Learning Outcomes
Students will:
- understand basic facts, principles, key figures, and events related to African American experience in American society, plus recognize the significant contributions of African Americans in the United States and abroad;
- become familiar with the foundations of the discipline of African American studies and the development of the field, specifically conceptual ideas that shape the academic study of African American life;
- acquire the tools for contextualizing and understanding the intersectionality of race, class, gender, and/or sexual orientation in an effort to identify relevant challenges and solve human problems related to the African American community;
- learn to critically analyze cultural issues shaping the lives and conditions of African Americans through curriculum, community service, and service learning as they confirm the value of diversity in the 21st century; and
- be prepared for potential careers or postbaccalaureate work in African American studies and related fields through the development of skills in critical thinking, oral and written communication, and research.
The Bachelor of Arts with a major in African American studies requires a minimum of 120 s.h., including at least 30 s.h. of work for the major. Students must maintain a g.p.a. of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major. They also must complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core. Transfer credit is evaluated individually and is limited to a maximum of 9 s.h.
The B.A. with a major in African American studies requires the following coursework.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Introductory Courses | 6 | |
| African American Studies Core | 18 | |
| Electives | 6 | |
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Introductory Courses
Students are required to complete the following introductory courses.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AFAM:1020/AMST:1030 | Introduction to African American Culture | 3 |
| AFAM:1030 | Introduction to African American Society | 3 |
Introduction to African American Culture (AFAM:1020) examines the evolution of cultural experiences and developments in the United States and the African diaspora (e.g. the Harlem Renaissance, graphic novels, blues, hip hop, soul, and gospel). The course includes readings in literature, music, film, comics, anime, popular culture events, plus the visual and performing arts.
Introduction to African American Society (AFAM:1030) examines the construction of social and historical institutions in the United States and the African diaspora (e.g., Black church, Black family, Black traditions, and social movements). The course includes readings in education, sports, political science, religion, health, criminal justice, history, sociology, and other disciplines.
African American Studies Core
In addition to the two required introductory courses, all students must complete at least two courses from each of the three topical areas below (minimum of 18 s.h.). Other courses may be approved for the topical areas; consult with an African American studies advisor.
History, Religion, and the Diaspora
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Two of these: | ||
| AFAM:1250/RELS:1350 | Introduction to African American Religions | 3 |
| AFAM:1275/HIST:1275 | Black Chicago: The Past, Present, and Future of an American Community | 3 |
| AFAM:2266/HIST:2266 | Civil War and Emancipation | 3 |
| AFAM:2267/HIST:2267 | African American History to 1877: From Slave Cabin to Senate Floor | 3 |
| AFAM:2268/HIST:2268 | African American History Since the Civil War | 3 |
| AFAM:3245/RELS:3745 | Twentieth-Century African American Religion: Civil Rights to Hip Hop | 3 |
| AFAM:3260/HIST:3260 | Violence in Black America | 3 |
| AFAM:3275/HIST:3275 | History of Slavery in the U.S.A. | 3-4 |
| AFAM:3555/ENGL:3555 | Topics in African Cinema | 3 |
| AFAM:3758/HIST:3758 | The Ancient African Past | 3 |
| AFAM:3760/HIST:3760 | The Making of Modern Africa | 3 |
| AFAM:3900 | Topics in African American Studies (when topic is history, religion, or the diaspora) | arr. |
| AFAM:7205/GWSS:7205/HIST:7205 | Gender and Race in Nineteenth-Century United States | arr. |
| EPLS:5126 | Twentieth-Century Educational Movements | 2-3 |
Literature and Performing Arts
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Two of these: | ||
| AFAM:1130 | The History of African American Film | 3 |
| AFAM:1240/MUS:1740 | The Art of Listening to Jazz | 3 |
| AFAM:1241/MUS:1741 | The Soundtrack of Black America | 3 |
| AFAM:2014/MUS:2014 | Giants of Jazz: Miles, Trane, and Duke | 3 |
| AFAM:2465/ENGL:2465 | Selected African American Authors | 3 |
| AFAM:2700/AMST:2700 | The Black Image in Sequential Art: Comics, Graphic Novels, and Anime | 3 |
| AFAM:3459/ENGL:3459 | African American Literature Before 1900 | 3 |
| AFAM:3460/ENGL:3460 | African American Literature After 1900 | 3 |
| AFAM:3461/ENGL:3461 | Twenty-First Century African American Literature | 3 |
| AFAM:3462/ENGL:3462/THTR:3462 | African American Drama | 3 |
| AFAM:3465/ENGL:3465 | African American Autobiography | 3 |
| AFAM:3900 | Topics in African American Studies (when topic is literature or performing arts) | arr. |
Media, Politics, and Social Institutions
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Two of these: | ||
| AFAM:1630/SOC:1630 | The Racial Wealth Gap: Black Debt, White Debt | 3 |
| AFAM:2064/SOC:2064 | Racial Inequity and the Experiences of African American Families in the U.S. | 3 |
| AFAM:2070/COMM:2069 | Black Television Culture | 3 |
| AFAM:2072/COMM:2072 | African American Popular Culture | 3 |
| AFAM:2076/COMM:2076 | Race, Ethnicity, and Media | 3 |
| AFAM:2079/SPST:2079 | Race and Ethnicity in Sport | 3 |
| AFAM:2500 | Black Culture and Experience: Contemporary Issues | 3 |
| AFAM:2770/SOC:2770 | Environmental Racism: Black and White Community Politics | 3 |
| AFAM:3053/AMST:3053/HIST:3253 | The Civil Rights Movement | 3 |
| AFAM:3100/AMST:3100/SOC:3100 | Critical Race Theory: Culture, Power, and Society | 3 |
| AFAM:3110/SOC:3110 | Race, Organizations, and Workplace | 3 |
| AFAM:3130/AMST:3130 | Black American Film | 3 |
| AFAM:3500/HIST:3160/RELS:3808 | Malcolm X, King, and Human Rights | 3 |
| AFAM:3600/AMST:3600 | Digitizing Blackness | 3 |
| AFAM:3900 | Topics in African American Studies (when topic is media, politics, or social institutions) | arr. |
| AFAM:3925/JMC:3165 | African Americans and the Media | 3 |
Electives
Students also must take two elective courses (minimum of 6 s.h.) selected from the three topical areas listed above. With the approval of an African American studies advisor, students may substitute relevant courses offered by other departments for one or both electives; the substituted courses may not be cross-listed with African American studies. Students must gain the advisor's approval before enrolling in a substitute course.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Two electives selected from the three topical areas above, or approved substitutes | 6 | |
Language Requirement
The language requirement for the African American studies major is the same as the World Languages requirement of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core. Students are encouraged, but not required, to take African language courses (Swahili is currently offered) or Spanish language courses to fulfill the World Languages requirement.
Honors in the Major
Students majoring in African American studies have the opportunity to graduate with honors in the major. Honors in the major offers students the opportunity to pursue special interests and individual in-depth research.
Honors students must complete all required coursework for the major while maintaining a University of Iowa g.p.a. of at least 3.33 and a g.p.a. of at least 3.33 for courses in the major (30 s.h.). Students must register for up to 6 s.h. of AFAM:4990 Honors Project which enhances a student's ability to complete honors projects under the guidance of the supervising faculty member. Students enroll in AFAM:4990 with the approval of an African American studies faculty member, who will supervise the course. They may count up to 6 s.h. earned in AFAM:4990 toward the 30 s.h. required for the major.
Under the guidance of the African American studies faculty member, an honors student defines a research project (thesis) using primary, secondary, or archival sources. Students submit a project proposal by the end of their junior year. They complete a thesis under the guidance of a supervising faculty member and present the results as a senior essay to a committee of three, including the supervising African American studies faculty member, one other African American studies faculty member, and the African American studies chair. A student's committee may choose to hear an oral defense of the honors thesis, usually during the student's last semester.
