2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


Course Numbers

Courses numbered 100 are open to all students without prerequisites. Ordinarily, courses numbered 200, 300, and 400 have prerequisites and may not be taken by freshmen. Consult the individual department course listing for exceptions to this general policy.

Students are advised to check the course offerings before each advisement period.

The following courses may be offered during the 2018-2019 academic year—including Summer, Fall, Intersession, and/or Spring semesters/sessions/trimesters at both SJC Brooklyn and SJC Long Island, unless otherwise noted. Not all of these courses will be available at night or on weekends at SJC Brooklyn and SJC Long Island. Consult the semestral course offerings for more specific information, including the SJC Long Island Weekend College Trimester Program.

Online Courses: Academic departments offer courses in an online format. Check the semester course offerings for details.

 

 

Religious Studies

  
  • RS 151 - Contemporary Approaches to Morality


    A survey of the principal trends in moral theology, tracing these trends from their biblical roots to the new insights of modern scholars.

    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall, Spring
  
  • RS 154 - Issues of War and Peace


    This course will attempt to examine issues of war and peace from the perspective of the Judaeo-Christian tradition. It will endeavor to help students to become more involved with these very complex issues as members of religious communities and citizens of this country.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • RS 165 - Judaism


    A study of religion, philosophy, history and way of life of the Jewish people. A special emphasis is given to the concepts of Judaism as they are practiced and understood by contemporary members of the Jewish faith.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Offered when there is sufficient student demand.
  
  • RS 166 - Contemporary Catholicism


    A study of contemporary Catholicism which will connect the teaching and practice of the Church today to the teaching of Jesus and his first followers. Attention will be given to the sacramental nature of the Church, the vision of Vatican II, and the principles that guide Catholic moral teaching. The rich spiritual traditions of the Church and the issues that face the Church at the beginning of the new millennium will also be considered.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 168 - World Religions


    The religions of the world provide a great record of humanity’s quest for the sacred in thought, ritual and artistic expression. From the earliest times of pre-history down to the present day, people have expressed their deepest convictions about the universe, about the great issues of life, and about the sacred in worship and in creed. This course will attempt to study some of the varied expressions of humanity’s religious impulse through the various religious traditions that have developed in different cultures at different times.

    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall, Spring
  
  • RS 173 - Quest for God


    A study of humanity’s prayerful attempts to commune with God as these have developed in both the East and the West. Analysis of the common elements found in the prayer experience as well as the differences from diverse cultures, philosophies and the like.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • RS 174 - Social Justice and Human Development


    Through the study of Judaeo-Christian social thought, this course will provide a theological method for examining problems relative to social justice and human development.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 200 - The History of Christian Spirituality


    This course will survey some of the main figures and themes in the history of Christian spirituality. Readings from Augustine, The Cloud of Unknowing, The Imitation of Christ, Hildegaard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, John of the Cross, Theresa of Avila, Bonaventure, Francis de Sales, Dorothy Day, Thomas Merton, Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Oscar Romero will be used to illustrate the breadth, depth and diversity of Christian spiritualities. Previous Religious Studies course recommended.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 202 - Islam


    Through the use of primary texts, poetry, music, web sources and film, this course will introduce students to the religion and culture of Islam with a view toward understanding its role in the world today. Topics to be covered will include: the life and teachings of the prophet Muhammad, the content of the Qur’an, Islamic history, law, literature and philosophy and Islamic contributions to culture and civilization.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall, Spring
  
  • RS 203 - Faith on Film


    This course will explore theological and religious themes, symbols and motifs that are found in a variety of modern and classic films-both American and foreign. Cinematic techniques and the background of directors of the films chose will be incorporated into the course. With the help of guided readings, students will be required to analyze films viewed in class, give oral presentations and research the life and work of a director of their choice whose films have raised theological themes and existential questions.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 204 - Health Care Ethics


    The course will provide an introduction to and study of ethical positions regarding varied issues in the field of health care ethics. Basic principles derived from the various religious traditions in matters of health care will be explored. Clinical issues, such as therapies pertaining to reproduction, organ transplantation, genetic and stem cell research, decisions associated with the end of life and corporate issues will be considered.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall, Spring
  
