Cross-Cultural Studies

Dates

Winter: January 4–January 20, 2027
Winter Registration: October 29, 2026–January 5, 2027

Spring Semester: January 25–May 19, 2027
Spring Registration: November 16, 2026–January 31, 2027

Register  Now

 

• EN 204 Contemporary U.S. Immigrant Literature and History
• EN 232 Perspectives on American Literature
• EN 235 African American Literature
• EN 245 Intercultural Communication
• EN 246 Interpersonal Communication
• EN 274 Voices of Civil Rights in American History
• EN 279 Women's Writing: 1900–Present
• HA 117 East Asian Art and Civilization
• HA 123 African Art and Civilization
• HA 126 Islamic Art and Civilization
• HA 219 African American Art
• HA 225 Art and Civilization of India
• HA 228 Oceanic Art and Civilization
• HA 229 Korean Art and Civilization
• HI 212 America at Night
• JA 223 Japanese Conversation II
• MC 202 Rome: The Making and Unmaking of the Eternal City
• MC 208 Paris: Imagined and Real
• MC 241 Italian American Cultural Studies
• MC 251 Italian Cinema
• MC 261 Latin American Cinema and Resistance
• MC 302 Faire La Cuisine: French Food and Identity
• MC 304 Introduction to Caribbean Studies
• MC 345 Food for Thought: Gastronomy in Italian Literature and Culture
• MC 351 From Modern to Contemporary Latin American Women Writers
• SO 313 Cultural Awareness, Design Responsibility, and the Law
• SO 374 Cross-Cultural Studies
• SO 376 Clothing and Society
• SO 378 Asian Global Popular Culture
• SO 379 Sociology of the Digital Era
• SO 386 Youth Subculture, Identity, and Fashion: A Sociological Perspective
• SS 304 Introduction to Caribbean Studies

EN 204
Contemporary U.S. Immigrant Literature and History
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This course on contemporary works from the mid-1900s to the present, focuses on history and narratives of U.S. immigrant experience and border crossing. Students consider how migration is reflected in literary and historical narratives among overlapping discourses of place, nation, family, gender roles, cultural hybridity, transnationalism, history, and ethnicity. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

EN 232
Perspectives on American Literature
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

Through readings from major authors and literary movements, students will examine the values and contradictions within American heritage, and its ideals and mythologies. Works from a diverse group of authors will be read and discussed for what they reflect and reveal about the evolving American experience and character. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

EN 235
African American Literature
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This course surveys African American literature from the colonial period to the present. Through reading and analyzing literature in various genres, and presenting their responses orally and in writing, students will identify the social, economic, and political forces that have influenced African American writers from the past to present day. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

EN 245
Intercultural Communication
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This course is designed to examine the relationship between culture and communication. Students will explore cultural patterns, social power dynamics, verbal and nonverbal communication, and cultural expressions in intercultural interactions. Course content will balance theory and application to examine inclusive and equitable intercultural interactions. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

EN 246
Interpersonal Communication
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

The course examines interpersonal communication processes that shape human interaction to help students learn to become more effective communicators. Students will learn about foundational interpersonal communication theories; explore application of these theories in personal, professional, and social contexts; and reflect on their own communication patterns. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

EN 274
Voices of Civil Rights in American History
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

An examination of the evolution of civil rights rhetoric in U.S. history. Students study civil rights speeches and texts to learn about political, social, and cultural events. Using traditional and contemporary rhetorical theory, civil rights movements and activism by Black/African Americans, women, and the LGBTQIA community are analyzed. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

EN 279
Women’s Writing: 1900–Present
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This course examines how women writers construct and analyze their identity through literature. The impact of gender, race, class, sexuality, culture, and other aspects of identity are considered by close reading of a selection of writings by women in the 20th and 21st centuries. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

HA 117
East Asian Art and Civilization
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This course introduces the major characteristics and artistic traditions of East Asian countries. Through lectures and surveys, students will examine the historical, religious, and social aspects of these civilizations. Consideration will be given to how East Asian countries respond to the arts of their neighbors, near and far, in comparison with other major civilizations. Emphasis is placed on art techniques and materials unique to East Asian art.