University of Iowa Honors Program
In addition to honors in the major, students have opportunities for honors study and activities through membership in the University of Iowa Honors Program. Visit Honors at Iowa to learn about the University's honors program.
Membership in the UI Honors Program is not required to earn honors in the African American studies major.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core requirements provide students with a broad foundation of knowledge and a focused practice of transferable skills necessary for a lifetime of learning.
GE CLAS Core courses are particularly valuable for students making the transition into the University of Iowa. They help students understand the academic expectations of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences while providing the knowledge and skills needed for more advanced work in the major.
All students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences who wish to earn an undergraduate degree—Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), or Bachelor of Music (B.M.)—must complete the requirements of the GE CLAS Core.
GE CLAS Core Areas and Requirements
The GE CLAS Core has 11 required areas, grouped into three categories. Students must fulfill the requirements in each GE CLAS Core area. The requirements below are for students who entered the University of Iowa during Summer 2017 or after. Students who entered during a previous semester are held to different requirements as indicated on a student's degree audit.
Communication and Literacy:
- Rhetoric: a minimum of 4 s.h.
- World Languages: required credit varies by language (see "World Languages" below)
- Interpretation of Literature: a minimum of 3 s.h.
Natural, Quantitative, and Social Sciences:
- Natural Sciences: a minimum of 7 s.h.; must include one lab
- Quantitative or Formal Reasoning: a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Social Sciences: a minimum of 3 s.h.
Culture, Society, and the Arts:
- Diversity and Inclusion: a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Historical Perspectives: a minimum of 3 s.h.
- International and Global Issues: a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts: a minimum of 3 s.h.
- Values and Culture: a minimum of 3 s.h.
Students may count transfer credit and/or credit by exam toward some GE CLAS Core requirements. See CLAS Core Policies for details regarding use of transfer credit, credit by exam, and other policies for how GE CLAS Core requirements may be fulfilled.
Communication and Literacy
Rhetoric
Rhetoric courses develop speaking, writing, listening, and critical reading skills and build competence in research, analysis, and argumentation.
All entering first-year students are required to complete RHET:1030 Rhetoric (4-5 s.h.). Because rhetorical skills lay the foundation for further study at the University, most students register for RHET:1030 during their first year at Iowa. Students in some majors, such as English or journalism and mass communication, enroll in RHET:1030 during their first semester.
Students who must enroll in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses as determined by their English proficiency evaluation must complete all ESL courses before they may register for RHET:1030 Rhetoric.
Students who have transfer credit in composition, speech, and argumentation but have not been granted an A.A. degree must complete the equivalent of RHET:1030 Rhetoric and often must take RHET:1040 Writing and Reading or RHET:1060 Speaking and Reading in addition to their transfer courses in composition and/or speech.
Each entering student's degree audit shows the course(s) that must be completed in order to fulfill the Rhetoric requirement.
The following courses are approved for the Rhetoric area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| RHET:1030 | Rhetoric | 4-5 |
| RHET:1040 | Writing and Reading | 3 |
| RHET:1060 | Speaking and Reading | 3 |
Transfer of Credit for Rhetoric
Transfer students who have been granted an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree from an Iowa community college, Waldorf College in Iowa, or Black Hawk College in Illinois have satisfied the Rhetoric requirement.
Transfer credit for students without an A.A. degree is evaluated as follows:
- transfer students who have completed composition I, composition II, and speech at another institution have satisfied the GE CLAS Core Rhetoric requirement of RHET:1030 Rhetoric;
- transfer students who have completed only composition I must complete RHET:1030 Rhetoric at the University of Iowa;
- transfer students who have completed composition I and speech must complete RHET:1040 Writing and Reading at the University of Iowa;
- transfer students who have completed only speech must complete RHET:1040 Writing and Reading at the University of Iowa;
- transfer students who have completed composition I and II or only composition II must complete RHET:1060 Speaking and Reading at the University of Iowa;
- for transfer students who have completed any other course at another institution that may be equivalent to RHET:1030 Rhetoric, the University of Iowa Office of Admissions examines the content of the course and decides on equivalency based on the content of that course, conferring with the Department of Rhetoric on the correct equivalency, if necessary.
Interpretation of Literature
Courses in the Interpretation of Literature area focus on the major genres of literature (short and long fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama), improving students' abilities to read and analyze a variety of texts. Small group discussions in these courses challenge students to think critically, to share insights, and to listen thoughtfully to the arguments of others.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Interpretation of Literature area. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CLSA:1200 | Interpretation of Ancient Literature (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| ENGL:1200 | The Interpretation of Literature | 3 |
| FREN:1005 | Texts and Contexts: French-Speaking World | 3 |
| FREN:1007 | Nature/Ecology French Philosophy and Fiction | 3 |
| WLLC:1510/ASIA:1510 | Ghost Stories and Tales of the Weird in Premodern Chinese Literature | 3 |
World Languages
GE CLAS Core courses in World Languages provide the practice of important communication skills in a second language as well as the knowledge of the cultures in which the language is spoken. This in-depth study allows students to better understand how languages as a whole function, encouraging students to learn more about their own first language, including how it creates both inclusion and diversity. To fulfill the GE CLAS Core requirement in World Languages, students may choose one of the following options:
complete four years of a single world language in high school; or
achieve the fourth level of proficiency in a world language by completing the appropriate sequence of courses offered at the University of Iowa; or
achieve the fourth level of proficiency by completing appropriate courses at another college or university or through approved study abroad courses; or
achieve an equivalent score on a related Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or other approved college-level examination accepted by the University of Iowa and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (see Credit By Exam Options on the Office of Admissions website); or
earn an equivalent score on both a UI written placement test and on a UI oral proficiency exam in a language taught at the University of Iowa (see World Languages Placement Test (WLPT) on the New Student Services website); or
earn an equivalent score on a proficiency exam in a language that is not taught at the University of Iowa (see Proficiency Examinations for Languages Not Taught at UI on the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences website).
A fourth level of proficiency is equivalent to the successful completion of an intermediate II language course (or of a second-year second semester course, for example) as taught at the University of Iowa. Depending on a student's placement test results and the language taken, a student may need to take four semesters of a language, starting with a beginning course and ending with a second semester intermediate course. Other students may be able to start elsewhere in the language sequence and complete the GE World Language requirement by taking two or three courses. See "World Languages Placement Tests" under Placement Tests on the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences website.
Semester hours earned for these courses vary by language. Students should be sure to take the placement test for the language of interest and should be aware of the course sequence required to fulfill the GE requirement in World Languages for that particular language.
Once the World Languages requirement is completed, a student may earn up to an additional 8 s.h. of college credit while studying a world language. See Furthering Language Incentive Program (FLIP) on the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences website.
Students may use the following language course sequences to fulfill the World Languages requirement. To avoid duplication or regression, consult the appropriate language department before registering for courses.
American Sign Language
Courses in American Sign Language (ASL) are offered by the American Sign Language Program. The following sequence fulfills the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ASL:1001 | American Sign Language I | 5 |
| ASL:1002 | American Sign Language II | 5 |
| ASL:2001 | American Sign Language III | 5 |
| ASL:2002 | American Sign Language IV | 5 |
Students with previous knowledge of American Sign Language should consult the ASL program for placement.