  • RS 205 - Religion And Ecology


    The goal of this course is for students to attain an understanding of Earth, its living creatures, and its life-giving system as a matter of religious faith and ethical concern. The course will draw on biblical texts, focusing on the Jewish-Christian traditions and world religions as they contribute to valuing the natural world. In dialogue with official church statements and with essays from first and third world theologians, students will examine the connections between ecological justice and social justice.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    On demand
  
  • RS 206 - Religions of Abraham


    The three great monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have a common origin in the biblical story of Abraham and his descendants. This couse will involve an in-depth study of the origins and development of these three religions as well as the points of convergence and divergence. Their historical, cultural, and spiritual traditions will be examined along with their role in the current world situation. Readings of representative scriptures and field observations at local mosques and synagogues will be expected.

    3 hours a week 1 semester 3 credits.
    On demand
  
  • RS 207 - Theory/Practice of Nonviolence


    A study of violence and human nature. This course will explore the theory and practice of nonviolence from the perspective of diverse religious tradition as well as how conflicts at every level - from within our homes and communities to wars abroad - can be resolved nonviolently.
    The writings and lives of past and current peacemakers, including Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Dorothy Day, and many others will be considered.
     

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 221 - Khatib Course in Comparative Religion


    The purpose of this course will be to explore current topics in the field of theology and comparative religion. Topics will vary and will often be taught by the visiting Khatib Chair.
     

    1 semester. 3 credits.
  
  • RS 223 - The Gospel of John


    John’s Gospel offers a unique insight into Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God. This course will explore the gospel’s distinctive literary style and theological perspective. Through analysis and interpretation of the text, this course will aim to develop a theological understanding of the gospel that would enable students to explore its meaning and relevance for the early church and the world today.

    Prerequisite RS 123  
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 224 - History of Christianity I


    This course surveys the history of Christianity from its inception in the first century through the late middle ages. Topics will include the emergence of Christianity in the ancient world, early Christian debates over theology, the separation of the Church east and west, the crusades and medieval scholasticism. Special attention will be given to the important theological developments in Christian thought within their larger historical and social context.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • RS 225 - History of Christianity II


    This course surveys the history of Christianity from the Reformation to the modern era. The course will begin with reform of the Church, both Protestant and Catholic, in the 16th Century, and then explore the development of Christianity through the modern period of Western exploration and expansion. Special attention will be given to the important theological developments in christian thought within their larger historical and social context.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 280 - Actors, Mystics, Heretics, Pilgrims


    ENG 280  

    This course examines exciting intersections of religion with political, social, economic, and artistic developments in late medieval English culture. Persecution, corruption, repression: these negative forces overwhelmingly color popular impressions of medieval religion. They also represent extreme oversimplifications and a partial view of the history. This course offers a fuller picture of medieval English religion and culture. We will consider a range of experiences wherein the sacred and secular, the spiritual and the historical overlap and inform each other. For example, we will study vibrant lay-led religious theater, daring theological expression put forth by women mystics Julian of Norwich and Margery Kempe, the development and role of monasticism, and various pilgrimage sites with reasons why pilgrimage has been a longstanding religious practice. Our course will consider practice both distinct from and alongside belief, and it will face the difficult problems of anti-Semitism and anti-feminism to offer a clearer view of religion’s diverse consequences in late medieval England. We will read across disciplines to explore these matters. This course will meet once weekly in the Spring and include an intense period of study and travel around England while we are based in Oxford for two weeks in the summer.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 300 - Interdisciplinary Readings on Peace and Justice


    A course of selected readings, lectures, and discussions of the theories and practical applications of peacemaking. Views on the possibilities for peace and justice in the 21st century will be presented from various disciplines. Required for all Peace and Justice Studies minors.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 302 - Catholic Social Teaching


    The late 19th and 20th centuries produced a number of encyclicals with a rich body of teaching on peace and justice that is often overlooked. Through an in-depth study of these encyclicals, this course will examine how the church has responded to human rights issues, and the social, political, and economic realities which people throughout the world have experienced in modern times.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 303 - Symposium on Love


    The meaning and nature of love has long been a subject of human inquiry. It is something each of us ponders as well. Using authors such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Dante, Rumi, C.S. Lewis, Erich Fromm, Benedict XVI and John Paul II, as well as the Song of Songs and the New Testament, this course will explore a variety of perspectives on the meaning of human love. Romantic love, love as friendship, and altruistic love, as well as the understanding of God as love will be explored through film and a variety of theological and literary texts.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 305 - Religion and Science


