coursework in Italian. There are no minors or major options.

A listing of Italian Coursework is available in the A-Z course list and below.

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

A communicative approach to grammar and vocabulary within the context of Italian culture for students whose native language is not Italian. Taught in Italian. (Typically Offered: Fall, Spring)

Latin (LATIN)

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers coursework in Latin. There are no minors or major options.

For courses in Latin literature taught in English, see Classical Studies.

A listing of Latin Coursework is available in the A-Z course list and below.

Courses primarily for undergraduate students

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Grammar and vocabulary of classical Latin, within the context of Roman culture; reading knowledge through texts adapted from classical authors. (Typically Offered: Fall)

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Grammar and vocabulary of classical Latin, within the context of Roman culture; reading knowledge through texts adapted from classical authors. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Spring)

Credits: 1-6. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.

Prereq: 9 credits in LATIN; Permission of Department Chair
Designed to meet the needs of students who seek work in areas other than those in which courses are offered, or who desire to integrate a study of literature or language with special problems in major fields. Graduation Restriction: No more than 9 credits in LATIN 4900 may be counted toward graduation.

Portuguese (PORT)

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers coursework in Portuguese. There are no minors or major options.

A listing of Portuguese Coursework is available in the A-Z course list and below.

Courses primarily for undergraduate students

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

An introduction to the Portuguese language through the communicative approach within the context of Luso-Brazilian culture.

Credits: 4. Contact Hours: Lecture 4.

Prereq: PORT 1010
An introduction to the Portuguese language through the communicative approach within the context of Luso-Brazilian culture. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

A communicative approach to grammar and vocabulary within the context of Luso-Brazilian culture for students whose native language is not Portuguese. Taught in Portuguese.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: PORT 1110
An introduction to the Portuguese language through the communicative approach within the context of Luso-Brazilian culture. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

A survey of social, political, economic, and cultural topics relevant to contemporary Brazil. Includes an introduction to Portuguese language. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Fall)

RUSSIAN

Minor in Russian Studies

The Minor in Russian Studies requires 17 credits, 9 of which must be at the 3000 level or higher.

RUS 2010Intermediate Russian I4
RUS 2020Intermediate Russian II4
9 credits must be at the 3000 level and above, including at least 3 credits in the Russian curriculum (courses taught in English or Russian).9
Composition and Conversation
Russian for Global Professionals
Reading Russian Literary and Cultural Texts
Russian Studies in English Translation
Russian Studies in English Translation: Topics in Russian Literature
Russian Studies in English Translation: Russian Fairy Tales
Studies in English Translation: Russian Topics on Women or Feminism
Russia Today
Russian Film Studies in English
Study Abroad
Internship in Russian
RUS 5900
Special Topics in Russian
History of Russia I
History of Russia II
Readings Seminar in Modern Russian/Soviet History
Politics of Russia and Eastern Europe

Minor in Russian Studies (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions)

The Minor in Russian Studies (LCP) requires 17 credits.

Required Core Courses11
Intermediate Russian I
Intermediate Russian II
Russian for Global Professionals
Electives6
Composition and Conversation
Reading Russian Literary and Cultural Texts
Russian Studies in English Translation
Russian Studies in English Translation: Topics in Russian Literature
Russian Studies in English Translation: Russian Fairy Tales
Studies in English Translation: Russian Topics on Women or Feminism
Russia Today
Russian Film Studies in English
Study Abroad
Independent Study
Internship in Russian
RUS 5900
Special Topics in Russian
History of Russia I
History of Russia II
Readings Seminar in Modern Russian/Soviet History
Politics of Russia and Eastern Europe

 A listing of all Russian Coursework is available in the A-Z course list. 

SPANISH

World Languages and Cultures, B.A., Spanish Option

See World Languages and Cultures, B.A. for general requirements.

Students with a concentration in Spanish must complete a minimum of 30 credits beyond the intermediate level (SPAN 2010 Intermediate Spanish I & SPAN 2020 Intermediate Spanish II).