HA 123
African Art and Civilization
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This class introduces students to the art and visual cultures of sub-Saharan Africa, and its contexts within a continent with an exceptionally long and varied history of creativity and artistic production. The course analyzes a series of themes and corresponding case studies in historical framework, paying particular attention to formal analysis, social contexts, and the uses of art in Africa, past and present.

HA 126
Islamic Art and Civilization
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This course examines the art and civilization of the Islamic world from its origins to the present. Students are introduced to the religious, philosophical, and sociopolitical contexts that frame the formation of this multiethnic and geographically expansive visual culture.

HA 219
African American Art
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

Surveys diverse African traditions that have contributed to the rich fabric of American life since the 17th century. Students explore the continuities and disruptions of these traditions in art, and analyze concepts of race and racism, from the first moments of slavery through the contemporary era.

HA 225
Art and Civilization of India
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00

Introduces major characteristics of Indian civilization through a survey of its traditions of art and architecture. Illustrated lectures survey artistic tradition in relation to historical, religious, and social aspects of this civilization.

HA 228
Oceanic Art and Civilization
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

Students study the art and culture of Oceanic or Pacific Island cultures and civilizations, from the prehistoric era to colonialism to the present. Focus is placed on ceremonial/sacred and utilitarian objects in diverse media and architecture, and the contexts in which such objects were made.

HA 229
Korean Art and Civilization
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

This course is a survey of the art and civilization of Korea from its prehistoric origins to the early 21st century. We will examine how Korea created artistic traditions in response to regional and international trends, and how Korea adopted new artistic styles through relationships with China and Japan.

HI 212
America at Night
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00

Nights are different. Throughout American history, nighttime has been more fun, dangerous, and revealing of our unconscious. Learn about electric light and its historical consequences: 24-hour manufacturing, new leisure activities, changes in sexual and gender practices. Learn to help people suffering common afflictions of the night: depression, addiction, isolation.

JA 223
Japanese Conversation II
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00

Conversational ability in Japanese is further developed and refined by emphasizing interaction in real-world situations. Advanced functional and practical verbal communications are addressed along with a focus on Japanese culture. All new grammatical, syntactical, and phonetic skills covered in course lectures will be further developed in a multimedia environment. Prerequisite(s): JA 112 or equivalent

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MC 202
Rome: The Making and Unmaking of the Eternal City
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00

Perhaps more than any other city, Rome is caught between two seemingly incompatible realities: the vitality of a modern capital in constant expansion and the inertia of an ancient city that houses countless treasures of artistic, archeological, religious, and historical significance. In this course, we explore a variety of texts (ancient and modern) and films that have shaped the image of Rome over several millennia.

MC 208
Paris: Imagined and Real
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

In this course, we explore the space that Paris occupies in both the imagination and history. Paris is many things to many people, as evidenced in various genres of literature, painting, photography, and film portraying Europe’s most populous city. Students will be encouraged to complement and/or readjust their own perceptions of the City of Lights, based on readings, screenings, and forays into the works of literature and literary expression depicting and representative of Paris.

MC 241
Italian American Cultural Studies
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00
Online: In-state $765.00 Out-of-state $2,205.00

An examination of the cultural expression of Italian Americans from the late 19th century to today. Students analyze a wide variety of texts, including literature, theater, film, music, and the visual arts, and contextualize the history of Italian Americans within issues of ethnic identity in the United States.

MC 251
Italian Cinema
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00

This course is cross-listed with FI 246. Students survey the defining elements of Italian cinema from inception to contemporary Italian cinematic practices. Screenings include Neorealist masterpieces, cinema d’autore, commedia all’italiana, spaghetti Westerns, and contemporary Italian films.

