College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) Course Descriptions
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS101
Title: Eastern Armenian Language 1
Description: In this course students will learn the fundamentals of Eastern Armenian in order to be able to form simple sentences, recognize the Armenian alphabet and hold basic conversations. The course is for non-native speakers only.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS102
Title: Eastern Armenian Language 2
Description: This is an intermediate level Eastern Armenian course for students with basic knowledge of the language. Students must be able to read and write Armenian, and have basic conversational skills. The course is designed to enhance reading, speaking, and writing skills through the use of literary texts, through the application of syntax rules, through lectures, class discussions, group work, video-audio presentations, visits by various scholars, writers and artists, and occasional visits to galleries and museums. Students will be introduced to the evolution of the Armenian language, to classical and modern Armenian (similarities/differences), and to Western and Eastern Armenian (similarities/differences). They will also become familiarized with the classical orthography through some original texts. The selected texts will be provided in the form of a Course Reader designed for intermediate level learning and through additional texts handed out by the instructor throughout the course. The reader will contain poems, short stories, fables and short essays. The students will be assigned to read and to analyze the texts both in oral and written forms.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS103
Title: Armenian Language and Literature 1
Description: This course exposes students to a variety of texts by Armenian and non-Armenian poets, playwrights, and novelists across various historical periods. Students will study the linguistic and literary values of these texts, gaining an understanding of how literature reflects and constructs the Armenian identity in social, cultural, political, and historical contexts. Students will gain an appreciation of the Armenian language and develop skills in literary analysis through close reading, writing, discussion and presentation. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week. Note: Most sections will be offered in Armenian. Non Republic of Armenia citizens who did not graduate from an RoA high school whose language of instruction is Armenian will be eligible to enroll in an English-language section. This is a Foundation course.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS104
Title: Armenian Language & Literature 2
Description: This course involves close reading of influential works by Armenian writers in their historical, cultural and comparative context. The course examines the linguistic and cultural value of epic, short story, and spiritual literature through which students will gain an understanding of the interrelationship between literature and various aspects of Armenia’s history and development. Students are required to draw upon literary theories and influences in their final project and presentation, which may be either an original work or a sustained essay on an influential literary work. This course is designed for students with an Advanced to advanced background of the Armenian language. Although the course will be conducted in Eastern Armenian, it will expose students to literary works in both Western and Eastern Armenian. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week. Non Republic of Armenia citizens who did not graduate from an RoA high school whose language of instruction is Armenian will be eligible to enroll in an English-language section. This is a Foundation course.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS103
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS108
Title: Contemporary Issues in American Education
Description: This course engages students in explorations, interactions, and analyses of critical and contemporary educational issues pertaining to American education. More specifically, students will investigate issues influencing the social and political contexts of public educational settings in the United States. Students will actively examine the teaching profession from multiple vantage points both within and outside the domains of the American public-school system. Against this backdrop, students will reflect on and interpret the meaning of education and schooling in a pluralistic society and examine the ethical responsibilities of teaching in a political democracy. When appropriate, students will be asked to engage in comparative considerations of meanings and functions of public education in the United States and Republic of Armenia. Lecture, in-class workshops and group discussions.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS110
Title: Introduction to Philosophy
Description: This course aims at introducing students to some fundamental problems from various branches of philosophy: ontology, epistemology and ethics. Questions regarding the existence of matter, God, causation, free will and other minds, the possibility of knowledge, as well as some ethical questions will be addressed during the course. Students will read carefully selected writings from classical and modern philosophers. Students will be asked to write short essays and participate in well-structured debates and discussions. This course will help students develop critical and creative thinking skills, the ability to deal with uncertainty, conceptualize and theoretically analyze real life situations and problems. Home tasks will include readings and writing assignments. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS111
Title: Introduction to Ethics
Description: This course introduces students to major ethical theories: virtue ethics, deontology and utilitarianism. Students will use these frameworks to analyze ethical issues and develop their own positions to perennial problems. Special emphasis is placed on linking philosophical discussions to topics relevant to students as learners, workers, and citizens which may include numerous aspects of personal, social, professional and political life. Students will read carefully selected readings from classical and contemporary philosophers. Through rigorous inclass debates and discussions, students will be challenged to consider ethical dilemmas from different perspectives and weigh the strengths and shortcomings of various ethical theories. Home tasks will include readings and writing assignments. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS112
Title: Logic & Rhetoric