Spanish Required Core Courses (9 credits)
SPAN 3030ASpanish Conversation and Composition: through Culture3
or SPAN 3030B Spanish Conversation and Composition: for Professionals
SPAN 3140Textual and Media Analyses3
SPAN 3520Spanish Pronunciation3
Additional Courses: Students must take at least 15 credits chosen from A, B, and C below (minimum 3 credits from each).15
A) At least 3 credits of literary studies chosen from the following:
Studies in Spanish Literature
Studies in Latin American Literature
B) At least 3 credits of cultural studies chosen from the following:
Spanish for Global Professionals
Spanish Civilization
Latin American Civilization
Spain Today
Latin America Today
Culture and Community: Iowa and Midwest Latino/as
Studies in Hispanic Art or Film
C) At least 3 credits of applied language and linguistics chosen from the following:
Mini-Modules for Global Professionals: Tourism and Hospitality
Mini-Modules for Global Professionals: Health and Medicine
Mini-Modules for Global Professionals: Criminal Justice and the Law
Spanish for Heritage Speakers
Introduction to Spanish-English Translation
Introduction to Spanish-English Interpretation
Advanced Composition and Grammar
Contrastive Analysis of Spanish/ English for Translators
Contemporary Spanish Linguistics
Internship in Spanish
Students may apply up to 6 credits of SPAN 3950 Study Abroad to section A, B, or C above (appropriate section based upon course content and assigned by the WLC advisor).
Students must take at least 6 credits of language, literature and/or culture at the 4000 level, chosen from the following (each repeatable to 6 credits):6
Seminar on the Literatures and Cultures of Spain
Seminar on Cervantes and the Golden Age
Seminar on the Literatures and Cultures of Latin America
SPAN 4630
Contemporary Spanish Linguistics
Approved study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country or completion of an additional course from the approved options.0-3

Study Abroad: The department strongly recommends that all students of Spanish participate in an approved study abroad program based in a Spanish-speaking country. Any student pursuing the World Languages and Cultures Major, Spanish (Hispanic Studies) Option who chooses not to participate in a department-approved study abroad program will be required to take 3 additional elective credits of Spanish at or above the SPAN 3210 level (for a total of 33 credits beyond the intermediate 2010-2020 level).

Additional Language Teacher Preparation Requirements

LING 4870Methods in Secondary School World Language Instruction (same as WLC 4870 & LING 4870)3
or ENGL 3180 Introduction to ESL methods and materials
PSYCH 2300Developmental Psychology3
POLS 1110Introduction to American Government (or a course in U.S. History )3
Additional requirements of the Secondary Major in Education. See footnote for catalog link to requirements. TP
TP

Students preparing to teach a language declare the Secondary Major in Education and complete the additional course requirements.

World Languages and Cultures Additional Major, Spanish Option

The requirements for the World Languages and Cultures Additional Major with the Spanish Option are the same as the major requirements for the primary major listed above.

World Languages and Cultures Additional Major, Spanish Language and Cultures for Professions (LCP) Option

Students who complete an additional major in World Languages and Cultures with LCP Option seek to become culturally-competent global professionals and engage in language and cultural training. Note: Students may only enroll in the Spanish Languages and Cultures for Professions (LCP) Option as an additional major; they may not graduate with this as a primary major.

Students must complete a minimum of 30 credits beyond the intermediate level (SPAN 2010 Intermediate Spanish I & SPAN 2020 Intermediate Spanish II).

A. Required LCP Core Courses: (12 Credits)
SPAN 3030BSpanish Conversation and Composition: for Professionals3
SPAN 3040Spanish for Global Professionals3
SPAN 3510Introduction to Spanish-English Translation3
SPAN 4990Internship in Spanish *3
or SPAN 3950 Study Abroad
B. Literature and Culture Courses: (9 Credits)
SPAN 3140Textual and Media Analyses3
SPAN 3230Spain Today3
or SPAN 3210 Spanish Civilization
SPAN 3240Latin America Today3
or SPAN 3220 Latin American Civilization
C. Additional Courses: Select one course from each of the following two categories (6 credits)
Category 1:
SPAN 3300Studies in Spanish Literature3
or SPAN 3320 Studies in Latin American Literature
Category 2:
SPAN 4400Seminar on the Literatures and Cultures of Spain3
or SPAN 4410 Seminar on Cervantes and the Golden Age
or SPAN 4450 Seminar on the Literatures and Cultures of Latin America
or SPAN 4630 Contemporary Spanish Linguistics
D. Additional 3 credits taken at the SPAN 3000-level or higher.3

*Additional credit from an approved study abroad program may be applied to the major.

Minor in Spanish

The Minor in Spanish requires at least 15 credits, 12 of which must be at the 3000 level or higher. The department strongly recommends that all students of Spanish participate in an approved study abroad program based in a Spanish-speaking country. Any student who chooses not to participate in a department-approved study abroad program will be required to take 3 additional elective credits of Spanish at the 3000 level or higher.