MC 261
Latin American Cinema and Resistance
3.0 credits
In-state $720.00 Out-of-state $2,160.00

Students are introduced to Latin American cinema, considering the pivotal role of diverse forms of resistance, focusing on issues crucial to understanding the continent’s cinematic creation, including cultural identity, race, ethnicity, and gender. They develop a critical understanding of the evolution of Latin American film practices since the 1960s to current trends.

MC 302
Faire La Cuisine: French Food and Identity
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

This course examines the construction of France’s complicated culinary identity, the power of its influence, and its struggle to remain relevant. Students explore a variety of French and Francophone texts such as recipes, cookbooks, etiquette guides, menus, articles, restaurant reviews, works of fiction, autobiographies, plus documentaries and films. Taught in English.

MC 304
Introduction to Caribbean Studies
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

Introduction to Caribbean Studies introduces students to the Caribbean region and societies, with an emphasis on their history, sociology, politics, and cultures. Systematically reflecting on the relevance of the past to the present, students will explore current global trends and their impact on the Caribbean region and its diaspora.

MC 345
Food for Thought: Gastronomy in Italian Literature and Culture
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

An overview of Italian literature reveals how, through food, Italians have affirmed and defended their cultural heritage. Utilizing an analysis of influential literary texts, students examine the historical evolution of Italian cuisine from the excesses of the Roman table to today’s Slow Food movement. Taught in English. Prerequisite(s): EN 131 or equivalent

MC 351
From Modern to Contemporary Latin American Women Writers
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00

An introduction to Latin American literature written by women. Using the lens of sociopolitical realities in Latin America, students critically examine work created in diverse genres. Course is taught in English.

SO 313
Cultural Awareness, Design Responsibility, and the Law
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00

This course investigates the legal, financial, and social implications of cultural appropriation and the misuse of cultural property. Various indigenous and cultural groups, ranging from the Wixáritari people of Mexico to the hip-hop community, are examined. Students develop strategies of how to responsibly design and collaborate with different cultural groups. Formerly SS 313.

SO 374
Cross-Cultural Studies
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

This course provides conceptual and spractical knowledge of the cultures, economies, histories, and institutions of societies outside of Europe and the U.S., such as Japan and India. Students are introduced to the range of cultural differences and are prepared to adapt to these differences as they move into international arenas. Formerly SS 374.

SO 376
Clothing and Society
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

This course examines the development of dress, adornment, and appearance as a nonverbal mode of communication and explores the meaning of clothing and fashion in the U.S. Formerly SS 376.

SO 378
Asian Global Popular Culture
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

Students examine the global production, consumption, and reproduction of popular culture products in Asian countries, such as Korea, Japan, and India. Cultural products such as films, television sitcoms, pop music, comic books, and animation from South and East Asian societies are examined from historical and contemporary local and global perspectives and analyzed using social scientific tools and methodologies. Formerly SS 378.

SO 379
Sociology of the Digital Era
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

This course explores the impact of digital information and communication technologies (ICT’s) in everyday life. Students examine how digital ICT’s have transformed social relations, social structures, identity formation processes, and cultural, political, and economic practices. Formerly SS 379.

SO 386
Youth Subculture, Identity, and Fashion: A Sociological Perspective
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

This course explores youth subcultures, in relation to gender, race, and class identity. Students are introduced to various case studies of youth subcultures around the world, including goth, punk, and Lolita, and analyze how their values, norms, attitudes, and beliefs are reflected on their styles. Formerly SS 386.

SS 304
Introduction to Caribbean Studies
3.0 credits
In-state $897.00 Out-of-state $2,712.00
Online: In-state $942.00 Out-of-state $2,757.00

Introduction to Caribbean Studies introduces students to the Caribbean region and societies with an emphasis on their history, sociology, politics, and cultures. Systematically reflecting on the relevance of the past to the present, students will explore current global trends and their impact on the Caribbean region and its diaspora.

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