Description: The course introduces basic laws of logic, forms of thought, strategies and devices of developing and presenting public speeches. The course concentrates on two main questions: 1) How to reason well? 2) How to make a convincing speech or write a convincing essay? Students are expected to read selected texts on logic and rhetoric, prepare and perform oral speeches and write essays using various strategies, logical and rhetorical techniques of argumentation. Speeches and essays will be on various topics, for various audiences. During the course students will also scrutinize, analyze and assess historical as well as contemporary speeches from public and political life. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS114
Title: Introduction to Religion
Description: The course examines religion as a phenomenon of human culture. It firstly introduces the students to the main theoretical approaches and methods through which religion has been studied by historians and social scientists. Secondly, the course looks at the major themes in the study of religion. These themes will be examined drawing on particular religious traditions and through the lens of the theoretical approaches covered. Readings will include theoretical writings about religion by classics and contemporary authors, and primary texts from various religious traditions and by representatives of those traditions. The course combines lectures, in-class discussions, and analytical essays. Its broader aim is to give the students an understanding of the richness of the religious traditions of the world, and to develop skills to analyze religious phenomena and to situate them in their historical contexts. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS120
Title: The Study of History
Description: The purpose of this course is to cultivate historical thinking skills, including the ability to evaluate source reliability, understand multiple causality, and make valid interpretations. Importantly, the analytical techniques addressed in this course are relevant to real-life situations, including the interpretation of daily news reports, whether local, national, or international. This course is interactive, consisting of instructor lectures along with student engagement.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS125
Title: History of the Middle East
Description: A critical survey of the history of the Middle East from the period of Hellenism (323 BCE) to the present. The course especially focuses on the interplay of powerful political, cultural, economic and ideological forces that brought to life the formation and rise of Christianity and Islam, the millennial conflict between the Islamic and European imperialisms, interactions between the Roman-Byzantine, Iranian, Arab, and Turkic ethno-cultural worlds and political systems, westernization and transformations of the Middle East in the course of the First and Second World Wars, and the current regional sociopolitical and economic dynamics. Special attention is paid to the place of Armenia and Armenians in Middle Eastern history. This is a lecture course enhanced by students’ analysis of readings concerning main and supplementary topics. Evaluation is based on letter grading of students’ individual oral presentations, research essays, quizzes, and participation in group projects.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS127
Title: World Civilizations
Description: The course explores the meaning and importance of interdisciplinary study of world history by introducing students to distinctive features and characteristics of civilizations that had developed in the Old and New worlds from the earliest times to 1700 CE. It will emphasize the importance of primary sources and of critical analysis of academic theories. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS128
Title: History of the Modern World
Description: A critical introductory survey of the history of the Modern World from the beginning of the Age of Great Geographic Discoveries in the 15th century to the present. The course explores especially the foundations and transformations of modern imperialism, globalization, nation state, industrializations, forms of sociopolitical and economic organization, financial capitalism, international and domestic competition and conflict, the current technological civilization and humanism, the individual and the collective from a general perspective of history of civilizations. This is a lecture course enhanced by students’ analysis of readings concerning main and supplementary topics. Evaluation is based on letter grading of students’ individual oral presentations, research essays, quizzes, and participation to group projects.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS129
Title: Global Perspectives and Site Stories
Description: This course takes a close look at the historical, cultural, political, global, and economic factors surrounding Armenia’s reemergence as an independent state in the late 20th century and its trajectory in the 21st century. Students will become acquainted with the main events and factors shaping contemporary Armenia and analyze different interpretations of the recent and more distant past as a frame for thinking about current events and longer term scenarios for the Armenian state and nation, placing an emphasis on global and regional issues. The course will be instructor-led, supplemented by group discussion, and may include visits to cultural or historic sites as well as individual or group projects.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS130
Title: Introduction to Art
Description: This course is an introduction to the elements of art: texture, form, shape, color, line and tone/style, proportion, perspective (and for film and mobiles, time/rhythm) as aspects of an artifact, art as it is produced, and art as it is perceived. It is also a survey in both geographic and time dimensions of art as an expression of human creativity, focusing on painting, sculpture, architecture, photography and film, while making relevant connections to other aspects of culture: music, dance, ritual, literature, religion, technology, politics, commerce (advertising), and design. This course will introduce students to the language of art, increasing recognition and understanding of references in popular culture, on clothing, and in film and other media. Visits to museums and excursions will be included in the learning activities. Three hours of instructor-led class per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS201
Title: Comparative Education
Description: he course explores the impact of political and cultural differences on educational systems around the world. Utilizing a comparative approach, emphasis is placed on contrasting educational systems and practice in various countries. Major themes include educational access and equity, educational reform movements, the effects of globalization on early childhood care, issues of gender and education, and social transformation in still-developing and industrialized countries. Various case studies will be examined, to provide a broader understanding of comparative research and analysis. A seminar-style learning environment characterizes this class, where alongside lectures, critical reflection on readings, student-led discussions, group presentations, and project-based collaborative work form the main teaching framework. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS207