Arabic
Courses in Arabic are offered by the Department of French and Italian. The following sequence fulfills the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ARAB:1001 | Elementary Modern Standard Arabic I | 5 |
| ARAB:1002 | Elementary Modern Standard Arabic II | 5 |
| ARAB:2001 | Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic I | 5 |
| ARAB:2002 | Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic II | 5 |
Students with previous knowledge of Arabic should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Chinese
Courses in Chinese are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. For students without previous knowledge of Chinese, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CHIN:1111 | First-Year Chinese: First Semester | 5 |
| CHIN:1112 | First-Year Chinese: Second Semester | 5 |
| CHIN:2101 | Second-Year Chinese: First Semester | 5 |
| CHIN:2102 | Second-Year Chinese: Second Semester | 5 |
Students may use varied combinations of Chinese language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Heritage learners and students who have studied Chinese abroad may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting CHIN:2103 Accelerated Second-Year Chinese: First Semester and CHIN:2104 Accelerated Second-Year Chinese: Second Semester for CHIN:2101 and CHIN:2102. Consult the department for more information.
French
Courses in French are offered by the Department of French and Italian. For students without previous knowledge of French, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| FREN:1001 | Elementary French I | 4-5 |
| FREN:1002 | Elementary French II | 4-5 |
| FREN:2001 | Intermediate French I | 5 |
| FREN:2002 | Intermediate French II | 5 |
Students may use varied combinations of French language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of French may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting FREN:1010 First-Year French Review for FREN:1001 and FREN:1002 in the sequence above. Some students may be evaluated as ready for FREN:2001 or FREN:2002. Consult the department for appropriate placement.
German
Courses in German are offered by the Department of German. For students without previous knowledge of German, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| GRMN:1001 | Elementary German I | 4 |
| GRMN:1002 | Elementary German II | 4 |
| GRMN:2001 | Intermediate German I | 4 |
| GRMN:2002 | Intermediate German II | 4 |
Students may use varied combinations of German language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of German may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting GRMN:1010 First-Year German Review for GRMN:1001 and GRMN:1002 in the sequence above. Some students may be evaluated as ready for GRMN:2001 or GRMN:2002. Consult the department for appropriate placement.
The department also offers accelerated intensive courses, GRMN:1020 Intensive Elementary German and GRMN:2020 Intensive Intermediate German, which may be appropriate for students with strong language learning abilities or experience. The intensive courses may be combined with nonintensive courses to create other sequences that may be used to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Consult the department to identify an appropriate course sequence.
Greek
Courses in Greek are offered by the Department of Classics. Students without previous knowledge of Greek should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CLSG:1001 | Classical and New Testament Greek I | 3-5 |
| CLSG:1002 | Classical and New Testament Greek II | 3-5 |
| CLSG:2001 | Second-Year Greek I | 3 |
| CLSG:2002 | Second-Year Greek II | 3 |
Students with previous knowledge of Greek should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Italian
Courses in Italian are offered by the Department of French and Italian. Students without previous knowledge of Italian should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ITAL:1101 | Elementary Italian I | 5 |
| ITAL:1102 | Elementary Italian II | 5 |
| ITAL:2203 | Intermediate Italian I | 4 |
| ITAL:2204 | Intermediate Italian II | 4 |
Students with strong language learning abilities or a background in another Romance language may be able to complete the requirement by substituting ITAL:3002 Intensive Elementary Italian for ITAL:1101 and ITAL:1102 in the sequence above. Consult the department for appropriate placement.
Japanese
Courses in Japanese are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. For students without previous knowledge of Japanese, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| JPNS:1001 | First-Year Japanese: First Semester | 5 |
| JPNS:1002 | First-Year Japanese: Second Semester | 5 |
| JPNS:2001 | Second-Year Japanese: First Semester | 5 |
| JPNS:2002 | Second-Year Japanese: Second Semester | 5 |
Students may use varied combinations of Japanese language courses approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of Japanese should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Korean
Courses in Korean are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. For students without previous knowledge of Korean, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| KORE:1101 | First-Year Korean: First Semester | 4 |
| KORE:1102 | First-Year Korean: Second Semester | 4 |
| KORE:2101 | Second-Year Korean: First Semester | 4 |
| KORE:2102 | Second-Year Korean: Second Semester | 4 |
Students with previous knowledge of Korean should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Latin
Courses in Latin are offered by the Department of Classics. Students without previous knowledge of Latin should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence. Students must take both CLSL:2001 and CLSL:2002 in order to fulfill the World Languages requirement. These courses require a similar knowledge of Latin, but one focuses on poetry and the other on prose. Other world languages permit a student to complete the last courses in the sequence to meet the GE CLAS Core requirement since the final course is more difficult than the previous ones. This is not true with the Latin sequence, and thus, both courses must be successfully completed.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CLSL:1001 | Elementary Latin I | 3-5 |
| CLSL:1002 | Elementary Latin II | 3-5 |
| CLSL:2001 | World of Cicero | 3 |
| CLSL:2002 | Golden Age of Roman Poetry | 3 |
Students with previous knowledge of Latin should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Portuguese
Courses in Portuguese are offered by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese. Two sequences in Portuguese are approved to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. All courses are open to entering first-year students.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| PORT:2000 | Accelerated Elementary Portuguese | 5 |
| PORT:2500 | Accelerated Intermediate Portuguese | 5 |
Students may also substitute PORT:2010 Elementary Portuguese I and PORT:2015 Elementary Portuguese II for PORT:2000 in the sequence above.
Students with previous knowledge of Portuguese should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Russian
Courses in Russian are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. Students without previous knowledge of Russian should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| RUSS:1111 | First-Year Russian I | 5 |
| RUSS:1112 | First-Year Russian II | 5 |
| RUSS:2111 | Second-Year Russian I | 4 |
| RUSS:2112 | Second-Year Russian II | 4 |
Students with previous knowledge of Russian should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Sanskrit
Courses in Sanskrit are offered by the Department of Asian and Slavic Languages and Literatures. Students without previous knowledge of Sanskrit should fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement with the following sequence. Each of these courses is open to entering first-year students.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| SOAS:2901/CLSA:2901 | First-Year Sanskrit: First Semester | 4 |
| SOAS:2902/CLSA:2902 | First-Year Sanskrit: Second Semester | 4 |
| SOAS:3901/CLSA:3901 | Second-Year Sanskrit: First Semester | 3 |
| SOAS:3902/CLSA:3902 | Second-Year Sanskrit: Second Semester | 3 |
Students with previous knowledge of Sanskrit should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Spanish
Courses in Spanish are offered by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese. For students without previous knowledge of Spanish, the department recommends the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| SPAN:1001 | Elementary Spanish I | 5 |
| SPAN:1002 | Elementary Spanish II | 5 |
| SPAN:1501 | Intermediate Spanish I | 5 |
| SPAN:1502 | Intermediate Spanish II | 5 |
Students may use varied combinations of Spanish language courses to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Those with previous knowledge of Spanish may be able to fulfill the requirement by substituting SPAN:1003 Elementary Spanish Review for SPAN:1001 and SPAN:1002 in the sequence above.
The summer course SPAN:1004 Accelerated Elementary Spanish, which combines SPAN:1001 and SPAN:1002, may be appropriate for some students.
The accelerated course SPAN:1503 Accelerated Intermediate Spanish, which combines SPAN:1501 and SPAN:1502, may be appropriate for some students.
The accelerated course SPAN:1505 Accelerated Intermediate Spanish for Heritage Speakers may be appropriate for other students.
Pappajohn Education Center students may use the following sequence to fulfill the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| CLAS:1002 | Elementary Spanish I | 4 |
| CLAS:1003 | Elementary Spanish II | 4 |
| CLAS:1501 | Intermediate Spanish I | 3 |
| CLAS:1502 | Intermediate Spanish II | 3 |
Students with previous knowledge of Spanish should take the language placement test in Spanish to help determine proper placement.
Swahili
Courses in Swahili are offered by the Department of French and Italian. The following sequence fulfills the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Each of these courses is open to entering first-year students.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| SWAH:1001 | Elementary Swahili I | 4 |
| SWAH:1002 | Elementary Swahili II | 4 |
| SWAH:2001 | Intermediate Swahili I | 4 |
| SWAH:2002 | Intermediate Swahili II | 4 |
Students with previous knowledge of Swahili should consult the department for appropriate placement.