    The course looks at historical and contemporary issues in the relationship between religious belief in God and scientific explanations of the world we inhabit. The nature of the contemporary debate between science and religion will be analyzed, exploring different models for how these two ways of explaining the world relate to one other. Special consideration is given to mutually beneficial interaction between science and religion, including the ethical and ecological problems facing our world.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 315 - Buddhism


    Siddhartha Gautama, better known as the Buddha, has been one of the most influential thinkers and wisdom figures in history of the world. He is the founder of Buddhism and the inspiration of its many derivative schools. This course will study the life and teachings of the Buddha, and in particular his teachings on enlightenment, compassion and mindfulness. Its experiential component will include visits to a Buddhist temple and the Rubin Museum as well a variety of practices of meditation and mindfulness. Different schools of Buddhism will be investigated with a special emphasis on the Tibetan and Zen traditions. 

    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • RS 352 - Latin America at the Crossroads


    (SPN 352 )

    Offered as an interdisciplinary course between Spanish and Religious Studies, this service-learning course explores the human condition and human rights issues in the Americas, both in the classroom and through hands-on experience. Topics include the legacies of the conquest and colonization of the Americas, indigenous movements, liberation theology, women’s rights, immigration, globalization, and trade. Students provide a minimum of 20 hours of service through agencies working with the Hispanic community in the New York area or in León, Nicaragua over Winter or Spring Break. Conducted in English and Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • RS 370 - Special Topics


    The purpose of this course will be to explore current topics in the field of theology and comparative religion.

    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • RS 410 - Senior Thesis


    A research paper that will complete the requirements for the Philosophy and Religious Studies major and demonstrate a student’s degree of mastery of the discipline of religious studies and ability to do serious research and competent writing in this field

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring

Russian

  
  • RUS 151 - Elementary Russian I


    A communicative approach to the fundamentals of the Russian language with emphasis on the alphabet, listening comprehension, speaking, and cultural awareness. This course, along with RUS 152 , is designed to enable students to communicate in Russian in everyday situations. For students who have no (or little) previous knowledge of Russian.

    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • RUS 152 - Elementary Russian II


    A continuation of RUS 151  with increasing emphasis on oral communication, grammatical structures, reading, writing, and appreciation of Russian culture. Open to students who have completed RUS 151  or its equivalent.

    1 semester 3 credits.

Sociology

  
  • SOC 100 - Introductory Sociology


    An introduction to sociology through a study of the basic concepts used in sociological analysis, particularly culture, types of social groups, processes of interaction, social class, population traits and trends.

    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    3 credits
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SOC 136 - Social Problems


    An introduction to sociology through an examination of what society considers to be social problems with a view toward showing how society produces these phenomena and to what extent they are solvable. Areas include: crime, mental illness, drug abuse, alcoholism, other forms of deviance, poverty, racism, conflicts over power.

    3 credits
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SOC 140 - Introduction to Social Work


    Scientific approach to social work as a profession within the structure of modern society; its principles and application of concepts. Techniques of observation, interviewing, elements of a social history, interpretation of case material. Methods of casework, group work, community organization; role of the social worker functioning in a variety of settings – as practitioner, as consultant to allied fields.

    This is a pre-professional course and may not be offered for core curriculum. Not open to Freshmen.
    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 212 - Elements of Social Science Research


    An overview of the basic methods of social science research, exploring the ways social scientists develop research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their findings. The course also includes an introduction to basic social science through the use of computer-based data sets for practical applications and analyses.

    Prerequisite: One social science 100-level core course.
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall and Spring. SJC Long Island Only.
  
  • SOC 220 - Sociology of Deviant Behavior


    An examination of the various sociological approaches to understanding and explaining crime, delinquency, deviance, drug usage, and other alleged aberrations in society and culture. Additionally, major case studies will be examined.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or SOC 136  
    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    3 credits
    Spring
  
  • SOC 230 - Social Organizations


    A theoretical approach to the study of various organizations; examination of organizational structure and processes, role of environment, and interorganizational relations.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136 
    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 232 - Sociology of the Paranormal


    A critical analysis of the methodology of parapsychology and other approaches to the study of psychic phenomena. The importance of the current interest in paranormal phenomena will be sociologically interpreted.