Title: Ethics in Public Affairs
Description: What role should ethical considerations play in public policy development? How can policy-makers complement economic, political and technological considerations with ethical ones? This course introduces students to key moral theories and methods for exploring ethical as-pects of public policy and public affairs. Specific topics covered by the course may include ethical aspects of policies on property rights, health care, environment, artificial intelligence, etc. Students will be encouraged to apply moral theories and concepts in class discussions and written assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS210
Title: Philosophy, Politics and Economics Seminar
Description: This course integrates the methods of the three component disciplines of the PPE minor. Students will apply the methods, theories and concepts learned in philosophy, politics and economics courses to various problems or policy challenges. The course aims to enable students to analyze, propose, and defend policies from an integrated perspective. Students will study a selection of readings on philosophy, politics and economics, propose their own policy study, and write a paper critically analyzing different policy options.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS211
Title: Great Books
Description: In this course students will perform close reading of classic texts in political philosophy and ethics and engage in class discussion and written reflection on the texts, comparing and tracing the evolution of key ideas with reference, as appropriate, to other texts, historical context and contemporary issues. Texts vary from year to year, drawn from different traditions and eras (e.g., Greek, Roman, European, Armenian, Russian, Eastern, American, ancient, medieval, modern, contemporary). The course does not assume background in political theory or philosophy, but does expect students to spend significant time on reading and preparing for class discussion.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS212
Title: Epistemology & Philosophy of Science
Description: This course discusses fundamental issues related to knowledge and science. The course addresses fundamental epistemological questions such as: What is knowledge? Is knowledge possible? What is truth and what are criteria of truth? Is there a priori knowledge? On what grounds is knowledge justified? What is the difference between science and truth? The course will also discuss central issues philosophy of science, such as the nature and limits of scientific knowledge, theories of scientific progress and social status of science, and differences between of natural and social sciences. Assessment will include papers, exams and presentations. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS213
Title: Symbolic Logic
Description: This course is a comprehensive introduction to symbolic logic. Topics include forms of thought, basics of categorical logic, propositional logic, predicate logic and inductive logic. In this course students will develop critical thinking skills by identifying formal structures of arguments and debates, evaluating arguments from logical standpoint, and devising ways of improving fallacious arguments. In this course students will analyze texts in natural languages and ‘translate’ them into symbolic language and back, solve problems of symbolic logic and explore ways of using symbolic logic outside the classroom.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS220
Title: The Study of History- Upper-Level
Description: The course explores one singularly important question: how do we know what we think we know about human societies and ourselves from the perspective of history, which underlies the theories and philosophies of historical research. It analyzes the development of historical thinking in the course of nearly five thousand years – from the discovery of linear time in the Ancient Near East to the current research in globalization. Explorations of social and intellectual processes shaping the search for facts, construction of historical narratives, transmission of historical memory, and interpretations of the goals and meaning of history are at the core of this course. This is an interactive course consisting of instructor’s introductory lectures to the study of each specific topic and students’ proactive work with primary sources, complemented by analysis of major texts, artifacts, and concepts. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS221
Title: Ancient Near East: History and Civilizations
Description: A critical survey of the history and civilizations of the Ancient Near East from the earliest times to the collapse of the Iranian Achaemenid Empire during the conquests of Alexander of Macedon in the fourth century BCE. The course explores especially the origins of human culture and foundations of civilizations, the revolutionary growth of technologies from the emergence of agriculture to the Iron Age; economies, ideologies, and authority in first pristine states, social stratification, secondary state formation, the formation of world’s first empires and first steps toward globalization. Geographically it covers Egypt, the Levant, Asia Minor, Mesopotamia, the Armenian Highland, Caucasus, Iran, and the southern part of Central Asia, at the same time focusing on the diversity of pathways in human history. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS222
Title: Soviet Armenia
Description: The course aims to explore the legacy of Soviet Armenia from various perspectives: political, economic, social and cultural. The course with use sectoral as well as historical approaches to the analysis of the Soviet modernization model and its lasting impact on Armenia, through case studies and comparative analysis. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
The course is taught in Armenian.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS223
Title: Armenian History 1
Description: This course examines the history of Armenia, its land and people. The course will cover history from antiquity to the early modern age (beginning of the 16th century). The course examines the geopolitical, economic, religious and socio-cultural development of Armenia and explores the relationship between Armenia and other countries. Students will critically examine historical events, processes, actors, and models of history writing. Students will work individually and in groups to integrate evidence from various sources in order to develop a greater understanding of Armenian history. Note: Most sections will be offered in Armenian. Non Republic of Armenia citizens who did not graduate from an RoA high school whose language of instruction is Armenian will be eligible to enroll in an English-language section. This is a Foundation course.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS224