Other Course Sequences
A student who successfully completes a four-semester world language sequence that has not been approved for the GE CLAS Core may have the sequence substituted for a proficiency test to fulfill the GE CLAS Core requirement.
Students who complete a world language sequence this way should notify the department that offers the sequence; the department will contact Graduation Analysis in the Office of the Registrar, which will update a student's degree audit to show fulfillment of the World Languages requirement.
Natural, Quantitative, and Social Sciences
Natural Sciences
Courses in the Natural Sciences area explore the scope and major concepts of a scientific discipline. Students learn the attitudes and practices of scientific investigators: logic, precision, experimentation, tentativeness, and objectivity. In courses with a laboratory component, students gain experience in the methods of scientific inquiry.
All students must complete at least 7 s.h. of coursework in the Natural Sciences area, including at least one natural science lab component. The following courses are approved for the area; courses with a lab component are noted "(lab)."
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ANTH:1301 | Human Origins | 3 |
| ASTR:1060/BIOL:1060/EES:1060 | Big Ideas: Origins of the Universe, Earth, and Life | 3 |
| ASTR:1070 | Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| ASTR:1079 | Introductory Astronomy Laboratory (lab) | 1 |
| ASTR:1080 | Exploration of the Solar System (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| ASTR:1085 | Citizen Astronomy | 3 |
| ASTR:1091 | Life in the Universe | 3 |
| ASTR:1771 | Introductory Astronomy I: Basic Astrophysics and Planetary Astronomy (lab) | 4 |
| ASTR:1772 | Introductory Astronomy II: Stellar, Galactic, and Extragalactic Astronomy (lab) | 4 |
| BIOL:1140 | Human Biology (lab) | 4 |
| BIOL:1141 | Introductory Animal Biology (lab) | 4 |
| BIOL:1251 | How the Brain Works (and Why it Doesn't) | 3 |
| BIOL:1260 | Plants and Human Affairs | 2-3 |
| BIOL:1261 | Introduction to Botany (lab) | 4 |
| BIOL:1311/ANTH:1310 | Human Genetics in the Twenty-First Century | 3 |
| BIOL:1370 | Understanding Evolution (formerly Ecology and Evolution) | 3 |
| BIOL:1411 | Foundations of Biology (lab) | 4 |
| BIOL:1412 | Diversity of Form and Function (lab) | 4 |
| CHEM:1050 | Chemistry of Our World | 3 |
| CHEM:1060 | Technology and Society Laboratory (lab) | 1 |
| CHEM:1070 | General Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHEM:1080 | General Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHEM:1100 | Chemistry in Industry and the Economy | 3 |
| CHEM:1110 | Principles of Chemistry I (lab) | 4 |
| CHEM:1120 | Principles of Chemistry II (lab) | 4 |
| CHEM:1160 | Principles of Chemistry Lab (lab) | 2 |
| CHEM:1180 | Chemical Science I | 3 |
| CHEM:1190 | Chemical Science II | 3 |
| CHEM:1200 | Chemical Science Laboratory (lab) | 2 |
| EES:1030/CEE:1030 | Introduction to Earth Science (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| EES:1031/CEE:1031 | Introduction to Earth Science Laboratory (lab; students must have previously completed EES:1030/CEE:1030 without the lab) | 1 |
| EES:1040 | Evolution and the History of Life (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| EES:1050 | Introduction to Geology (lab) | 4 |
| EES:1061/ANTH:1061/ASTR:1061 | Big Ideas: Evolution of Life on Earth and the Search for Life in the Universe (lab) | 4 |
| EES:1070 | Age of Dinosaurs (lab) | 4 |
| EES:1080/ENVS:1080 | Introduction to Environmental Science (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.; not for students who have taken EES:1085 or ENVS:1085) | 3-4 |
| EES:1085/ENVS:1085 | Fundamentals of Environmental Science (lab; not for students who have taken EES:1080 or ENVS:1080) | 4 |
| EES:1081/ENVS:1081 | Introduction to Environmental Sciences Laboratory (lab) | 1 |
| EES:1290 | Energy and the Environment | 3 |
| EES:1400 | Natural Disasters | 3 |
| GEOG:1020 | The Global Environment | 3 |
| GEOG:1021 | The Global Environment Lab (lab) | 1 |
| HHP:1100 | Human Anatomy | 3 |
| HHP:1110 | Human Anatomy Laboratory (lab; GE status effective spring 2021) | 1 |
| HHP:1150 | Human Anatomy Lecture with Lab (lab; GE status effective spring 2021) | 4 |
| HHP:1300 | Fundamentals of Human Physiology | 3 |
| HHP:2310 | Nutrition and Health | 3 |
| HONR:1640 | Honors Seminar in Natural Sciences | 3 |
| MICR:1006 | Small Wonders: Microbes in Our Lives | 3 |
| PCOL:2220 | Drug Use and Abuse | 3 |
| PHYS:1100 | From Quarks to Quasars (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| PHYS:1200 | Physics of Everyday Experience | 3 |
| PHYS:1400 | Basic Physics (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| PHYS:1409 | Basic Physics Lab (lab) | 1 |
| PHYS:1410 | Physics of Sound (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| PHYS:1511 | College Physics I (lab) | 4 |
| PHYS:1512 | College Physics II (lab) | 4 |
| PHYS:1611 | Introductory Physics I (lab) | 4 |
| PHYS:1612 | Introductory Physics II (with lab 4 s.h.; without lab 3 s.h.) | 3-4 |
| PHYS:1619 | Introductory Physics II Lab (lab) | 1 |
| PHYS:1701 | Physics I (lab) | 4 |
| PHYS:1702 | Physics II (lab) | 4 |
Quantitative or Formal Reasoning
Courses in the Quantitative or Formal Reasoning area help develop analytical skills through the practice of quantitative or formal symbolic reasoning. Courses focus on presentation and evaluation of evidence and argument; understanding the use and misuse of data; and organization of information in quantitative or other formal symbolic systems, including those used in computer science, linguistics, mathematics, philosophy, and statistics.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Quantitative or Formal Reasoning area. Students also may fulfill this GE CLAS Core requirement by completing a course that lists an approved GE CLAS Core course as a prerequisite. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| COMM:1117 | Theory and Practice of Argument | 4 |
| CPH:1600 | Public Health Science: Inquiry and Investigation in Public Health | 3 |
| CS:1020 | Principles of Computing | 3 |
| CS:1110 | Introduction to Computer Science | 3 |
| CS:1210 | Computer Science I: Fundamentals | 4 |
| LING:1050 | Language and Formal Reasoning | 3 |
| MATH:1020 | Elementary Functions | 4 |
| MATH:1120 | Logic of Arithmetic | 4 |
| MATH:1250 | Mathematics for Arts and Humanities (GE status effective fall 2020) | 3 |
| MATH:1260 | PokeMath: The Mathematics of Pokemon Go (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| MATH:1340 | Mathematics for Business | 4 |