    3 credits
    Spring
  
  • SOC 237 - Inequality and Social Class


    Topics include: the values, life styles and ideologies of the various classes, the relationship of the classes to economic, political and educational institutions; changes in the class structure.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136  
    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 239 - Sociology of Religion


    A theoretical examination of the character and internal structure of religious institutions, and their relationship with other institutions of society.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136 
    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 241 - Experience In Social Work


    A planned field experience in a community social work agency; regular seminar meetings to evaluate, discuss and interpret this experience.

    Prerequisite: SOC 140  
    6-8 hours placement a week. 1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring. Insurance fee required.
  
  • SOC 242 - Field Experience In Applied Sociology


    Designed to offer experience in an approved organization whose activities require the communication and research skills used in sociology. The student is expected to work a minimum of 100 hours, keep a log, and complete a paper on the internship. A member of the sociology faculty will supervise the internship and will receive and consider the evaluations made by a representative of the site.

    Prerequisite: Departmental approval.
    3 credits
    Spring
  
  • SOC 243 - Criminology


    An examination of sociological concepts, theories, and perspectives regarding the study of crime. Topics include: the amounts and trends of crime; theoretical explanations; policies of crime control.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136  
    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum
    1 semester. 3 credits.
    Fall & Spring.
  
  • SOC 245 - Community and the Built Environment


    The study of American communities-urban, suburban, small town and rural. How communities develop, how planning is conducted, and the consequences of community decisions are addressed in the course. Classes will be devoted to social capital, community planning, segregation, suburban sprawl, urbanization, historic preservation of the built environment, and social issues. Emphasis on New York City and its suburbs.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SOC 246 - Sociology of Gender


    Introductory review of economic, social and cultural changes that have modified the traditional definitions of femininity and masculinity in Western societies. Discussions include: socialization, sexual behavior, marriage and alternative life styles.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136 
    3 credits
    Spring
  
  • SOC 247 - Hispanic Culture and Community


    An examination of the social development and functioning of the Hispanic community. Pertinent sociological themes for discussion include immigration, religion, politics, cultural development, the media, and the family. Special emphasis will be given to the Hispanic communities of the New York area.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136  
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SOC 249 - Race and Ethnicity


    An examination of race and ethnic relations in American society including assimilation, pluralism, minority status, group tensions, and the dynamics of prejudice, discrimination, racism, and immigration. The social construction of race is studied in the context of American race and ethnic relations. The experience of historic and contemporary ethnic groups throughout the country, with emphasis on New York, will be explored.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136  
    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 250 - Change in Developing Countries


    Theories of social change will be examined in light of economic, social, political, and cultural transformation which characterize industrializing and modern industrial societies. The focus will be on Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or SOC 136  
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SOC 251 - Social Psychology


    An analysis of the processes of social interaction and their effects upon the behavior and attitudes of individuals and groups.

    3 credits
  
  • SOC 252 - Environment and Society


    This course is an examination of the historical and contemporary issues related to society’s interaction with the natural environment.  Emphases will include the social aspects of environmental issues such as ecological degradation, movements to protect the environment, environmental justice, and sustainability.

    3 credits
  
  • SOC 254 - Sociology of Youth


    A social-psychological analysis of adolescence and the changing position of youth in society throughout history. The course examines both social structural conditions that have created adolescence as a position of uncertainty and vulnerability in modern society, as well as diverse subcultures which youth have created as collective responses to this position. Cross-cultural and generational comparisons of adolescence will also be examined.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136  
    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 256 - Sociology of Education


    An examination of the institution of education and the structure, processes, and interaction patterns within it. Sociological theories are presented to analyze the relationship between education and social change and other major social institutions in American society.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or SOC 136  
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SOC 265 - Popular Culture


    An application of the theory and methodology of sociology to a study of popular culture in America. Content will include an analysis of institutional and market processes. Emphasis will be placed on the decision making processes in the mass media, music, film, and television and their respective impact on society.