Title: Armenian History 2
Description: This course covers various episodes and aspects of the history of the Armenian people and their territories, beginning with King Arshak II (4th century CE) through the establishment of the modern Republic of Armenia and renewed independence in the 21th century. The course explores the political, economic, and cultural trends within and beyond Armenia to understand Armenia’s development and identity in its global context. Students will be required to conduct independent research using primary and secondary sources to analyze contemporary issues through a historical or comparative lens and to evaluate and synthesize evidence and arguments from various disciplines, effectively communicate their ideas to a broad audience, and present their findings utilizing appropriate software and technology. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to be forward-looking, to analyze Armenia’s unique history in order to anticipate challenges and opportunities for development. Students will also be challenged to think of themselves as informed and responsible historical actors capable of positively influencing Armenia’s history. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week. Note: Most sections will be offered in Armenian. Non Republic of Armenia citizens who did not graduate from an RoA high school whose language of instruction is Armenian will be eligible to enroll in an English-language section. This is a Foundation course.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS223
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS225
Title: The Modern Middle East: Peoples, States and Societies
Description: In this course students will explore the ethnic and religious minorities in the modern Middle East. Through lectures, discussions and examination of primary and secondary sources students will critically examine the concept and role of religious and ethnic minorities in state policies and the relations between minorities, majorities and states in the wider region between Egypt and Iran. Students will discuss the meanings and limits of concepts such as “coexistence”, “tolerance”, “cosmopolitanism,” and “pluralism.”
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS230
Title: Asian Art
Description: An iconographic and aesthetic analysis of the three principal Asian religious traditions: Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic. Study of painting, sculpture and architecture as reflective of various cultures’ definitions of the Divine, life and the afterlife and value structures. Emphasis on the silk route and migration of style. Exams and final paper. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS231
Title: Armenian Visual Traditions: Illuminated Manuscripts
Description: This course is an introduction to the visual traditions of historical Armenia from the ancient period to the seventeenth century. The study of Armenian painting is largely a study of illuminated manuscripts, their texts, illustration and ornamentation. Students will become familiar with the methods of Medieval and Early Modern Armenian book illustration, codicology, paleography, and the history of the book as art object in the Armenian literary experience. In addition to examining individual illustrations in their original contexts, the course will consider the role of individual artists in transforming manuscript illumination without the infrastructure of traditional “schools” of painting. This course will include trips to local collections of Armenian manuscripts, including the Matenadaran where students will view and analyze manuscripts as well as other works on exhibit. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS232
Title: Topics in Western Art History
Description: This course introduces works of art and monumental architecture as complex cultural repositories from ancient civilizations of the West to the present. While exploring Western art, architecture and objects, students will gain familiarity with artists, their artworks and the historical contexts under which these works were conceived and produced. The course emphasizes close looking and visual analysis while using theories of visualization and visuality to examine the phenomena of cultural production and the consumption of a range of media. The course examines how images and objects function, and how they mediate what we see and experience. This course will provide students with the tools to accurately and describe works of art, iconography, stylistic developments, and the cultural and historical contexts of various sculptures, paintings and architecture. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS234
Title: Cultural Policy and Arts Management
Description: This course presents the theory and practice of cultural policy and arts management, models and instruments of cultural policy, specifics of international cultural relations, legal issues on international and national levels. The course explores interrelation of culture with economy, tourism, education, problems of cultural heritage protection, museum and art gallery management. Other topics include different types of governmental support for culture, public-private partnership, community and civil society role, public relations in cultural institutions and projects, and engagement of media industry and information technologies for promoting culture and art. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS236
Title: Baroque Era
Description: This course aims to explore the developments in Europe during the Enlightenment through the lens of the aesthetic category of the Baroque. The course examines the distinctive characteristics of the cultural, social and political spheres in the Baroque era, their interdependence, and their continuing relevance. Through close analysis of texts, political, music, painting, architecture, and intellectual history, students will develop critical thinking skills, the ability to distinguish aesthetic eras and draw parallels across disciplines, and learn to view cultures from different perspectives, while gaining knowledge that will enable life-long learning and enrich their appreciation of the lasting legacy of the Baroque. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS237
Title: 20th Century Art
Description: 20th Century Art is a survey of major fine art developments in Europe and the United States from post-impressionism to post-modernism. Media discussed include painting, sculpture and architecture. Assessment may include tests, short assignments and longer papers with focuses on theoretical and critical approaches to the analysis of art. Instructor-led class time and may include off-campus excursions.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS238
