IUS COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

SPAN 101 — ELEMENTARY SPANISH LANGUAGE AND INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH CIVILIZATION (June Intensive Session , 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A basic introduction course. Ten hours a week are devoted to elementary language study, with explanations in English where necessary. The remaining five hours per week are an introduction to Spanish civilization up to the 20th Century. The language component of the course develops listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. The civilization component, which is taught in English, covers topics such as: Roman Spain, Sefarad, Spain’s Golden Age, Spanish Gothic and Baroque Art.

 

SPAN 102 — ELEMENTARY SPANISH LANGUAGE AND INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH CIVILIZATION (July Intensive Session , 3 Credits,  45 Contact Hours.)

A continuation of Spanish 101. The language component, which comprises ten hours a week, further develops the four language skills introduced in Spanish 101. The civilization component of five hour per week is again taught in English and focuses on 20th Century Spain. Topics include —the Civil War, the Franco years, return to Democracy, Spanish women’s issues, ETA terrorism—and may be presented by expert guest speakers.

 

SPAN 203 — INTERMEDIATE SPANISH CONVERSATION AND GRAMMAR (June Intensive Session , 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An intensive study of Spanish oral expression aimed at building vocabulary and developing conversational skills. The course includes readings, discussions of Spanish culture, writing exercises and a basic grammar review.

 

SPAN 204 — INTERMEDIATE SPANISH CONVERSATION AND GRAMMAR
(July Intensive Session , 3 Credits , 45 Contact Hours.)

A continuation of Spanish 203. This course is an intensive study of Spanish oral expression aimed at building vocabulary and developing conversational skills. The course includes readings, discussions of Spanish culture, writing exercises and a basic grammar review.

 

SPAN 210-211 INTENSIVE INTERMEDIATE SPANISH LANGUAGE
(Fall & Spring Semesters, 8 credits, 120 contact hours.)

An intensive study of Spanish whose aim is to provide the students with the tools necessary for correct communication in Spanish both orally and in writing. Special attention is given to the subjunctive mood, preterit-imperfect and "ser-estar" contrasts as well as other areas of particular difficulty to English speaking students.

 

SPAN 253 INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH CIVILIZATION
(Fall & Spring Semesters, 3 credits, 45 contact hours.)

This course is an introduction to Peninsular Spanish culture and civilization. It will give students a general view of Spanish history from its origins in prehistory to the present time. Important periods of Spanish history such as Roman Spain, Muslim Spain, Spain during the reign of the Hapsburg dynasty, the Civil War or Spain's transition to Democracy will be covered. The course will be supplemented with visits and excursions to sites linked to the subjects studied.

 

SPAN 254 INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH LITERATURE
(Fall & Spring Semesters, 3 credits, 45 contact hours.)

An introduction to Spanish Peninsular Literature which will bring students in contact with the most significant authors and works of Spanish Literature starting with the Middle Ages and going through to current works and authors such as Antonio Gala

 

SPAN 303 — ADVANCED SPANISH CONVERSATION AND GRAMMAR
(June Intensive Session , 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An intensive study of oral Spanish aimed at improving conversational skills. With an emphasis on everyday applied usage of the language, the course also includes a review of grammar points troublesome to speakers of English.

"The group dinners were a great way to experience each other, and the constant activities listed on the bulletin board kept us busy and 'into' Spanish culture. I thought the academics were excellent. I found a good balance between working hard and being able to take advantage of things outside of the school." 
Anne Elizabeth Hall • Muhlenberg College

 

SPAN 304 — ADVANCED SPANISH CONVERSATION AND GRAMMAR
(July Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A continuation of Spanish 303. This course offers an intensive study of oral Spanish aimed at improving conversational skills. With emphasis on everyday applied usage of the language, the course also includes a review of grammar points troublesome to speakers of English.

 

SPAN310 — ADVANCED SPANISH GRAMMAR (Fall & Spring Semesters, 4 Credits, 60 Contact Hours. Winter Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A thorough, intensive study of Spanish grammar, with special attention to the review of persistent grammar problems for speakers of English. The course also provides extensive vocabulary-building practice through written exercises and periodic compositions. Course work includes readings and practice in oral expression.

 

SPAN 315 — ADVANCED SPANISH CONVERSATION (Fall Semester, 4 Credits, 60 Contact Hours. Winter Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact hours.)

An in-depth course designed to improve students' conversational skills, with emphasis on everyday applied usage of the language. Conversational skills are developed with attention given to pronunciation, acquisition and proper use of idiomatic expressions, and a review of grammar points. Practice includes guided and free presentations, written exercises and periodic compositions.

 

SPAN 320 — ADVANCED SPANISH COMPOSITION
(Spring Semester, 4 Credits, 60 Contact Hours.)

An intense practice course with emphasis on writing compositions around topics drawn from contemporary issues. The course also offers a review of grammar points, vocabulary acquisition and correct use of idioms. In addition to writing, exercises include reading and practice in oral expression.