| MATH:1350 | Quantitative Reasoning for Business (GE status effective fall 2020) | 4 |
| MATH:1380 | Calculus and Matrix Algebra for Business | 4 |
| MATH:1440 | Mathematics for the Biological Sciences | 4 |
| MATH:1460 | Calculus for the Biological Sciences | 4 |
| MATH:1550 | Engineering Mathematics I: Single Variable Calculus | 4 |
| MATH:1850 | Calculus I | 4 |
| PHIL:1636 | Principles of Reasoning: Argument and Debate | 3 |
| POLI:1050/RELS:1050 | Big Ideas: Introduction to Information, Society, and Culture | 3 |
| POLI:1700 | Introduction to Political Analysis | 3 |
| PSY:2811 | Research Methods and Data Analysis in Psychology I | 3 |
| STAT:1010 | Statistics and Society | 3 |
| STAT:1020/PSQF:1020 | Elementary Statistics and Inference | 3 |
| STAT:1030 | Statistics for Business | 4 |
| STAT:2010 | Statistical Methods and Computing | 3 |
Social Sciences
Courses in the Social Sciences area focus on human behavior and the institutions and social systems that shape and are shaped by that behavior. Courses provide an overview of one or more social science disciplines, their theories, and their methods.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Social Sciences area. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ANTH:1101/IS:1101 | Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTH:1401 | Language, Culture, and Communication | 3 |
| ANTH:2100 | Anthropology and Contemporary World Problems | 3 |
| ANTH:2136 | Urban Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTH:2261 | Human Impacts on the Environment | 3 |
| ASP:1800/CSD:1800/NURS:1800/SSW:1800/TR:1800 | Aging Matters: Introduction to Gerontology | 3 |
| COMM:1170 | Communication Theory in Everyday Life | 3 |
| COMM:1174 | Media and Society | 3 |
| CPH:1400 | Fundamentals of Public Health | 3 |
| CRIM:1410 | Introduction to Criminology | 3 |
| CSD:3117/LING:3117 | Psychology of Language | 3 |
| CSD:3118/LING:3118 | Language Acquisition | 1-3 |
| ECON:1100 | Principles of Microeconomics | 4 |
| ECON:1200 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 4 |
| GEOG:1070 | Contemporary Environmental Issues | 3 |
| GEOG:1090 | Globalization and Geographic Diversity | 3 |
| GEOG:2110/GHS:2110 | Seven Billion and Counting: Introduction to Population Dynamics | 3 |
| GEOG:2910 | The Global Economy | 3 |
| HIST:1219/SOC:1219 | Big Ideas: Equality, Opportunity, and Public Policy in America | 3 |
| HONR:1660 | Honors Seminar in Social Sciences | 3 |
| JMC:1100 | Media Uses and Effects | 3 |
| LING:1010 | Language and Society | 3 |
| LING:1060 | Languages of the World | 3 |
| MUSM:3001/ANTH:3001/EDTL:3001/SIED:3001 | Introduction to Museum Studies | 3 |
| POLI:1100 | Introduction to American Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1200 | Introduction to Political Behavior | 3 |
| POLI:1300 | Introduction to Political Thought and Action | 3 |
| POLI:1400 | Introduction to Comparative Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1401 | Introduction to Russian Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1445 | Introduction to Asian Politics: China | 3 |
| POLI:1449 | Introduction to European Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1500 | Introduction to International Relations | 3 |
| POLI:1501 | Introduction to American Foreign Policy | 3 |
| POLI:1600 | Introduction to Political Communication | 3 |
| POLI:2415/LAS:2415 | Latin American Politics | 3 |
| PSQF:2115 | Introduction to Counseling Psychology | 3 |
| PSY:1001 | Elementary Psychology | 3 |
| PSY:2301 | Introduction to Clinical Psychology | 3 |
| PSY:2401 | Introduction to Developmental Science | 3 |
| PSY:2601 | Introduction to Cognitive Psychology | 3 |
| SOC:1010 | Introduction to Sociology | 3-4 |
| SOC:1220 | Principles of Social Psychology | 3-4 |
| TR:1070 | Perspectives on Leisure and Play | 3 |
Culture, Society, and the Arts
Diversity and Inclusion
Courses in the Diversity and Inclusion area help to develop students’ recognition of their positions in an increasingly pluralistic world while fostering an understanding of social and cultural differences. Students reflect critically on their own social and cultural perspectives while increasing their ability to engage with people who have backgrounds or ideas different from their own. Students also explore the historical and structural bases of inequality and the benefits and challenges of diversity.
Transfer credit is not accepted for the Diversity and Inclusion requirement; students must complete this requirement with coursework taken at the University of Iowa.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Diversity and Inclusion area. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AFAM:1020/AMST:1030 | Introduction to African American Culture | 3 |
| AFAM:1030 | Introduction to African American Society | 3 |
| AFAM:1130 | The History of African American Film (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| AFAM:1241/MUS:1741 | The Soundtrack of Black America | 3 |
| AFAM:2064/SOC:2064 | Racial Inequity and the Experiences of African American Families in the U.S. | 3 |
| AFAM:2070/COMM:2069 | Black Television Culture | 3 |
| AFAM:2500 | Black Culture and Experience: Contemporary Issues | 3 |
| AMST:2025 | Diversity in American Culture | 3 |
| ANTH:2151/GWSS:2151/IS:2151 | Global Migration in the Contemporary World | 3 |
| ANTH:2165/AMST:2165/NAIS:2165 | Native Peoples of North America | 3 |
| ARTS:2100 | Printmaking and Politics of Protest | 3 |
| ASIA:2222/GWSS:2222/WLLC:2222 | Women in Premodern East Asian Literature | 3 |
| CCCC:2220 | Foundations of Critical Cultural Competence | 3 |
| CINE:1195 | Video Games and Identity | 3 |
| CINE:1625 | Race, Gender, and Sexuality on Screen | 3 |
| CLSA:2800 | Race and Marginality in the Ancient World (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| COMM:1168 | Music and Social Change | 3 |
| COMM:1898/LATS:1898 | Introduction to Latina/o/x Communication and Culture | 3 |
| CSD:1200 | Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities | 3 |
| DANC:2065 | Performing Power/Performing Protest: The Body, Identity, and the Image | 3 |
| DST:1101 | Introduction to Disability Studies | 3 |
| EDTL:2670 | Peacebuilding, Singing, and Writing in a Prison Choir | 3 |
| EDTL:4900 | Foundations of Special Education (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| EPLS:1240 | Finding Your Path in Higher Education | 3 |
| GRMN:2600 | Witch Hunts in Fact and Fiction: A Global History of Exclusion (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3-4 |
| GRMN:2620/WLLC:2620 | Anne Frank and Her Story | 3-4 |