    Prerequisite SOC 100  or  SOC 136  
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SOC 270 - Sociology of Health


    An exploration of the social and cultural facets of health and illness, and the functioning of organizations involved in health care. The social behavior of health personnel and those who are the consumers of health care is stressed also.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136 
    3 credits
    Spring
  
  • SOC 275 - Poverty and Social Welfare


    This course examines how Americans, both in the distant and recent past, have viewed the poor and conceptualized the problem of poverty. It also investigates the relevant cultural, economic and political factors that help to explain U.S. social policy development. The roles that social activists, intellectuals, and social welfare specialists have played in framing poverty as a social problem and in raising awareness about poverty are also explored. Finally, the course investigates how poor people have worked collectively to respond to their circumstances and to the policies that have shaped their lives.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136  
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SOC 285 - Sociology of the Family


    The family as a social institution examined in both historical and contemporary contexts with special emphasis on the American family patterns.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or  SOC 136 
    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 310 - The Civil Rights Movement


    An in-depth study of the movement for civil rights from its origins to the present. The struggle for African American freedom and justice is presented in the context of local and national organizations. Seminar topics include the formation of the NAACP, the Brown decision and school integration, the Montgomery bus boycott, voter registration, Freedom Summer, black power, student activism and woman activists.

    Prerequisite: SOC 100  or SOC 136 
    3 credits
    Spring
  
  • SOC 312 - Seminar on American Family Issues


    Examination and analysis of current issues related to defining the boundaries of families and intimate relationships, status and role assignments within them, and their connection to the larger social environment. Organized as a seminar based on oral presentations and group discussions. A seminar paper will be required.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SOC 315 - Global:Understand/InterWorld


    This course examines the causes, processes, and consequences of globalization.  We will consider debates over what globalization is and means, how it is experienced by different groups and societies in the world, its effects on social institutions such as the polity and economy and on the environment, and struggles to shape the present and future impacts.  By the end of the course, you will have a better understanding of the global world we inhabit.

    3 credits
    Fall
  
  • SOC 347 - Sociological Theory


    The development and continuities of theoretical concepts and orientations in sociology against the intellectual and social backgrounds of their times. Differing schools of thought and representative works.

    Prerequisite: 15 Social Science credits or departmental approval
    3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SOC 348 - Research Methods


    This course will provide students with an understanding of the major components and basic techniques involved in research process, including how to structure a research project, and how to collect appropriate data. Students will have an opportunity to delve into the research venture first-hand by completing individual and group projects.

    Prerequisite: SOC 212  or departmental approval
    3 credits.
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SOC 350 - Applied Statistics


    ECO 350  

    An examination of statistical principles and techniques in the analysis of social science data. Application of computer software packages for statistical analysis will be emphasized.

    Prerequisite: SOC 212 , ECO 222  or permission of the department.
    3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SOC 359 - Independent Study in Sociology


    An opportunity for the student to do advanced work in a specialized area.

    Open to juniors and seniors in Sociology Department, with departmental approval.
    3 credits.
  
  • SOC 370 - Special Topics in Sociology


    This course will include sociological issues, developments or problems not covered in depth in the regular course offerings. It will enable students to take advantage of faculty expertise in diverse areas which are of interest to both faculty and students. With departmental approval.

    3 credits.
  
  • SOC 400 - Seminar in Sociology


    Intensive individual research of a topic of interest in the field of sociology, terminating in a written report; weekly group discussions.

    Prerequisite: SOC 348 , SOC 350 
    3 credits.
    Spring

Spanish

Courses that are not scheduled can be made available on sufficient demand.

Majors, Concentrates, and Minors may only take one of the following: SPN 211 , SPN 212 , or SPN 215 .

Survey courses offered each semester on a rotating schedule.

Advanced Courses

SPN 221 , SPN 222 , and SPN 260  are prerequisites for all courses 300-level and above conducted in Spanish.

  
  • SPN 110 - Introduction to Latino Studies


    This course will provide an introduction and overview of Latino issues such as immigration, transculturation, transnationalism, ethnic identity, language, education, and employment through the interdisciplinary study of social, cultural, political, economic and historical forces that have shaped the development of people of Latin American origin in the United States over the past 300 years. Conducted in English.