Title: Psychology of Gender
Description: The course explores the major theories and central argument in gender studies and human development, and addresses the impact of socio-economic, political, cultural and psychological forces on the development and reinforcement of gender discourse and practice. Students will explore the process of gender socialization and formation of gender roles to unearth why and how social norms, expectations and opportunities are related to gender, and how they affect the experience of gender throughout a person’s life.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS239
Title: The Age of Enlightenment
Description: In this course students will explore the intellectual and artistic developments throughout the Classical era through comprehensive analysis of music, texts, paintings, and historical events. Instructor-led class may include lectures, live/virtual performances of music, seminars, readings, analyses of music and paintings.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS241
Title: Armenian Music
Description: In this course students will explore Armenian music from its origins to the present. Armenian music will be considered in the broader context of world music and will include connections between music and literature, theater, other fields of culture, and history. Students will engage in learning through lectures and discussions, listening to music in and out of class, readings, and musical performance attendance.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS250
Title: Professional Communication in Armenian
Description: This course is designed to give students a comprehensive view of the scope and importance of professional communication in a variety of settings in Armenian. The course aims to develop students’ writing, speaking, and interpersonal skills and specific tools for communicating in professional environments. Students will learn practical skills including writing letters, resumes, proposals, managing meetings and dealing with conflict. The course is intended for native-Armenian speakers and will be taught in Armenian.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS104
Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS255
Title: Russian Professional Communication
Description: This course is designed for those who are proficient in the Russian language and who would like to feel confident using Russian language in professional life. This course focuses on developing oral and written skills in the business setting and emphasizes memo writing, business letters, publicity, oral reporting, interviewing and professional presentations. Assessment may include papers, written and oral presentations, and exams.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS256
Title: Latin Language & Literature
Description: This course aims to deepen the knowledge and understanding of Latin language and literature and their role in the evolution of European culture and society. Students will acquire a higher level of Latin reading knowledge through study of excerpts from original texts. Special emphasis will be placed on the relationship between Latin and English (vocabulary, phraseology and syntax). The course will involve study and research of Medieval European societies, culture, religion (Christianity), education, literature, philosophy and architecture. Assessment will include exams, papers, and presentations. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS156
Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS261
Title: Armenian Literature in Perspective
Description: This course exposes students to a variety of texts by Armenian and non-Armenian writers focusing on a specific historical period. Students will study the literary values of these texts to gain an understanding of how literary texts construct and reflect the collective imagination of that period. In this respect, the course discusses literary texts as the materialized aspirations of their authors on the one hand, and as the collective dream of a community on the other hand. The particular historical period will change each semester. The course is based on a semester-long student research project. In the beginning of the semester, each student chooses a cultural issue that he/she is interested in. The language of instruction in this course is Armenian and uses Armenian-language course materials.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS104
Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS262
Title: Russian Language & Literature
Description: This course, to be taught in Russian, is designed to introduce students to selected masterpieces of Russian literature and to improve their ability to read complex written works. Through understanding the biographical and historical context, main ideas, aesthetic principles and literary techniques of the most prominent Russian writers, students will develop research, writing and discussion skills that will be transferable to various disciplines and professions. Assessment will include papers, essay, exams and presentations. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS272
Title: Comparative Religion
Description: The course examines world religious traditions from a comparative perspective. Students will be introduced to the basic tenets, worldview, and practices of the major religious traditions around the world, polytheistic traditions, Asian religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, as well as new religious movements. The course will also examine the sacred texts of various religions. Upon completing the course, students should be familiar with the key beliefs and practices of the major religions and gain an appreciation of the diversity of religious experience through time and across cultures. The course also aims to equip students with concepts and frames for thinking critically about the relationship of Christianity to other religious traditions and comparing the dogmatic, doctrinal and ritualistic practices within various religious traditions. The course combines lectures, in-class discussions, and analytical essays. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS280
Title: Clinical Psychology
Description: Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. This course will review theories of the mind and investigate normal human growth and development. We will examine the life cycle of man from infancy to old age. Personality disorders, neurosis, psychoses, substance abuse and developmental disabilities will be presented. The class will include assessment of the individual by clinical interview. The types of psychological tests that a clinical psychologist uses to assess individuals will be identified. An overview of current treatments of emotional disturbances with medication will be presented. Discussion of relevant topics in the field of clinical psychology will include ethics, educational, industrial, sports and forensic issues. Research methods will be introduced. The course will conclude with a review of current therapeutic modalities. Three hours of instructor-led class per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS281