 

SPAN 325 — BUSINESS SPANISH
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A study of the Spanish language as used in Spanish business practices. Exercises stressing business vocabulary include oral and written communication, business letter writing and document generation. The course also examines different aspects of the business world, explaining the framework within which the specialized terminology and expressions are used.

 

SPAN 329 — WORKSHOP IN TRANSLATION
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

 An introduction to the problems, techniques and challenges in translating from one language to another. Using a variety of sources such as literature, prose, poetry, medical and legal texts, and commercial documents, students practice translating material from Spanish into English and from English into Spanish.

"I loved living with my family and experiencing how they live and what kinds of food they ate. It was interesting to see and hear about customs and their opinions."  
Krista Smith • Ursinus College

 

SPAN 330 — CIVILIZATION OF SPAIN, I
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A chronological survey of the history and culture of Spain from the earliest times to the end of the reign of Felipe II. In addition to following historical events during this period, the course also examines intellectual, economic, social, and artistic developments. Learning opportunities include field trips to museums, important historical and cultural sites in Seville, and if scheduling permits, the Roman ruins at Italica.

 

SPAN 331 — CIVILIZATION OF SPAIN, II
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A continuation of Spanish 330. This course continues the chronological survey of the history and culture of Spain, covering the period from 1600 to the present. In addition to historical events, the course examines intellectual, economic, social, and artistic developments during this period. Learning opportunities include field trips to museums and important historical and cultural sites in Seville.

 

HIST 332 — ROMAN SPAIN, AN ARCHEOLOGICAL APPROACH
(June Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A chronological study of Roman Spain from 218 BC to the 5th Century AD. Topics include Rome's conquest of the Iberian peninsula; the Romanization of the peninsula; and life in Hispania. Learning opportunities include field trips to study archeological evidence of this period of Spanish history.

 

SPAN 333 — SPANISH WOMEN WRITERS
(June Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An introduction to the most important works of significant Spanish women writers. Students examine the literary works of such authors as St. Teresa de Jesús, Rosalía de Castro, Pardo Bazán, Laforet, Matute, Rosa Montero and Soledad Puértolas. They also consider the lives of the authors and the social and cultural context in which the works were produced.

 

HIST 334 — AL-ANDALUS
(July Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours. )

This course presents a chronological study of Muslim Spain from 711 to 1492, covering its historical, political, social, economic, and artistic evolution. An important part of the class work consists of field trips to study the presence and importance of this civilization in present Spanish society.

 

SPAN 335 — CIVILIZATION OF LATIN AMERICAN, I
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours. )

This course presents a chronological survey of the history and culture of the Spanish-speaking nations of Latin America, from pre-Columbian days to the end of the 18th Century. In addition to following historical events during this period the course also A examines intellectual, economic, social, and artistic developments.

“The Instituto's academic program was just right. It wasn't too hard or too easy; it gave me plenty of time to do the things I wanted to do but also challenged me with new and interesting concepts."
Cristin De Francesco • Muhlenberg College

 

SPAN 336 — CIVILIZATION OF LATIN AMERICA, II
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A continuation of Spanish 335. This course continues the chronological survey of the history and culture of the Spanish-speaking nations of Latin America, from the beginning of the 19th Century to the present. In addition to historical events, the course examines intellectual, economic, social, and artistic developments during this period.

 

SPAN 340 — SURVEY OF SPANISH LITERATURE, I
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A survey of representative Spanish authors, works and literary movements from the earliest manifestations to the end of the Golden Age. Through readings and discussions, the course follows the development of Spanish literature and its relation to the history and culture of the period studied. (Early works of Spanish literature are studied in modernized versions).

 

SPAN 341 — SURVEY OF SPANISH LITERATURE, II
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A continuation of Spanish 340. Through readings and discussions, this course examines representative authors, works and literary movements from the 18th Century to the present. It follows the development of Spanish literature and its relation to the history and culture of the period studied.

 

SPAN 344 — SPANISH WOMEN'S ISSUES
(July Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An examination (in English) of the changes women have undergone in Spanish culture. Beginning with general research on women's studies, the course moves on to examine the situation of women in Spanish society. Some of the topics covered will be: from traditional to modern times, access of women to political power, the Catholic Church and the education of Spanish women, women in the media, Spanish women today—from emancipation to liberation.

 

SPAN 370 — SPANISH POETRY: LATEST TRENDS
(Winter Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An in-depth exploration of the most recent poetry produced by Spanish poets. This course examines the relationship between ideas, form and content in the works studied. When possible, active poets present and discuss their work with the class.

"The staff was very helpful and helped with any problems that might have come up. I liked the weekly trips to the bull fights and flamenco. They were a lot of fun and a good way for the group to get together."
Jacquelyn Marie Wolf • Lynchburg College

 

EDUC 385 — TEACHING MODERN LANGUAGES
(Fall & Spring Semesters, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An analysis of first and second language acquisition, including the problems surrounding past and present language teaching methods and techniques. Some of the topics included are: an introduction to language, psychological basis governing language is used, the nature of human language.

