UMES Home Latest Catalog
The University
Academics
The School of Agriculture and Natural Sciences
The School of the Arts and Professions
The School of Business and Technology
Courses
Faculty
Appendix

The School of the Arts and Professions

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH AND MODERN LANGUAGES

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

English
Languages

ENGLISH

ENGL 101 Basic Composition I — 3 cr.

This course is designed to review the fundamentals of grammar, punctuation, and conventional usage and to provide skills of organization and development in writing. Adequate opportunity for written and oral discussion of selected examples of prose and creative writing will be provided to encourage an interest in literature and the development of a critical attitude toward literature in general.

ENGL 101H Honors English Composition I — 3 cr.

The major course goal is to develop competence in expository writing, which involves communication of ideas in clear, precise language that demonstrates adequate knowledge of organization, grammar, and usage. This course satisfies the "Statement of Expectations" for freshman writing. 

ENGL 102 Basic Composition II — 3 cr.

This course continues the study of basic elements of written composition, especially organization and development, including examination of selections from prose, poetry and drama. A research paper will be required. Prerequisite: ENGL 101.

ENGL 102 Honors English Composition II — 3 cr.

A continuation of ENGL 101H and as such will review modes of expository writing with emphasis on the research paper. The major goal is to develop competence in critical writing.

ENGL 104 Introduction to Telecommunications — 3 cr.

This course concentrates on the history of telecommunications, regulation and policy, and media effects as well as research and audience measurements. By examining the history and development of the various components of the telecommunications industry, students will gain an understanding of how industrial, social, and technological forces have shaped the mass media as we know them today.

ENGL 203 Fundamentals of Contemporary Speech — 3 cr.

This course requires the preparation and delivery of short original speeches, outside readings and reports. It is recommended that this course be taken during the sophomore year. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 204 Introduction to Fiction — 3 cr.

This course is an introduction to the development of fiction with concentration on several major fiction writers. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 205 Introduction to Drama — 3 cr.

This course is an introduction to drama around the world through reading, analyzing, viewing, and performance. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 206 Introduction to Poetry — 3 cr.

This course is an introduction to the development of poetry with concentration on several major poets. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 207 Introduction to Creative Writing — 3 cr.

This course provides an introduction to various techniques used by successful writers of all genres with the object of assisting the student to develop and improve upon his/her techniques. Prerequisites: ENGL 101, ENGL 102.

ENGL 215 Introduction to Film — 3 cr.

This course involves a study of the motion picture as an art form and as an influence on society. Basic concepts of organization, structure, and techniques of editing will be examined through the reading of selected material and the viewing of a number of short films and excerpts from feature films. The course will move from the basic psychology of visual perception through the history, theory, and critical standards of film. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102

ENGL 218 Approaches to Grammar — 3 cr.

This course will provide a comprehensive review of traditional English grammar designed particularly for prospective teachers and writers. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102. 

ENGL 236 Interviewing — 3 cr.

This course is a study of methods used to prepare for and conduct interviews for articles in periodicals. Emphasis is placed on ways to structure a set of questions that will make the interviewee most informative thus providing an effective story for the reader. Mock interviews between students are included. Prerequisite: ENGL 104.

ENGL 237 Radio Production and Programming — 3 cr.

This course involves recording and control of sound in studios and on location. Introduction to radio production equipment and creative mixing and editing of multiple sound tracks. This course will examine station organization, staff job descriptions, and responsibilities along with station operation techniques. Prerequisites: ENGL 104 & ENGL 200.

ENGL 238 TV Production and Programming — 3 cr.

This is a laboratory course designed to expose the student to each production position in a TV studio from director to camera operator and video editor. Prerequisites: ENGL 104 & ENGL 200.

ENGL 239 Introduction to Broadcast Performance — 3 cr.

This course is a study of communications theory and its application to the preparation, presentation, and criticism of radio and television performance - including basic formats of broadcasting news, interviews, music, commercials, public affairs, and entertainment features. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 200. 