Title: Human Development and Personality
Description: This course provides an overview of the major theories and topics in human development and to the major topics in personality formation. Topics include theories on normal human growth and the human lifecycle from infancy to old age, with special attention to learning, temperament, personality. Special attention will be paid to childhood development. Upon completing the course, student should gain an understanding of how human thinking, learning, and physical abilities vary and evolve at different ages and stages, and how these various aspects of development influence one another. Assessment includes tests, paper, case studies and presentations. Three hours of instructor-led class per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS286
Title: Comparative Genocide
Description: In this course students will explore in-depth themes related to the phenomenon of genocide with emphasis on a comparative analysis of the Armenian genocide, the Holocaust, the Cambodian genocide, and Rwandan genocides. Themes include causes, similarities and peculiarities of these genocides, perpetrators/rescuers issues, genocide reparations and remedies, international reaction, genocide prevention. Assessment may include essays, projects, presentations, and quizzes.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS185 OR CHSS187
Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS288
Title: Modern Turkey
Description: This course explores modern Turkey from an interdisciplinary perspective, focusing on historical and current trends in the country’s politics, society and culture. Topics may include nationalism, statecraft, modernization, secularism, religion, minorities, foreign policy, and Armenian-Turkish relations. As a seminar-style course, students will be expected to participate in and lead discussions on readings. Assessment may include class participation, tests, papers, and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS290
Title: Cultural Geography
Description: This course is an interdisciplinary course that uses cultural habitats as a window on how individuals and groups develop their societies and way of life, coexisting with neighbors and shaping and being shaped by their environment. Geographers study ‘culture’ to understand the ways in which culture is constructed, maintained, diffused, and sometimes contested within space and place. The diversity of human culture is embedded in our shared geographies and is used as a force of inclusion, exclusion, and power. This course examines the varied perspectives and processes that shape our everyday experiences and seeks to raise awareness of the plurality of cultural landscapes. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS292
Title: Gender and Social Change
Description: This course is an interdisciplinary women’s studies course with a global perspective, covering various theoretical and empirical approaches from the humanities and social sciences and political, economic and cultural perspectives. The course explores the dynamic ways in which gender is defined and evolves, as a social institution, and how those definitions affect power relations in society, including issues of class, race, ethnicity, and politics, and the impact of gender equality on development outcomes. The course will also take a comparative perspective, looking the local situation in an effort to understanding the role of women in the family and society. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS293
Title: Armenian Studies
Description: This course introduces students to the Armenian Studies as an interdisciplinary subject, including sources and artifacts of Armenian history and culture, research methods, digital and other resources. Topics include ancient and modern written sources, secondary sources, schools of thought, comparative and historical approaches to literature, art, music, and other aspects of Armenian studies. This course will be taught in Armenian. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS294
Title: Advanced Studies in Gender
Description: In this course students will engage in close reading of relevant literature exploring theories and methodologies in Gender Studies to analyze the ways in which gender works in society. Students will examine the genealogy of gender as a concept through various schools of thought.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS189
Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS295
Title: Special Topics in the Arts
Description: Course description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS296
Title: Special Topics in Social Sciences
Description: Course description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS297
Title: Research Projects in Gender Studies
Description: This course directs students to identify major questions in Gender Studies and design a research project. The course will equip students with a deep understanding of qualitative research methods in Gender Studies both in terms of collecting data and ways of interpretation. It will acquaint them with discussions of politics of knowledge production and feminist situated ethics of ethnography. The course will also focus on developing the project and learning how to use methods such as narrative, visual, and sound analysis, self-study, biographical and autobiographical inquiry in their fieldwork and post-fieldwork processes. The class will be conducted in seminar-style, where alongside lectures, critical reflection on readings, student-led discussions, presentations, and project-based collaborative work form the main teaching framework.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: CHSS189
Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: CHSS298
Title: Independent Study
Description: nan
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: CTR
Course Code: CTR380
Title: Introduction to Translation Studies
Description: The aim of this course is to introduce students to critical discussions in translation studies and to help them develop a language (vocabulary) and discourse (manner) for analyzing translations as well as contextualize and evaluate translations in a constructive manner. Students are encouraged to view translation as a process, involving planning, drafting, and revision for clarity and precision. They are required to complete short readings and weekly writing assignments, which may include but are not limited to response papers, vocabulary journals, and translations from a range of texts from across the disciplines.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: CTR
Course Code: CTR381
Title: History and Theories of Translation