Minor in Spanish (Option: Language and Cultures for Professions)

Students who complete a Minor in Spanish (Option: Languages and Cultures for Professions) seek to become culturally-competent global professionals and engage in language and cultural training. The minor option requires the following 15 credits:

SPAN 3030BSpanish Conversation and Composition: for Professionals3
SPAN 3040Spanish for Global Professionals3
SPAN 3510Introduction to Spanish-English Translation3
One of the following3
Spanish Civilization
Latin American Civilization
Spain Today
Latin America Today
Approved study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country or completion of an additional course from the approved options.3

Minor in Spanish Translation and Interpretation Studies

The Minor in Spanish Translation and Interpretation Studies requires the following 15 credits.

SPAN 3030BSpanish Conversation and Composition: for Professionals3
or SPAN 3040 Spanish for Global Professionals
or SPAN 3050 Spanish for Heritage Speakers
SPAN 3510
SPAN 3540
Introduction to Spanish-English Translation
and Introduction to Spanish-English Interpretation
6
Choose two of the following courses (6 credits)6
Spanish Pronunciation
Contrastive Analysis of Spanish/ English for Translators
Contemporary Spanish Linguistics
Transfer credit accepted at ISU or credit earned on an ISU-approved study abroad program can apply toward the minor. The minor is intended for students pursuing or holding a baccalaureate degree at ISU and open to any student with proficiency in Spanish that would place them into the 3000-level.

STUDY ABROAD ALTERNATIVES

The department strongly recommends that all students of Spanish participate in an approved study abroad program based in a Spanish-speaking country. For programs that allow an additional course instead of study abroad, any student who chooses not to participate in a department-approved study abroad program will be required to take 3 additional credits in culture chosen from the following:

SPAN 3210Spanish Civilization3
SPAN 3220Latin American Civilization3
SPAN 3230Spain Today3
or SPAN 3240 Latin America Today
Students taking either SPAN 3210 or SPAN 3230 must take either SPAN 3220 or SPAN 3240; students taking either SPAN 3220 or SPAN 3240 must take either SPAN 3210 or SPAN 3230.

 A listing of all Spanish Coursework is available in the A-Z course list.

PLACEMENT POLICIES AND COURSE GUIDANCE

Students who have had formal training in world languages offered at Iowa State may obtain credit by passing appropriate examinations. Students with native fluency in languages taught at Iowa State may not enroll in or take the Exam for Credit in elementary or intermediate courses (1000 and 2000 level) in their native language. Students are considered to have native fluency if their ethnic first language as indicated on the matriculation form is the language in which they wish to enroll. Students are also considered to have native fluency if they have had substantial attendance at a secondary school or university where the language of instruction is the language in which they wish to enroll at ISU. Students with native fluency may be eligible to enroll in literature and civilization courses in their native language at the 3000 level or above; such students must also consult the department office to determine eligibility for advanced composition and conversation courses (3000 level and above). Students who have completed three or more years of high-school world language study may not enroll in or receive credit for 1010-1020 in those languages; credit may be obtained by passing the appropriate Exam for Credit or by completing an advanced sequence (2000-level or higher) in that language. Students who complete an approved sequence of courses in a single language at the 2000- or 3000-level (e.g., 2010 and 2020 or 3010 and 3020) with a grade of C- or higher are eligible to receive credit for 1010 and 1020 in that same language if they have not received credit for a 1010 or 1020 course in the language. Students who complete a 1020 course with a grade of C- or higher are eligible to receive credit for 1010 in that same language if they have not received credit for 1010 in the same language. Students should contact the department after completion of the course sequence to receive credit. Courses in the 1010-1020 level may not be taken on a remedial basis.

Students who have completed two years, but less than three years of a single high-school world language may not enroll in a 1010 course in that language. These students may enroll in either a 1020 course in that language, or in the case of Spanish, SPAN 0970 Accelerated Spanish Review. Before enrolling in either SPAN 0970 Accelerated Spanish Review or a 1020 language course, students are recommended to take the on-line placement test available at www.language.iastate.edu. After completing the online placement test, students who believe that they have extenuating circumstances may appeal to the Department of World Languages and Cultures in order to request enrollment in a 1010 language course.

SPAN 0970 Accelerated Spanish Review is designed for students who need additional work in the language at the first-year level (1010-1020) and are not planning to continue their language study at the second-year 2010-2020 level. Students who complete with a passing grade will have fulfilled the LAS world language requirement. Students who have completed SPAN 0970 Accelerated Spanish Review and wish to pursue further study in Spanish at the 2010-2020 level may enroll in 1020.