| GRMN:2675 | The Politics of Memory: Holocaust, Genocide, and 9/11 | 3-4 |
| GWSS:1001 | Introduction to Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies | 3 |
| GWSS:1002 | Diversity and Power in the U.S. | 3 |
| HHP:2280 | Cultural Competency in Health Promotion | 3 |
| HIST:1040 | Diversity in History | 3 |
| HIST:2267/AFAM:2267 | African American History to 1877: From Slave Cabin to Senate Floor | 3 |
| HIST:2268/AFAM:2268 | African American History Since the Civil War | 3 |
| IS:2020 | World Events Today! | 3 |
| ITAL:2660 | The Italian American Experience | 3 |
| JMC:2500 | Community Media | 3 |
| JMC:2600 | Freedom of Expression | 3 |
| LATS:2280/HIST:2280/SPAN:2280 | Introduction to Latina/o/x Studies | 3 |
| LING:1070 | Language Attitudes: Is How You Sound How You Are Seen? | 3 |
| NAIS:1290/AMST:1290/GHS:1290/HIST:1290 | Native American Foods and Foodways | 3 |
| POLI:1601 | Introduction to Social Media and Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1800 | Introduction to the Politics of Class and Inequality | 3 |
| POLI:1900 | Introduction to the Politics of Race | 3 |
| POLI:1950 | Introduction to the Politics of Religion | 3 |
| PSY:1501 | Everyone's a Little Bit Biased: The Science Behind Prejudice | 3 |
| RELS:1015 | Global Religious Conflict and Diversity | 3 |
| RELS:2330 | Economics and Islam | 3 |
| RELS:2620 | Politics, Sex, and the Bible | 3 |
| RHET:2135 | Rhetorics of Diversity and Inclusion | 3 |
| RUSS:2232 | Romani (Gypsy) Cultures of Eastern Europe | 3 |
| SJUS:1001 | Introduction to Social Justice | 3 |
| SOC:1030 | Contemporary Social Problems | 3-4 |
| SOC:2830 | Race and Ethnicity (GE status effective fall 2020) | 3 |
| SPAN:2050/LATS:2050 | Spanish in the United States | 3 |
| SRM:1045 | Diversity and Inclusion in Healthy Living | 3 |
| SPST:1074/AMST:1074/GWSS:1074 | Inequality in American Sport | 3 |
| THTR:2320 | Playwriting in a Global World | 3 |
| THTR:2405 | Staging Americans: U.S. Cultures Through Theatre and Performance | 3 |
| WLLC:1200/DST:1200/GHS:1200/GRMN:1200 | Disabilities and Inclusion in Writing and Film Around the World | 3 |
| WLLC:2001/ASIA:2001/FREN:2010/RUSS:2001/SPAN:2001/TRNS:2001 | Global Science Fiction (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| WRIT:2100 | Writing and Community Outreach | 3 |
Historical Perspectives
Courses in the Historical Perspectives area help students comprehend the historical processes of change and continuity; develop the ability to generalize, explain, and interpret historical change; and understand the past in its own terms.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Historical Perspectives area. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ANTH:1201 | World Archaeology | 3 |
| ARTH:1010 | Art and Visual Culture | 3 |
| ARTH:1050 | From Cave Paintings to Cathedrals: Survey of Western Art I | 3 |
| ARTH:1060 | From Mona Lisa to Modernism: Survey of Western Art II | 3 |
| ARTH:1070/CHIN:1070 | Asian Art and Culture | 3 |
| ARTH:1090 | Earthly Paradises: A Global History of Gardens | 3 |
| ARTH:2920 | Introduction to American Art | 3 |
| CLSA:1181/GHS:1181 | Ancient Medicine | 3 |
| CLSA:1830 | Greek Civilization | 3 |
| CLSA:1840 | Roman Civilization | 3 |
| CLSA:2127/JPNS:2127 | Global Manuscript Cultures | 3 |
| EES:1115/ENVS:1115/GEOG:1115/HIST:1115 | The History and Science of Oil | 3 |
| FREN:3120 | French Civilization | 3 |
| HIST:1010 | History Matters | 3 |
| HIST:1016 | The History That Made Our World | 3 |
| HIST:1261 | American History to 1877 | 3 |
| HIST:1262 | American History 1877-Present | 3 |
| HIST:1401 | The West and the World: Ancient | 3-4 |
| HIST:1402 | The West and the World: Medieval | 3-4 |
| HIST:1403 | The West and the World: Modern | 3-4 |
| HIST:1601/ASIA:1601 | Civilizations of Asia: China from Origins to the 17th Century (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| HIST:1602/ASIA:1602 | Civilizations of Asia: China from the 17th Century to the Present | 3 |
| HIST:1604/ASIA:1604 | Civilizations of Asia: Japan | 3-4 |
| HIST:1606/ASIA:1606/RELS:1606 | Civilizations of Asia: South Asia | 3-4 |
| HIST:1607 | Civilizations of Asia: Korea | 3-4 |
| HIST:2461/CLSA:2461/RELS:2361 | Middle East and Mediterranean: Alexander to Suleiman | 3 |
| HONR:1610 | Honors Seminar in Historical Perspectives | 3 |
| ITAL:2550 | Images of Modern Italy | 3 |
| JMC:1200 | Media History and Culture | 3 |
| MUS:1303 | Roots, Rock, and Rap: A History of Popular Music | 3 |
| MUS:2301 | History of Western Music I | 3 |
| MUS:2302 | History of Western Music II | 3 |
| PHIL:1033 | The Meaning of Life | 3 |
| PHIL:1034 | Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness | 3 |
| RELS:1001 | Judaism, Christianity, and Islam | 3 |
| RELS:1225/HIST:1025 | Medieval Religion and Culture | 3 |
| RELS:1250/HIST:1050 | Modern Religion and Culture | 3 |
| RELS:2930/COMM:2079 | Digital Media and Religion (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| RUSS:1531 | Slavic Folklore | 3 |
| RUSS:1532 | Traces of Ancient Russian Culture (IX-XVII Centuries): Vikings, Mongols, and Tsars | 3 |
| THTR:1400 | Theatre and Society: Ancients and Moderns | 3 |
| THTR:1401 | Theatre and Society: Romantics and Rebels | 3 |
| THTR:2410 | History of Theatre and Drama I | 3 |
| THTR:2411 | History of Theatre and Drama II | 3 |
International and Global Issues
Courses in the International and Global Issues area focus predominantly on countries or issues outside the United States, encouraging students to understand contemporary issues from an international perspective. Students develop knowledge of one or more contemporary global or international issues, gain a greater awareness of varied international perspectives, and improve their skills of analysis and critical inquiry.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the International and Global Issues area. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ANTH:1046/GEOG:1046/GWSS:1046 | Environmental Politics in India | 3 |
| ANTH:2100 | Anthropology and Contemporary World Problems | 3 |
| ANTH:2136 | Urban Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTH:2261 | Human Impacts on the Environment | 3 |
| ARTH:1040 | Arts of Africa | 3 |
| FREN:1006 | Global Sports and National Cultures | 3 |
| FREN:1510 | Cultural Misunderstandings: France and U.S.A. | 3 |
| GEOG:1060 | Geography of Asia: From Japan to Pakistan | 3 |
| GEOG:1070 | Contemporary Environmental Issues | 3 |
| GEOG:1090 | Globalization and Geographic Diversity | 3 |
| GEOG:2910 | The Global Economy | 3 |
| GHS:2000/ANTH:2103 | Introduction to Global Health Studies | 3 |