    No prerequisites.
    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 140 - Miracles and Massacres


    ENG 140  

    “Miracles and Massacres: Jews, Christians, and Muslims in Early English and Spanish Literature,” examines ethnic, racial and religious identity as represented in English and Spanish literature of the 12-16th centuries. In addition to enduring questions of conflict, diversity, and cross-cultural exchange, the course explores political and social relations among the religious communities particular to the medieval world and the Renaissance. The course includes an active online component and culminates with a study abroad experience in southern Spain.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SPN 151 - Elementary I


    A communicative approach to the fundamentals of the Spanish language with emphasis on listening comprehension, speaking, and cultural awareness. This course, along with SPN 152 , is designed to enable students to communicate in Spanish in everyday situations. For students who have no previous knowledge of Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SPN 152 - Elementary II


    A continuation of SPN 151  with increasing emphasis on oral communication, grammatical structures, reading, writing, and appreciation of Hispanic culture. Open to students who have completed SPN 151  or equivalent score on placement test.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SPN 161 - Spanish for Health Professionals


    A basic course which helps students develop conversational skills in Spanish while enabling them to utilize such skills in medical situations. It integrates grammar and structure with medical/technical vocabulary. Practical application of grammar and medical vocabulary is made possible by means of dialogues, mini-conversations, cued situations and role playing activities. Written skills and reading comprehension skills are also developed. (This course assumes no previous knowledge of the language.)

    This course is applicable to the liberal arts requirements of the curriculum.
    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 201 - Intermediate I


    This course seeks to develop intermediate-level communication skills in Spanish. Students will improve their proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing Spanish through interactive activities in the classroom and study of more advanced grammatical structures, vocabulary, and idiomatic expressions. In addition, students will acquire the linguistic and cultural insights which come with the study of a new language. Open to students who have completed SPN 152  or equivalent score on placement test.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SPN 202 - Intermediate II


    A continuation of SPN 201 . In this course, students will communicate in Spanish on a variety of topics from personal to literary to global. Knowledge of linguistic structures and cultural understanding will be deepened and expanded. Critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and cultural comparisons will be developed. Open to students who have completed SPN 201  or equivalent score on placement test.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SPN 210 - Field Experience in the Spanish Language


    An opportunity for students to improve further their verbal fluency and understanding of spoken Spanish. This course includes two hours per week of field experience at an approved location off campus and one hour per week in class. Open to students who have completed at least one course above SPN 202 ; requires permission of department.

    2 hours fieldwork 1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 211 - Readings in Spanish Literature and Culture


    Readings and discussions based on Spanish literary texts, as well as on essays and articles reflecting the contemporary culture of Spain. Focus on improvement of analytical and writing skills. Conducted in Spanish. Open to students who have completed SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring and Fall
  
  • SPN 212 - Readings in Latin American Literature and Culture


    Readings and discussions based on Latin American literary texts, as well as on essays and articles reflecting the contemporary culture of Latin America. Focus on improvement of analytical and writing skills. Conducted in Spanish. Open to students who have completed SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall and Spring
  
  • SPN 215 - Studies in Hispanic Literature and Art


    An introduction to related themes of literature and art from Spain and Latin America. Focus on development of reading and writing skills. Writers and artists include Gabriel García Márquez, Ana María Matute, Frida Kahlo, and Francisco de Goya. Conducted in Spanish. Open to students who have completed SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring and Fall
  
  • SPN 220 - Advanced Grammar for Heritage Speakers


    A study of grammatical categories and constructions in Spanish, in some cases explicitly drawing contrasts with English. This course deepens bilingual or first-language speakers’ awareness of variation in Spanish, beyond standard or so-called correct varieties. Furthermore, the course provides some introduction to linguistic analysis and helps prospective teachers describe Spanish grammar. Open to heritage speakers who have completed SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test.  Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite: SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test.
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall or Spring
  
  • SPN 221 - Advanced Grammar


    Study of Spanish grammar, vocabulary, and idioms on an advanced level. Readings and discussions of Spanish and Latin American texts. Focus on development of written and spoken Spanish. Open to students who have completed SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test. Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite: SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test.
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall or Spring
  
  • SPN 222 - Advanced Composition and Conversation


    Focus on improvement of writing, oral, and analytical skills. Open to students who have completed SPN 220  or   SPN 221  or with special permission. Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite:  SPN 220  or   SPN 221  or with special permission.
    1 semester. 3 credits.
    Winter, Spring, Summer.
  