ENGL 241 Basic Newswriting and Reporting — 3 cr.

This course is an introduction to the structure and content of news stories for daily papers. It includes an examination of news gathering techniques. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 200.

ENGL 301 American Literature I — 3 cr.

This course is a survey of the major American authors and their works from the beginning of American civilization to Whitman. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H.

ENGL 302 American Literature II — 3 cr.

This course is a survey of the major American authors and their works from Whitman to the present. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H.

ENGL 303 Broadcasting Management — 3 cr.

This course explores theories of management-study and analysis of special problems and situations confronting the manager of a broadcast or cable facility in the administration of personnel and various station departments. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 200, ENGL 234 and ENGL 237.

ENGL 305/H Technical Writing — 3 cr.

This course will concentrate on the techniques of expository writing in the preparation of technical material. Among the areas of concentration will be writing to support graphic illustrations, writing to clarify statistical information and writing to explain process. Students will be introduced to the selective use of the library and basic research facilities, particularly the use of periodical indexes and selective bibliographies. The course is open to all degree-seeking and special students who have successfully completed the Freshman and Sophomore year, and who have satisfactorily completed ENGL 101, ENGL 102, and ENGL 203. Any waiver of these prerequisites based on special circumstances must be with the consent of the dean or department chairperson. 

ENGL 310/H Advanced Composition — 3 cr.

This course involves a study of prose techniques such as definition, classification, analysis, and process analysis. It includes the reading of model documents (essays, news stories, etc.) and a substantial amount of practice of expository writing. The course is open to all students who have successfully completed the Freshman and Sophomore years, and who have successfully completed ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 311 Argumentation and Persuasion — 3 cr.

This course is designed to reflect and refine current theory and practice in argumentation and debate. Students will develop conceptual apparatus to apply general principles as required by circumstances. The course will blend theoretical explanation and practical advice. Students must master the basic terms and theories common to all argumentation which are necessary as a prelude to the more specific study in academic debate. Subsequently, the ultimate purpose of the course is to help students learn to become effective advocates. Prerequisite: ENGL 203

ENGL 312 Group Discussion — 3 cr.

Group discussion is designed to provide students with necessary knowledge and practical experience to enable them to work with discussion groups as active and productive participants. The students will be knowledgeable of the theoretical grounding and participate in a variety of roles as a discussion-group participant. Because the course is designed with student-oriented activities as an integral part of the structure, class participation and attendance are required. Prerequisite: ENGL 203

ENGL 313 Feature Writing — 3 cr.

This course is designed to help students develop skills needed to write human interest stories that could appear in newspapers or magazines. Emphasis will be placed on the tone, imagery, and flair that is needed to captivate readers, as well as the tailoring of an article to a specific readership. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 241. 

ENGL 314 Copy Editing — 3 cr.

This course will cover the writing of headlines, captions, outlines, and editorial summaries, along with the techniques of reshaping text while working against time and space restrictions. Class assignments will include drills on editing and rewriting under deadlines. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 241.

**ENGL 317 Shakespeare — 3 cr.

This course will examine characteristics and qualities of selected works of Shakespeare. Emphasis will generally be placed on the more significant tragedies, comedies and histories within the context of the Elizabethan world view. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 & ENGL 102.

ENGL 319 Theater Practicum — 1 cr.

This course is an opportunity for actors hands-on experience through participation in working with live theater to be performed in front of a live audience. Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor. 

ENGL 321 English Literature I — 3 cr.

This course involves a survey of important authors and works in English Literature from the beginning through the 18th Century. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 322/H English Literature II — 3 cr.

This course is a continuation of ENGL 321 dealing with English Literature since the Restoration. This course may be substituted for ENGL 321 by English majors. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H.

ENGL 324 Literature and Film —3 cr.

This course examines the relationship between literature and film, with particular emphasis on the problems and procedures inherent in the transition of novels and short narratives into screenplays.  Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 325 Literary Criticism —3 cr.

The study of various critical approaches to literature, such as textual, archetypal, psychological and sociological.  Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.