Students with disabilities who need to satisfy the world language requirement may direct questions to their academic advisor, the Department of World Languages and Cultures, or the Disability Resources Office.

Credit by examination in the Department of World Languages and Cultures for courses numbered 1010, 1020, 2010, and 2020 is available only to students who are not currently enrolled in the course. Credit by examination for other courses in the Department is not normally available.

Language and literature courses numbered 3000 and above are principally taught in the target language; courses numbered in the 2700s, 3700s, and 4700s are taught in English. For courses taught in English about Ancient Greek and Rome, see Classical Studies. Students may not take intermediate (2000 level) courses for credit after successfully completing any advanced (3000/4000 level) course, except those in the 3700 series or courses taught in English translation. Students who have successfully completed any course in the intermediate (2000 level) sequence may not take a lower-numbered course in that sequence for a grade.

STUDY ABROAD

The Department also offers faculty-led summer study abroad programs in Costa Rica, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, and Spain; and semester study abroad programs in Spain. Programs and exchanges in other areas of the world are offered through study abroad providers. Information concerning these programs can be obtained directly from the Department.

World Languages and Cultures B.A - French/German/Spanish Options

Freshman
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15003Humanities Choice3
Language 10104Language 10204
Elective3Humanities Choice3
Humanties Choice3Natural Science Choice2
Natural Science Choice3Social Science Choice3
 16 15
Sophomore
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Language 20104Language 20204
ENGL 25003Humanities Choice3
LIB 16001Social Science Choice3
Natural Science Choice3Elective3
Social Science Choice3Elective1-2
 LAS 20301
 14 15-16
Junior
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Language Choice - 3000 Level3Language Choice - 3000 Level3
Language Choice - 3000 Level3Language Choice - 3000 Level3
English Proficiency Requirement3Language Choice - 3000 Level3
Math Choice3Elective3
Elective3Elective3
 15 15
Senior
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Language Choice - 3000 or 4000 Level3Language Choice - 3000 or 4000 Level3
Language Choice - 4000 Level3Language Choice - 4000 Level3
Language Choice - 4000 Level3Language Choice - 4000 Level 3
Electives6Electives6
 15 15
Total Credits: 120-121

Graduate Programs

Graduate Minor in Spanish

The Department of World Languages and Cultures offers course work leading to a graduate minor in Spanish. The graduate minor is designed to provide an opportunity for graduate students to further their knowledge of Spanish to complement work in their major disciplines and provides formal recognition of student achievement and expertise.

Prerequisites

Graduate students who wish to minor in Spanish must have 4000-level proficiency in Spanish. When this is not the case, the student may be required to take a language course below the 4000-level, which would not count towards the graduate minor requirements.

Course Requirements

For the M.A. or M.S.: Three courses in Spanish. No more than three credits may be in courses numbered 4010, 4020, and 4030.

For the Ph.D.: Four courses in Spanish must include at least one three credit course at the 5000 level. No more than three credits may be in courses numbered 4010, 4020, or 4030.

At least two courses for the M.A. and the Ph.D. minors must be taken in residence at Iowa State University. Papers written for these courses are expected to have a content and depth commensurate with the graduate status of the student.

Expand all courses

Courses

Courses primarily for undergraduates:

Credits: 1. Contact Hours: Lecture 1.

Basics of grammar and vocabulary within the context of the cultures where Swahili is spoken. For students whose native language is not Swahili. Taught in Swahili. Offered on-line. Offered irregularly. (Typically Offered: Spring)

(Cross-listed with LING 1190).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Study of language diversity and the personal, social and political effects of diversity. Language families, attitudes toward language and language use, language and culture, multilingualism, foreign language learning, written codes, official languages, and language policy. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

(Cross-listed with RELIG 2050).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

An introduction to religious studies - the academic study of religion. Religions from around the world will be discussed, including their myths, rituals, beliefs, values, and social forms. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer)

(Cross-listed with ANTHR 2100).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

An interdisciplinary and chronological examination of Asian American immigration experiences from the early 19th century to the 21st century. Focus on how these immigration histories are accompanied by changing racial constructions. Discussion of racial stereotyping, the model minority myth, identity development, and efforts for social justice. Meets U.S. Cultures and Communities (formerly U.S. Diversity) Requirement.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

An interdisciplinary introduction to a world region in a state of rapid social and cultural transition. Discussion of the history, social and political institutions, arts, economy, agriculture, and environment of the new nations. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