  • SPN 223 - Conversation


    A course intended to help the student acquire a greater degree of fluency in the spoken language. Open to students who have completed SPN 202  or equivalent score on placement test. Not open to native speakers of Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SPN 233 - Civilization and Culture of Spain


    An introduction to the civilization and culture of the Spanish people. Topics include geography, history, literature, art, music, film and current events of Spain. Conducted in Spanish. Open to students who have completed SPN 211 , SPN 212 SPN 215  , SPN 220  or SPN 221 ,

    Prerequisite: SPN 211 , SPN 212 SPN 215  , SPN 220  or SPN 221 ,
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall or Spring
  
  • SPN 234 - Civilization and Culture Of Latin America


    An introduction to the civilization and culture of the peoples of Latin America. Topics include geography, history, literature, art, music, film, and current events of the countries of Hispanic America. Conducted in Spanish. Open to students who have completed SPN 211 , SPN 212  , SPN 215  , SPN 220  or SPN 221 .

    Prerequisite: SPN 211 , SPN 212  , SPN 215  , SPN 220  or SPN 221 .
    1 semester. 3 credits.
    Fall. Spring SJC Brooklyn.
  
  • SPN 260 - Introduction to Hispanic Literature


    Readings from Spanish and Latin American literature; literary analysis in the four basic genres: narrative, poetry, drama, and the essay; study of figurative language. Open to those students who have completed SPN 220  or SPN 221   and SPN 222    Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite: SPN 220  or SPN 221   and SPN 222  
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall or Spring.
  
  • SPN 261 - Survey of Spanish Literature


    A study of representative literature of Spain from its origins to the end of the Golden Age. Open to students who have completed SPN 220  or SPN 221   and SPN 222 . Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite: SPN 220  or SPN 221   and SPN 222 .
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SPN 262 - Survey Of Spanish Literature II


    A continuation of SPN 261 . The study of the literature of Spain from the eighteenth century to the twenty-first. Open to students who have completed SPN 220  or SPN 221   and SPN 222 . Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite: SPN 220  or SPN 221   and SPN 222 .
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SPN 263 - Survey of Latin American Literature


    A study of the literature of Latin America from pre-Columbian times through the twenty-first century. Conducted in Spanish. Open to students who have completed SPN 220  or SPN 221  and SPN 222 .

    Prerequisite: SPN 220  or SPN 221  and SPN 222 .
    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SPN 303 - Gabriel García Márquez


    A study of the work of one of the most important authors of the 20th Century, Gabriel García Márquez. This course analyzes his masterwork Cien años de soledad (One Hundred Years of Solitude) in addition to other writings, with consideration for his different periods, styles, and genres, as well as the concept of magic realism. Conducted in Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 304 - Contemporary Spanish Drama


    Study of Spanish drama from the 20th century to the present. Conducted in Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SPN 305 - Contemporary Latin American Drama


    Study of Latin American drama from the 20th century to the present. Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite: SPN 260  and below.
    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 310 - Field Experience in Bilingual and Second Language Education


    An introduction to current theory and practice in the field of second language and bilingual education. Topics include: theories of second language acquisition, approaches to communicative language teaching, special needs of second language students, and language immersion programs. Students will be placed in a bilingual, an English as a second language, or a Spanish language classroom. Open to students who have completed two courses above SPN 202 . Permission of the department is also required.

    2 hours fieldwork 1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SPN 315 - The Hispanic Poetic Tradition


    A study of the Hispanic poetic tradition, since its origins in the medieval Iberian Peninsula to its latest developments in the Americas, including Latino poetry in the United States. Course places emphasis on the specificity of poetic language as opposed to other literary genres. Close readings, discussions, translations, and creative activities sensitize students to the use of poetry as a medium of personal and social expression throughout history. Conducted in Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 330 - U.S. Latino Literature and Culture


    Focuses on the growing body of literature written by U.S. Latinos in recent years. Explores Latino cultural identity through the analysis of novels, stories, performance pieces, poetry, music, and film. Conducted in English.