Description: This course aims to investigate the history of translation and the theories that have accompanied the changing roles of translation in the societies where they have been put into practice. Translation is viewed here as a factor that has contributed to shifts in intellectual, literary and cultural trends. This course also examines the main theoretical concepts currently discussed in translation studies, and demonstrates how they influence translation in practice. By taking a discourse and intercultural studies approach, rather than a purely linguistic approach, this course explores the impact of translation as a force for change and trace the ways in which texts are received by readers in different cultural contexts.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: CTR
Course Code: CTR382
Title: Practicum in Translation
Description: The practicum component aims to consolidate the theory and practice of translation covered in the previous courses. The course helps student translators develop and expand their own translating and editing techniques, and to facilitate the integration of their skills and knowledge through largescale practice. It enables students to translate a wide variety of genres in professional areas (literary, medicine, law, business, etc.) so that they can make informed choices about their own professional future. Students are guided through their apprenticeship in stages—observation, controlled practice of translation techniques, and increasingly difficult and lengthy texts. Throughout the practicum, students receive constructive feedback and assistance and evaluate peer performance.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: CTR
Course Code: CTR383
Title: Consecutive & Simultaneous Interpreting
Description: Consecutive and Simultaneous Interpreting is a course grounded in theory and practice and specifically set up to train professional interpreters. The course offers students an opportunity to get acquainted with the theoretical and professional frameworks of consecutive and simultaneous interpreting. Students will learn to interpret in various professional areas such as literature, medicine, law, business, etc. Worksite learning is a key component of the course during which students will perform live interpreting tasks under supervision and shadow professional interpreters at work.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: CTR
Course Code: CTR384
Title: Contrastive Text Linguistics for Translators
Description: An introduction to the fundamental technique of comparative linguistics, including the comparison of the phonological and morphological systems, syntax and lexicon of Armenian and English, this course emphasizes the important relationship between these two languages. Through lectures, analytical exercises, and individual and collective translation workshops, students learn about the problems and possibilities of communication between these languages through a translator’s perspective. Evaluation components include, among others, active participation in class discussions, oral and written comparative analyses of translated texts from a linguistic point of view.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: CTR
Course Code: CTR385
Title: Special Topics in Translation
Description: This course explores topics in translation theory and practice with emphasis on current problems and research. Topics to be announced prior to course registration.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC101
Title: Freshman Seminar 1
Description: This course aims to build students’ communication and critical thinking skills, while introducing them to AUA’s core values: academic excellence, free inquiry, integrity, and scholarship. Throughout the semester, students will sharpen their oral and written communication skills by engaging in class discussions and debates, as well as by utilizing the various stages of the writing process to produce well-organized paragraphs and essays. Teaching students to balance personal voice and academic discourse, the course emphasizes academic skills such as critical reading, summarizing texts, synthesizing sources, developing a thesis and supporting it with evidence. This is a Foundation course.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC102
Title: Freshman Seminar 2
Description: Building on the skills and concepts introduced in Freshman Seminar 1, this course aims to further improve students’ communication and critical thinking skills while exploring key AUA values, such as mutual respect, citizenship, leadership, community building, sustainability, and service to society. Through close examination of a variety of texts, students will learn to construct arguments and communicate persuasively. They will also develop research, problem-solving, and teamwork skills through class discussions, collaborative projects, and writing assignments. This is a Foundation course.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC101
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC103
Title: Introduction to Language and Culture
Description: This course provides an overview of the structural, biological, and historical aspects of language and focuses on the socio-cultural aspect—the connections between language and culture, and the ways in which language is used in various cultural and social contexts. Examples of regional variation, social variation, ethnicity, gender, age, style, register, and the status of the speaker’s language will be discussed and illustrated during the course. Students are required to complete weekly reading assignments. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC104
Title: Introduction to Communications
Description: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of communication studies. Students will examine the components of human communication as it takes place within interpersonal, group, organizational, and public contexts and become familiar with the historical development of mass media and its role in society, looking at the print and electronic news media, advertising, public relations, and the Internet. Students will also explore developments in the theory of communication from the mid-20th century to the present. They will apply theoretical models to critically assess contemporary means and patterns of communication and use these models to analyze and develop their own written and oral communication in different formats. Course work will include media and reading assignments, as well as case studies and oral and written projects. Three hours of instructorled class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC105
Title: Introduction to the Structure of English
Description: This course is a systematic introduction to the structure of the English language. Students will acquire knowledge of the morphology, syntax, and phonology of contemporary English. They will explore the interrelation of form, meaning, and use and apply linguistic knowledge in the analysis of their own and others’ communication. Students are required to complete weekly reading assignments and home tasks in order to acquire knowledge of the concepts discussed in class. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC120