| GRMN:2720/HIST:2420 | Germany in the World | 3 |
| GRMN:4315 | German Society Today | 3 |
| HIST:1016 | The History That Made Our World | 3 |
| HIST:1403 | The West and the World: Modern | 3-4 |
| HIST:1601/ASIA:1601 | Civilizations of Asia: China from Origins to the 17th Century (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| HIST:1602/ASIA:1602 | Civilizations of Asia: China from the 17th Century to the Present | 3 |
| HIST:1604/ASIA:1604 | Civilizations of Asia: Japan | 3-4 |
| HIST:1606/ASIA:1606/RELS:1606 | Civilizations of Asia: South Asia | 3-4 |
| HIST:1607 | Civilizations of Asia: Korea | 3-4 |
| HONR:1620 | Honors Seminar in International and Global Issues | 3 |
| IS:2000 | Introduction to International Studies | 3 |
| ITAL:2770 | The Mafia and the Movies | 3 |
| LING:1040/ANTH:1040 | Language Rights | 3 |
| POLI:1400 | Introduction to Comparative Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1401 | Introduction to Russian Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1445 | Introduction to Asian Politics: China | 3 |
| POLI:1449 | Introduction to European Politics | 3 |
| POLI:1500 | Introduction to International Relations | 3 |
| POLI:1501 | Introduction to American Foreign Policy | 3 |
| POLI:2415/LAS:2415 | Latin American Politics | 3 |
| RELS:1130/HIST:1030 | Introduction to Islamic Civilization | 3 |
| RELS:2852/GWSS:2052 | Women in Islam and the Middle East | 3 |
| RELS:3855/IS:3855 | Human Rights and Islam | 3 |
| RUSS:1132 | Russia Today | 3 |
| RUSS:2050/WLLC:2050 | Women from an Unknown Land: The Fight for Independence | 3 |
| SPST:2170 | Sport and Globalization | 3 |
Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts
Courses in the Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts area provide students with opportunities to appreciate the arts and to analyze them within their historical and theoretical contexts. They also help students develop the analytic, expressive, and imaginative abilities necessary for understanding, appreciating, and creating art.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts area. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AFAM:1240/MUS:1740 | The Art of Listening to Jazz | 3 |
| AMST:1800 | American Gothic: Film, Literature, and Popular Culture | 3 |
| ARTH:1010 | Art and Visual Culture | 3 |
| ARTH:1020 | Masterpieces: Art in Historical and Cultural Perspectives | 3 |
| ARTH:1040 | Arts of Africa | 3 |
| ARTH:1050 | From Cave Paintings to Cathedrals: Survey of Western Art I | 3 |
| ARTH:1060 | From Mona Lisa to Modernism: Survey of Western Art II | 3 |
| ARTH:1070/CHIN:1070 | Asian Art and Culture | 3 |
| ARTH:1095/NAIS:1095 | Native American Art | 3 |
| ARTH:2920 | Introduction to American Art | 3 |
| ARTS:1010 | Elements of Art | 3 |
| ARTS:1030 | Elements of Jewelry and Metal Arts | 3 |
| ARTS:1050 | Elements of Printmaking | 3 |
| ARTS:1080 | Elements of Sculpture | 3 |
| CERM:2010 | Ceramics I: Handbuilding | 3 |
| CHIN:1702 | Chinese Popular Culture | 3 |
| CINE:1100 | The Art of Smartphone Filmmaking | 3 |
| CINE:1602 | Introduction to Film Studies | 3 |
| CINE:1610 | Contemporary Cinema | 3 |
| CL:1240/CLSA:1040 | World Literature: Antiquity to 1700 | 3 |
| CL:1241 | World Literature: 1700 to Present | 3 |
| CLSA:1010 | Hero, God, Mortal: Literature of Greece | 3 |
| CLSA:1020 | Love and Glory: The Literature of Rome | 3 |
| CLSA:1740/WRIT:1740 | Writing Strategies: Word Origins and Word Choice | 3 |
| CLSA:2016 | Classical Mythology | 3 |
| CNW:1620 | Introduction to Creative Nonfiction | 3 |
| CW:1800 | Creative Writing Studio Workshop | 3 |
| DANC:1010 | Beginning Tap | 2 |
| DANC:1020 | Beginning Jazz | 2 |
| DANC:1025 | Beginning Hip Hop Dance | 2 |
| DANC:1030 | Beginning Ballet | 2 |
| DANC:1040 | Beginning Modern Dance | 2 |
| DANC:1110 | Continuing Tap | 1-2 |
| DANC:1120 | Continuing Jazz | 2 |
| DANC:1125 | Continuing Hip Hop Dance | 2 |
| DANC:1130 | Continuing Ballet | 2 |
| DANC:1140 | Continuing Modern Dance | 2 |
| DANC:2020 | Intermediate Jazz | 2 |
| DANC:2025 | Intermediate Hip Hop Dance | 2 |
| DANC:2029 | Intermediate Ballet for Nonmajors (GE status effective spring 2021) | 2 |
| DANC:2030 | Majors Intermediate Ballet (no longer approved for GE status spring 2021) | 3 |
| DANC:2040 | Majors Intermediate Modern Dance | 3 |
| DANC:2060/DPA:2060 | Dance and Society in Global Contexts | 3 |
| EDTL:2122 | Creativity, Imagination, Play, and Human Development through the Arts | 3 |
| ENGL:1100 | City of Literature | 3 |
| ENGL:1320 | Heroes and Villains | 3 |
| ENGL:1330 | The Art of Storytelling | 3 |
| ENGL:1345 | American Lives | 3 |
| ENGL:1350 | Literature and Sexualities | 3 |
| FREN:4100 | French Cinema | 3-4 |
| GRMN:2275 | Scandinavian Crime Fiction | 3 |
| GRMN:2630 | German Cinema: Greatest Hits | 3-4 |
| GRMN:2666/RUSS:2666/WLLC:2666 | Pact with the Devil | 3 |
| GRMN:2785 | Cyborgs, Monsters, and the Uncanny | 3 |
| HONR:1630 | Honors Seminar in Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts | 3 |
| ITAL:2440 | Italian Arts for Business (GE status effective spring 2021) | 3 |
| MUS:1001 | Group Piano I: Non-Music Majors | 1 |
| MUS:1009 | Jazz Cultures in America and Abroad | 3 |
| MUS:1012 | Creativity in Music | 3 |
| MUS:1020 | Performance Instruction for Nonmajors | 1 |
| MUS:1066 | Introduction to Film Music | 3 |
| MUS:1301 | Concepts and Contexts of Western Music | 3 |
| MUS:1302 | Great Musicians | 3 |
| MUS:1310 | World Music | 3 |
| MUS:1720 | History of Jazz | 3 |
| MUS:1800/DPA:1800 | World of the Beatles | 3 |
| MUS:2005 | Issues in Popular Music: Women Who Rock | 3 |
| MUS:2301 | History of Western Music I | 3 |
| MUS:2302 | History of Western Music II | 3 |
| MUS:2311/LAS:2311 | Music of Latin America and the Caribbean | 3 |
| PORT:2850/LAS:2850/SPAN:2850 | Brazilian Narrative in Translation | 3 |
| SCLP:2810 | Undergraduate Sculpture I | 3 |
| SPAN:1700/LATS:1700 | Latina/o/x Literature in the United States | 3 |
| SPAN:1800 | Contemporary Spanish American Narrative | 3 |
| THTR:1140 | Basic Acting | 3 |
| THTR:1400 | Theatre and Society: Ancients and Moderns | 3 |
| THTR:1401 | Theatre and Society: Romantics and Rebels | 3 |
| THTR:1412/DANC:1412/DPA:1412 | The Arts in Performance | 3 |
| THTR:2301 | Playwriting I | 3 |
| THTR:2410 | History of Theatre and Drama I | 3 |
| THTR:2411 | History of Theatre and Drama II | 3 |
Values and Culture
Courses in the Values and Culture area focus on how culture shapes the human experience and the role of values in society, with students asking fundamental questions regarding the human experience while exploring their own values and beliefs.