ENGL 327/H African American Literature — 3 cr.

This course provides a survey of Black American Literature with a view of the oral tradition and written literature. Attention is given to the genres of poetry, drama, slave narrative, novel, and periodical. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H, or permission of instructor.

ENGL 328 World Literature I — 3 cr.

This course is an introductory study of major movements and genres in Eastern, Western, and African Literatures from ancient times through the Western Renaissance with the objective of helping students to gain knowledge of the ideas of people other than Americans. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H.

ENGL 329 World Literature II — 3 cr.

This course is a continuation of English 211. It deals with World Literature since the Western Renaissance. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H.

ENGL 330 Advanced Public Speaking — 3 cr.

This course involves a study of rhetorical principles and models of speech composition in conjunction with the preparation and presentation of specific forms of public address; methods and ethics of the persuasive process and its practical applications. Prerequisites: ENGL 101, ENGL 102, and ENGL 203.

**ENGL 332 The African Writer — 3 cr.

Contemporary African literature, with special emphasis on the role of the writer. The course includes many of the major African literary works of the last sixty years fiction, poetry, and drama - and at the same time focuses on the African writer's unique role as creator of functional art. [To be offered every Spring] Prerequisite: ENGL 327. 

ENGL 333 Principles of Photojournalism — 3 cr.

This course will survey how photographs are selected for publication. Students will study principles of photographic composition and how words and pictures are put together. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 241.

ENGL 336 Computer Graphics I — 3 cr.

This course opens the emerging field of computer graphics and digital media to students with no computer experience. Students learn how two and three-dimensional techniques of graphic designs are used in a growing range of communication design application including video CAD. Field trips are planned to facilities currently using of developing state of-the-art computer graphics systems. Prerequisites: ART 311.

ENGL 337 Computer Graphics II — 3 cr.

This course builds on the skills developed in Computer Graphics I, but orients itself toward the development of presentation-quality projects. The course consists of hands-on opportunities in the computer lab coupled with classroom discussion of related topics. Special attention is paid to exploration of the way in which this new and rapid tool can enhance the artists' options in matter of form, color, text and layout. Students also develop an understanding of today's marketplace and the variety of products available, as well as a working knowledge of the terminology and techniques of this discipline. Prerequisite: Computer Graphics I.

ENGL 344 Introduction to Language Science — 3 cr.

This course provides an introductory survey of contemporary linguistics with special focus on present-day American English. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and 102, or permission of the instructor.

ENGL 345 Special Topics in Literature — 3 cr.

Rotating topics. This course will involve an intensive study of the literary works of various authors. Prerequisites: ENGL 101, ENGL 102 and permission of the Instructor.

ENGL 346 History of the English Language — 3 cr.

This course covers the major developments in the history of English to the modern period with consideration of important changes and principles of development in phonology, syntax, and semantics. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102, or permission of the instructor.

ENGL 351 Communications Design Survey — 3 cr.

An introduction to the study of visual communications. This course involves conceptualization, graphic imagery, aesthetics, and symbolism for the communication of information through graphic design, with specific emphasis on the relationship of graphic design to advertising. Problem-solving projects related to the design profession. Prerequisite: Computer Graphics I & II. 

ENGL 352 Publication Design I — 3 cr.

This course involves layout and design of magazines, brochures and books as well as conception and design of complete units. Prerequisite: Communications Design - ENGL 338.

ENGL 353 Publication Design II — 3 cr.

Building on the skills and understanding of Publication Design 1, this course will further examine specific areas in publication design. Students will be required to design a publication from beginning to completion. Prerequisites: ENGL 352.

ENGL 354 Media Survey — 3 cr.

Students will survey various components of print and broadcast media and determine approaches that are taken. The course is basically a comparative analysis of the print and electronic media. Class instruction will include individual and group presentation aimed at showing how the media influence people. Prerequisites: ENGL 104 and ENGL 303.

ENGL 355 Ethics in Communications — 3 cr.