    Prerequisite: SPN 260  or ENG 201 .
    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 340 - Contemporary Hispanic Cinema


    This course presents a selection of some of the most culturally relevant contemporary films from the Hispanic world. This course is interdisciplinary and cross-cultural, with an emphasis on the socio-economic and political issues that are raised in each film. Discussions of the films will be informed by readings of scholarly articles relating to the topics raised and film reviews. Conducted in Spanish. Not open to Freshmen.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SPN 350 - Hispanic Women Writers


    A study of the contributions of Latin American, Latina, and Spanish women authors to contemporary Hispanic literature. Readings and discussions of essays, plays, poetry, short stories, and testimonies explore current social, cultural, and political issues by contrasting different voices and points of view. Conducted in Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SPN 351 - Reading Resistencia: Social Movements in Latin America


    An in-depth study of how ordinary citizens, artists and intellectuals challenged their governments from the late 19th century to the present day. The course examines how grassroots mobilization and cultural production (literature, film, art, songs, etc.) have shaped social and political movements in Latin America. Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite:SPN 260  and below.
    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 352 - Latin America at the Crossroads


    (RS 352 )

    Offered as an interdisciplinary course between Spanish and Religious Studies, this service-learning course explores the human condition and human rights issues in the Americas, both in the classroom and through hands-on experience. Topics include the legacies of the conquest and colonization of the Americas, indigenous movements, liberation theology, women’s rights, immigration, globalization, and trade. Students provide a minimum of 20 hours of service through agencies working with the Hispanic community in the New York area or in León, Nicaragua over Winter or Spring Break. Conducted in English and Spanish.

    1 hour of service. 1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 353 - From Macondo to Mcondo: Visions of Modern Latin America


    A study of different cultural forms of portraying modern Latin America, from the magical town of Macondo in García Márquez’ Cien años de soledad to the hyper-globalized world of McOndo described by contemporary Chilean writer Alberto Fuguet. The course analyzes texts by Latin American writers from the Boom to the present, which refer back to and question canonical readings of the identity of the region made throughout history. Conducted in Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 355 - Beyond Walls: The U.S.-Mexico Borderlands


    This course explores the various representations of “el México de afuera” (Mexicans living abroad), the differences and interconnectedness between metaphorical and material borders, and the effects of globalization as it pertains to the United States-Mexico border region. Through analysis of works by Chicano, Anglo-American, and Mexican writers and filmmakers, the course analyzes themes and realities such as migration towards the northern Mexican border and immigration to the US, transnationalism, trade and globalization. Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite:SPN 260  and below.
    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 356 - Deconstructing the Caribbean


    This course explores the various factors that have contributed to the formation of Hispanic Caribbean subjectivities and identities. With a focus on Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, the course questions stereotyped notions of Caribbeanness, through a postcolonial approach to their literature and culture. Conducted in Spanish.

    Prerequisite:SPN 260  and below.
    1 semester 3 credits.
  
  • SPN 357 - The Cuban Revolution: Reinvention of a Dream


    A study of the Cuban Revolution through the analysis of its aesthetic products, from 1959 to the present, in the context of international relations between Cuba, the US and the former socialist countries of Eastern Europe. Readings and discussions analyze the cultural and literary heritage that has shaped post-revolutionary Cuba, keeping in mind its complexities, ambiguities and contradictions. The course does not support a particular political agenda but seeks to understand the intersections between art and politics from an interdisciplinary perspective.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Fall
  
  • SPN 358 - The City of Borges


    Through the gaze of Jorge Luis Borges and other Argentine writers, filmmakers, and intellectuals, this course analyzes the two forms in which we can interpret the idea of the city, or better yet, the cities of Borges. On the one hand, the course examines texts by Borges and others, in which the theme is his neighborhood, Palermo, and his city, Buenos Aires. On the other, it considers what Borges tells us about his “political” cities: Buenos Aires, Latin America, and the world. With a Global Studies component in Buenos Aires. Conducted in Spanish.

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
  
  • SPN 370 - Special Topics in Hispanic Literature and Culture


    This course will include Latin American and Spanish writers, as well as aspects of Hispanic culture not covered in depth in the regular course offerings. It will enable students to take advantage of faculty expertise in diverse areas which are of interest to both faculty and students. Possible topics include: “Revolutions: Cuba and Nicaragua,” “Reading the Andes,” and “Latin American Popular Culture.”

    1 semester 3 credits.
    Spring
 

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