All students must complete at least 3 s.h. of coursework in the Values and Culture area. The following courses are approved for the area.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| AMST:1010 | Understanding American Cultures | 3 |
| AMST:1154 | Food in America | 3 |
| AMST:2000 | Introduction to American Studies | 3 |
| ANTH:1101/IS:1101 | Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTH:2175/JPNS:2175 | Japanese Society and Culture | 3 |
| ARTH:1030 | Themes in Global Art | 3 |
| ARTH:1045 | Race and Art in America | 3 |
| ARTH:1095/NAIS:1095 | Native American Art | 3 |
| ARTS:2000/ASP:2000/EDTL:2000/RHET:2000 | Big Ideas: Creativity for a Lifetime | 3 |
| ASIA:2450 | India Beat: The Aesthetics and Politics of India Today | 3 |
| CHIN:1504 | Asian Humanities: China | 3 |
| CLSA:1340 | Magic in the Ancient World | 3 |
| CLSA:1875 | Ancient Sports and Leisure | 3 |
| CLSA:2016 | Classical Mythology | 3 |
| CLSA:2482/RELS:2182 | Ancient Mediterranean Religions | 3 |
| CLSA:2651/GWSS:2651 | Gender and Sexuality in the Ancient World | 3 |
| COMM:1174 | Media and Society | 3 |
| DANC:1150/LAS:1150 | Brazilian Culture and Carnival | 3 |
| ENGL:1420 | Technologies and Literatures of the Future | 3 |
| EPLS:4180 | Human Relations for the Classroom Teacher | 3 |
| GRMN:2550/WLLC:2550 | Mardi Gras and More: Cultures of Carnival | 3-4 |
| GRMN:2618/WLLC:2618 | The Third Reich and Literature | 3 |
| GRMN:2650 | German Nationalism After WWII | 3-4 |
| GRMN:2655/IS:2600 | Muslim Minorities in the West | 3-4 |
| GWSS:1060/AMST:1060/ENGL:1410 | Sex and Popular Culture in America | 3 |
| HHP:2200 | Physical Activity and Health | 3 |
| HIST:1609 | India Now! Surveying the World's Largest Democracy | 3-4 |
| HIST:1708 | Civilizations of Africa | 3 |
| HONR:1670 | Values and Culture | 3 |
| ITAL:2550 | Images of Modern Italy | 3 |
| ITAL:2880 | Italian Food Culture (GE status effective fall 2020) | 3 |
| JMC:1500 | Social Media Today | 3 |
| JPNS:1506 | Asian Humanities: Japan | 3 |
| LING:2900 | Language, Gender, and Sexuality | 3 |
| MUS:1009 | Jazz Cultures in America and Abroad | 3 |
| MUS:1720 | History of Jazz | 3 |
| MUS:2311/LAS:2311 | Music of Latin America and the Caribbean | 3 |
| NAIS:1049 | Introduction to American Indian and Native Studies | 3 |
| PHIL:1401 | Matters of Life and Death | 3 |
| PHIL:1861 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 |
| PHIL:2402 | Introduction to Ethics | 3 |
| POLI:1300 | Introduction to Political Thought and Action | 3 |
| RELS:1070 | Introduction to the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament | 3 |
| RELS:1080 | Introduction to the New Testament | 3 |
| RELS:1130/HIST:1030 | Introduction to Islamic Civilization | 3 |
| RELS:1350/AFAM:1250 | Introduction to African American Religions | 3 |
| RELS:1404/ASIA:1040/HIST:1610 | Living Religions of the East | 3 |
| RELS:1506/ASIA:1060/HIST:1612 | Introduction to Buddhism | 3 |
| RELS:1702 | Religion in America Today | 3 |
| RELS:1810 | Happiness in a Difficult World | 3 |
| RELS:1903 | Quest for Human Destiny | 3 |
| RELS:2700/NAIS:2700 | Sacred World of Native Americans | 3 |
| RELS:2852/GWSS:2052 | Women in Islam and the Middle East | 3 |
| RELS:2986 | Religion and Women | 3 |
| RHET:2070 | Persuasive Stories | 3 |
| RUSS:1082 | Youth Subcultures After Socialism | 3 |
| RUSS:1131 | Introduction to Russian Culture | 3 |
| RUSS:1132 | Russia Today | 3 |
| RUSS:1531 | Slavic Folklore | 3 |
| RUSS:1532 | Traces of Ancient Russian Culture (IX-XVII Centuries): Vikings, Mongols, and Tsars | 3 |
| RUSS:2100 | Russian Mindset: Sex, Business, and Politics | 3 |
| SOAS:1502/RELS:1502 | Asian Humanities: India | 3 |
| SOC:1310/GWSS:1310 | Gender and Society | 3 |
| SOC:2710 | The American Family | 3 |
| SOC:2810 | Social Inequality | 3 |
| SOC:2830 | Race and Ethnicity (GE status ends effective fall 2020) | 3 |
| SPAN:1700/LATS:1700 | Latina/o/x Literature in the United States | 3 |
| SPAN:2901 | Diversity and Cultures in Spain | 3 |
| SRM:1072 | Leisure and the Liberal Arts | 3 |
| SSW:1022/SOC:1022 | Social Justice and Social Welfare in the United States | 3 |
| THTR:1411 | Comedy and Society | 3 |
| THTR:1412/DANC:1412/DPA:1412 | The Arts in Performance | 3 |
The African American studies major provides valuable background for careers in a diverse society, in areas such as community work, public school teaching, religion, government, political science, and law. Some graduates go on to advanced study, many preparing for work as teachers and administrators at colleges and universities.
The Pomerantz Career Center offers multiple resources to help students find internships and jobs.
Four-Year Graduation Plan
The following checkpoints list the minimum requirements students must complete by certain semesters in order to stay on the University's Four-Year Graduation Plan. Courses in the major are those required to complete the major; they may be offered by departments other than the major department.
During the first year of study, students should focus on completing the GE CLAS Core, perhaps including Swahili or Spanish coursework to begin satisfying the World Languages requirement.
Before the fifth semester begins: at least three courses in the major, including AFAM:1020 Introduction to African American Culture and AFAM:1030 Introduction to African American Society
Before the seventh semester begins: at least seven courses in the major and at least 90 s.h. earned toward the degree
Before the eighth semester begins: at least nine courses in the major
During the eighth semester: enrollment in all remaining coursework in the major, all remaining GE CLAS Core courses, and a sufficient number of semester hours to graduate
Sample Plan of Study
Sample plans represent one way to complete a program of study. Actual course selection and sequence will vary and should be discussed with an academic advisor. For additional sample plans, see MyUI.
African American Studies, B.A.
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| ENGL:1200 or RHET:1030 |
The Interpretation of Literature or Rhetoric |
3 - 4 |
| AFAM:1020 or AFAM:1030 |
Introduction to African American Culture a or Introduction to African American Society |
3 |
| GE CLAS Core: Historical Perspectives b | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: Natural Sciences without Lab b | 3 | |
| CSI:1600 | Success at Iowa | 2 |
| Hours | 14-15 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL:1200 or RHET:1030 |
The Interpretation of Literature or Rhetoric |
3 - 4 |
| AFAM:1020 or AFAM:1030 |
Introduction to African American Culture a or Introduction to African American Society |
3 |
| GE CLAS Core: Diversity and Inclusion b | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: Natural Sciences with Lab b | 4 | |
| Elective course c | 2 | |
| Hours | 15-16 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Major: history, religion, and the diaspora topical area course | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: Literary, Visual, and Performing Arts b | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: Quantitative or Formal Reasoning b | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: World Languages First Level Proficiency or elective course d | 4 - 5 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Hours | 16-17 | |
| Spring | ||
| Major: history, religion, and the diaspora topical area course | 3 | |
| Major: media, politics, and social institutions topical area course | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: International and Global Issues b | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: World Languages Second Level Proficiency or elective course d | 4 - 5 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Hours | 16-17 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Major: literature and performing arts topical area course | 3 | |
| Major: media, politics, and social institutions topical area course | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: World Languages Second Level Proficiency or elective course d | 4 - 5 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Hours | 16-17 | |
| Spring | ||
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Major: literature and performing arts topical area course | 3 | |
| GE CLAS Core: World Languages Fourth Level Proficiency or elective course d | 4 - 5 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Hours | 16-17 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| Major: elective course e | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| Major: elective course e | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Elective course c | 3 | |
| Degree Application: apply on MyUI before deadline (typically in February for spring, September for fall) f | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
| Total Hours | 123-129 | |
| a | Fulfills a major requirement and may fulfill a GE requirement. |
| b | GE CLAS Core courses may be completed in any order unless used as a prerequisite for another course. Students should consult with an advisor about the best sequencing of courses. |
| c | Students may use elective courses to earn credit towards the total s.h. required for graduation or to complete a double major, minors, or certificates. |
| d | Students who have completed four years of a single language in high school have satisfied the GE CLAS Core World Languages requirement. Enrollment in world languages courses requires a placement exam, unless enrolling in a first-semester-level course. |
| e | Students are required to complete 6 s.h. in electives selected from the three topical areas. With the approval of an African American studies advisor, students may substitute relevant courses offered by other departments for one or both electives. |
| f | Please see Academic Calendar, Office of the Registrar website for current degree application deadlines. Students should apply for a degree for the session in which all requirements will be met. For any questions on appropriate timing, contact your academic advisor. For more information visit http://commencement.uiowa.edu/. If applicable search for "Early and Late Participation" to find this page (e.g. participate in graduation ceremony in May, degree conferral in August). |