This course will introduce students to the challenges of exercising good taste and sensibility when gathering and reporting news. Students will examine case studies. Prerequisites: ENGL 104 and ENGL 241. 

ENGL 356 Photojournalism — 3 cr.

Students will gain experience in preparing photo essays which incorporate both paragraphs and print copy. Problems of staging, selecting, editing, and sequencing photo essays will be experienced and solved. Requirements: PHOTO I & II and still camera.

ENGL 380 Introduction to Language Science — 3 cr.

This course provides an introductory survey of contemporary linguistics with special focus on present-day American English. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102, or permission of instructor.

ENGL 401 Modern Drama — 3 cr.

This course is designed to give an overview and understanding of Modern Drama from Ibsen to the present. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 ENGL 102, THAR 201, or permission of instructor. 

ENGL 404 Studies in Drama — 3 cr.

This course will allow opportunities for a variety of topics pertinent to drama. An analysis of drama from around the world through reading, viewing, performance, and various forms of artistic expression will be explored. The course will also concentrate on specific social ramifications that foster the various types of drama produced during a particular period. 

ENGL 405 Studies in Film — 3 cr.

This course provides an in-depth examination of some particular aspect of the film. In any given semester the course may concentrate on, but by no means be limited to, such diverse topics as American film genre, the work of a particular film director, literature-to-film. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102, or permission of instructor.

ENGL 408 Studies in Poetry — 3 cr.

This course traces the development of poetry with concentration on several major poets. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and ENGL 102, or permission of instructor.

**ENGL 412/H Commonwealth Literature — 3 cr.

Intensive study of the works of writers from commonwealth countries. Attention is paid to the evolution of the author's cannon, to the effects on the literary context, to the relationship between the literary works and the historical and cultural context of the writer. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H.

**ENGL 413/H The Novel - East and West — 3 cr.

A multicultural course. The novel as a global form that speaks for the aspirations of the modern middle class individual and criticizes social abuses. Comparison of novels from America, Africa, Europe and Asia. Prerequisites: ENGL 101/H and ENGL 102/H.

ENGL 424 Advanced Reporting — 3 cr.

An internship with a communication-related agency. Prerequisites: Senior standing or permission from the department. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 241.

ENGL 450 Broadcast Law — 3 cr.

Study of various laws affecting broadcasting and cable communications-the actions of the courts in interpreting the laws and the actions of the federal regulatory agencies relating to the telecommunications industry. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 200, ENGL 234 & ENGL 237.

ENGL 470 Practicum in Telecommunications — 3 cr.

Field or work/study in a particular area of telecommunications by permission of instructor only. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 200, ENGL 234, ENGL 235 & ENGL 241. 

ENGL 472 Internship — 1-12 cr.

Internship in various telecommunications study areas arranged by and with permission of the instructor. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 203 & permission of the instructor. 

ENGL 480 Cross Cultural Communication — 3 cr.

A study of philosophy and theories of the human communication process with emphasis on understanding differences between varying ethnic and cultural groups. Psychological and social barriers to communication are also considered. Prerequisites: ENGL 104, ENGL 200 & ENGL 450. 

ENGL 481 Dramatic writing for Film and TV — 3 cr.

This course is designed for students who want to learn to take ideas and develop them into treatments, screen-plays and other verbal and visual forms. The class is conducted as a workshop; students' work is discussed in an informal atmosphere and selected films are screened. Through the workshop format, students are encouraged to find their creative direction. Prerequisite: Successful Completion of ENGL 101 & ENGL 102 and consent of the Instructor. Enrollment is limited to seventeen students.

ENGL 499 Independent Research in English 1 — 3 cr.

This course provides a vehicle to enable the student to range academically as far as interests and preparation carry him on a topic agreed upon by the instructor and student. The student will be required to meet and confer with the instructor on specified conference dates. Limited enrollment. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. 
 
 

LANGUAGES

FREN 101 Fundamentals of French I — 3 cr.