"The Instituto's academic program is what I expected and more. I never realized how much l'd learn in only 4 months. The small class sizes and being taught in Spanish is the best for learning the language." Erika Strobel • Gettysburg College

 

EDUC 390 — CURRENT EVENTS
(Fall & Spring Semesters, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An interactive conversation course. Students discuss topics and issues reported in the Spanish media - television, radio and print. The course draws from all significant aspects of Spanish society: politics, art, the social scene, the economy and sports. The discussions are supported by oral presentations and written work.

 

ECON 395 — SPANISH ECONOMY
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An overview of the Spanish economic system. This course explores the economic relations and expectations of Spain within the framework of the European Union. As students study the Spanish economic structure within the context of present Spanish society, they are also introduced to Spanish business—organization, management, control, and ownership issues. Other topics include labor forces and work-regulating legislation as established by the Spanish constitution.

 

SPAN 444 — LITERATURE OF THE GOLDEN AGE
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An in-depth course covering the poetry, drama and prose written during the Golden Age of Spanish literature. While critically examining literary works, students also study the lives of their authors and consider the historical, social, cultural and philosophical times in which each work was produced.

 

SPAN 450 — SPANISH LITERATURE OF THE 20TH CENTURY
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An in-depth study of the major authors, themes, and movements of Spanish poetry, drama, essay, and prose from the Generation of 1898 to the present. Students consider how social, political and philosophical conditions affected, and are reflected in the fiction of this period.

 

SPAN 453 — 20TH CENTURY ANDALUSIAN POETS
(June Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An in-depth study of the works of 20th Century Andalusian poets. Students examine the relationship between ideas, form and content in the works studied. When possible, active Andalusian poets present and discuss their work with the class.

"I learned more in three weeks than I think I would have in three months at any other school. I found it very challenging and interesting.
Ethan Watson • Valley High School (Albuquerque, NM)

 

THEA 455 — MODERN SPANISH THEATER
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An in-depth study of Spanish theater of the 20th Century. Students explore the historical, social and intellectual backgrounds of the authors, works and movements of this period. When scheduling permits, students also attend performances in Seville of modern Spanish theater.

 

SPAN 460 — SPECIAL TOPIC: ANDALUSIAN AUTHOR
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An in-depth study of a single, outstanding 20th Century Andalusian author. Students examine the life, times, and literary production of the chosen author. The author to be studied in each session is selected at the end of the preceding Spring Semester from a list including, but not limited to, the following: Juan Ramón Jiménez, García Lorca, Alberti, Cernuda, Aleixandre, Pemán, Francisco Ayala, Antonio Gala and Antonio Muñoz Molina.

 

ART 475 — SPANISH ART IN ANDALUSIA
(Fall & Spring Semesters, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A survey of Spanish art, with emphasis on Andalusian artists and the artistic movements and styles most evident in Andalusia. While the course focuses on the development of architecture, painting and sculpture, it also covers popular artistic expression such as ceramics, tile work and furniture. Learning opportunities include field trips to museums and other artistically important monuments in Seville.

 

HIST 480 — HISTORY OF MODERN SPAIN
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A study of 19th and 20th Century Spanish history with special focus on the following topics:
Events leading to the creation of the Second Republic, The tensions that escalated into the Civil War, The Franco Era, Present democratic Spain.

 

HIST 482 — SEFARAD
(July Intensive Session, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A study of Jewish Spain, covering its historical, political, social, economic, and artistic importance. Special attention is given to the "conversos" after 1492. Learning opportunities include visits to the Synagogue of Cordoba and the Jewish quarters of Seville and Cordoba.

 

POLl 483 — SPANISH POLITICAL SCENE
(Spring Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

An in-depth study of the basic elements that structure modern Spanish political organization. The period covered runs from the Second Republic to the present, with special attention given to the political decisions aimed at Spanish integration into NATO, EEC and ED. The study also analyzes the Constitution of 1978, the current AutonomÍas and, in particular, the political forces acting in Andalusia today.

 

SOC 485 — SPANISH SOCIETY
(Fall Semester, 3 Credits, 45 Contact Hours.)

A thorough study of contemporary Spanish society. This course focuses on the different social components that make up the Spanish social fabric: family, youth, women, migrations, delinquency, minorities, and urbanization. Special attention is given to Andalusian society and the differences present within that culture as contrasted with other regions of Spain.

 

HPE — SPANISH REGIONAL DANCE
(Fall & Spring Semesters, 1 Credit.)

This course teaches students to dance “Sevillanas”, a popular form of dance deeply engrained in Seville and Andalusia social fabric.

Why IUS | Academic | Resources | Application | Images | Contact
| IUS Site Map |