(Cross-listed with RELIG 3520).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: ENGL 2500 or Permission of Instructor
Study of texts, practices, beliefs, historical development, and mutual influence of a variety of the religious traditions of India. Emphasis on Vedic religion and the diversity of traditions of Classical Hinduism; survey of Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, and South Asian Islamic traditions. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

(Cross-listed with RELIG 3580).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: ENGL 2500 or Permission of Instructor
An introduction to Islamic religion, culture, and society from its origins to the present. Topics include the Quran, the Prophet Muhammad, Islamic theology and philosophy, Islamic history, and Islam in America. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

(Cross-listed with RELIG 3590).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: ENGL 2500 or Permission of Instructor
A study of the Quran, the sacred text of Islam, with attention to its history, its major themes, and the diverse ways it is interpreted and applied. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.

Topics vary according to faculty interest. Author, genre or period study, women's writing, cinema, or cultural studies of a non-English speaking world culture or cultures. Readings, discussion, and written work in English. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.

Topics vary according to faculty interest. Author, genre or period study, women's writing, cinema, or cultural studies of a non-English speaking world culture or cultures. Readings, discussion, and written work in English. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.

Topics vary according to faculty interest. Author, genre or period study, women's writing, cinema, or cultural studies of a non-English speaking world culture or cultures. Readings, discussion, and written work in English. Meets International Perspectives Requirement.

(Cross-listed with ARABC 3710X).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Focus on the tales of the famous ‘1001 Arabian Nights’ book. Discussions of the narrative tools, supernatural elements, and the culture of the Medieval Middle East. Readings, discussions, and papers in English. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Fall, Spring)

(Dual-listed with EDUC 5170G/ WLC 5170G). (Cross-listed with EDUC 4170G).
Credits: 1-30. Repeatable.

Prereq: Admitted to the Educator Preparation Program
Evaluation of instruction, lesson planning, and teaching in world languages, secondary grades. (Typically Offered: Fall, Spring)

(Dual-listed with WLC 5840/ ME 5840/ MKT 5840). (Cross-listed with ME 4840/ MKT 4840).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: Junior or Senior Classification
Cross-disciplinary examination of the present and future impact of globalization with a focus on preparing students for leadership roles in diverse professional, social, and cultural contexts. Facilitate an understanding of the threats and opportunities inherent in the globalization process as they are perceived by practicing professionals and articulated in debates on globalization. Use of a digital forum for presenting and analyzing globalization issues by on-campus and off-campus specialists. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Fall)

(Cross-listed with EDUC 4860/ LING 4860).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: 25 credits in a World Language
Planning, implementation, and assessment of standards-based, student-centered, and thematic instruction in the elementary (K-8) classroom. Special emphasis on K-8 students' communicative skills, cultural knowledge, and content learning. (Typically Offered: Fall)

(Cross-listed with EDUC 4870/ LING 4870).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: 25 credits in a world language; Department Permission
Theories and principles of contemporary world language learning and teaching. Special emphasis on designing instruction and assessments for active learning. Admission to teacher education required. (Typically Offered: Fall)

(Cross-listed with INTST 4910).
Credits: 1. Contact Hours: Lecture 1.
Repeatable, maximum of 2 credits.

Prereq: Minimum of 3 credits of study abroad and/or internship abroad
Students returning from study abroad gain perspective on the personal, academic, and professional impact of their time spent abroad through readings and discussions. Students will be expected to make one presentation about the culture they experienced to an audience outside ISU. Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.

Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:

(Dual-listed with EDUC 4170G/ WLC 4170G). (Cross-listed with EDUC 5170G).
Credits: 1-30. Repeatable.

Prereq: Admitted to the Educator Preparation Program
Evaluation of instruction, lesson planning, and teaching in world languages, secondary grades. (Typically Offered: Fall, Spring)

(Dual-listed with WLC 4840/ ME 4840/ MKT 4840). (Cross-listed with ME 5840/ MKT 5840).
Credits: 3. Contact Hours: Lecture 3.

Prereq: Graduate classification
Cross-disciplinary examination of the present and future impact of globalization with a focus on preparing students for leadership roles in diverse professional, social, and cultural contexts. Facilitate an understanding of the threats and opportunities inherent in the globalization process as they are perceived by practicing professionals and articulated in debates on globalization. Use of a digital forum for presenting and analyzing globalization issues by on-campus and off-campus specialists. Meets International Perspectives Requirement. (Typically Offered: Fall)