This course provides for the acquisition of basic skills in the language through drills in pronunciation, grammar and translation. Lab work required. To receive credit for this course, the student must also complete FREN 102. It is recommended that students who have two or more of high school French take an exam for credit.

FREN 102 Fundamentals in French II — 3 cr.

This course is a continuation of French 101. This course provides for the acquisition of basic skills in the language through drills in pronunciation, grammar and translation. Lab work required. To receive credit for this course, the student must also complete FREN 101. It is recommended that students who have two or more of high school French take an exam for credit.

FREN 201 Intermediate French I — 3 cr.

This course involves a review of grammar and pronunciation and involves graded readings of modern prose. Prerequisite: FREN 101-102 or equivalent.

FREN 202 Intermediate French II — 3 cr.

This course provides a review of idiomatic expressions, applications of language skills to reading, composition and class discussion. Prerequisite: FREN 201 or equivalent.

**FREN 301 Conversation and Composition — 3 cr.

Development of conversational proficiency in French. Development of writing skills through written reports on current events and on literary topics. Prerequisites: FREN 202, or permission of the Instructor.

**FREN 302 Translation — 3 cr.

This course is designed to develop advanced skills through training in translation and interpretation. Students translate French texts from different fields with emphasis on grammar and literary quality. They also practice translation from English into French. Prerequisites: FREN 301.

**FREN 401 French for the Business World — 3 cr.

Introduction to the study of terminology used in business, styles used in commercial, private and official formats for correspondence and various common business documents. Prerequisites: FREN 302, or permission of the Instructor

**FREN 402 Writers of French-Speaking Africa and the Caribbean — 3 cr.

Study of selected novels expressing the culture and the aspirations of the French speaking people of Africa and the Caribbean. Prerequisites: FREN 301 and FREN 302 or permission of the Instructor.

SPAN 101 Fundamentals of Spanish I — 3 cr.

This course provides for the acquisition of basic skills in the language through drills in pronunciation, grammar, and translation of elementary prose. 

Lab work required. To receive credit for this course, the student must also complete SPAN 102. It is recommended that students who have two or more of high school Spanish take an exam for credit.

SPAN 102 Fundamentals of Spanish II — 3 cr.

This course provides for the acquisition of basic skills in the language through drills in pronunciation, grammar and translation. Lab work required. To receive credit for this course, the student must also complete SPAN 101. It is recommended that students who have two or more of high school Spanish take an exam for credit.

SPAN 201 Intermediate Spanish I — 3 cr.

Review of grammar and pronunciation. The course involves graded readings of modern prose. Prerequisites: SPAN 101 and SPAN 102 or equivalent.

SPAN 202 Intermediate Spanish II — 3 cr.

Review of idiomatic expressions, applications of language skills to reading, composition and class discussion. Prerequisites: SPAN 101, SPAN 102 and SPAN 201.

**SPAN 301 Spanish Conversation and Composition — 3 cr. 

Development of conversational proficiency in Spanish. Development of writing skills through reports on current events and on literary topics. Prerequisites: SPAN 202 or permission of the Instructor. 

**SPAN 302 Translation — 3 cr.

This course is designed to develop advanced skills through training in translation and interpretation. Students translate Spanish texts from different fields with emphasis on grammar and literary quality. They also practice translation from English into Spanish. Prerequisites: SPAN 302 or permission of the Instructor.

**SPAN 401 Spanish for the Business World — 3 cr.

Introduction to the study of terminology used in business, styles used in commercial, private and official formats for correspondence and various common business documents. Prerequisites: SPAN 302 or permission of the Instructor.

**SPAN 402 Writers of Spanish Expression-Spain/Latin America — 3 cr. 

Study of selected novels expressing the culture and aspirations of the Spanish-speaking people of Spain and Latin America. Prerequisites: SPAN 302 or permission of the Instructor.
 

**Pending approval of the UMES Senate 

Department of English and Modern Languages

The University | Academics | The School of Agriculture and Natural Sciences | The School of the Arts and Professions | The School of Business and Technology | Courses | Faculty | Appendix