Title: American Literature I
Description: This survey course introduces students to American literature from the beginning of European contact to roughly 1900, focusing on major authors and different literary genres. It examines the historical influences on the evolution of this body of literature and the construction of a distinct and complex American identity. Through close reading, class discussion and their own research and writing, students will explore how themes such as gender, race, class, spirituality, economics, and the environment play a role in the American experience.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC121
Title: English Literature I
Description: This course introduces students to English literature from the Anglo-Saxon period until roughly 1800, focusing on the development of various literary movements and genres. The class will cover canonical authors like Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Swift, but will also include less canonical English literature from the period, especially from female authors, to provide context and balance. Students are required to write analytical essays and complete weekly reading assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC130
Title: Introduction to Journalism
Description: This course examines the nature of journalism as an area of mass media, its history and role in creating public opinion and disseminating information, and the impact of technology on journalism today. Students will be introduced to the meaning of “news” definition, qualities of, evaluation and selection, and channels and audiences for news. The theoretical part of the course is paired with the actual practice of journalism: reporting (gathering information), exploring news values, news styles, form and organization of news stories, and writing various types of news: hard news, features, interviews, and critiques. Students will be required to complete weekly reading and writing assignments. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC140
Title: Expository Writing
Description: This course is designed to develop students’ writing skills for use in a wide array of academic and professional contexts. Students will become familiar with the linguistic and rhetorical features of different genres of objective and informational writing, critically analyzing samples of effective writing in order to use them as models for their own work. They will be encouraged to view writing as a process, involving planning, drafting, and revision for clarity and precision. Students are required to complete short readings and weekly writing assignments, which may include but are not necessarily limited to summaries, reports, memos, narratives, expository analyses, and syntheses. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week, along with in-class and take-home assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC141
Title: Persuasive Writing
Description: This course is designed to develop students’ persuasive writing skills for use in a wide array of academic and professional contexts. Students will become familiar with the structural and rhetorical features of formulating and communicating arguments in a persuasive manner, taking into consideration such factors as audience, reasoning, evidence, and style. They will be encouraged to view writing as a process, involving planning, drafting, and revision for clarity and precision. Students are required to complete short readings and weekly writing assignments, which may include but are not limited to persuasive essays, letters, reviews, and proposals.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC151
Title: Consecutive and Simultaneous Interpreting
Description: This course introduces the theory, research, and practice of consecutive and simultaneous interpreting. It focuses on the practical techniques and skills of consecutive and simultaneous interpreting from English into Armenian and from Armenian into English within a variety of professional areas and for a range of purposes. The course also aims at furthering students’ command of both Armenian and English through interpreting exercises and thematic glossaries. Students are expected to complete weekly readings and other home assignments and be prepared for in-class discussions, tasks, and interpretation practice. Three hours of instructor-led class per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102, CHSS104
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC191
Title: Acting Techniques
Description: This course introduces students to the process of building a character and interacting on stage using movement, voice, and imagination. Throughout the course, students will explore techniques of improvisation and scene study, and develop the basic skills of the acting process. They will become familiar with the history and theory of the craft of acting, and apply relevant concepts and practices to critically analyze their own work and that of others. Coursework will include reading assignments, written critiques and reflections, and performance-based projects.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC200
Title: Introduction to Discourse Analysis
Description: This course introduces students to the study of discourse through hands-on analysis of real language in use, taking into account the linguistic features and functions of spoken, written, and multi-modal communication as well as the social, cultural, and political contexts in which it occurs. We will explore how meaning is created and relationships are enacted within and across an array of genres and use this knowledge to interpret and construct texts within different social and professional contexts. Course work will include reading assignments, written analyses, and practical application. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC103 OR EC105
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC201
Title: Photography
Description: Photography is a fundamental element of today’s digital media. This course introduces the practical techniques and aesthetic principles of still photography and explores different genres of photography and their uses. The course aims to develop an understanding of such aspects of photography as depth of field, composition, motion blur, and visual storytelling through both critical analysis and hands-on shooting and editing exercises. The course will also include such topics as the history of photography and the role it plays in the changing media landscape. Instructor-led discussion and workshops, with reading, writing, and photographic assignments. Note: Previously EC268, Theme 1
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC202
Title: Lens on Armenia: Photojournalism in Yerevan
Description: In this course students will learn digital photography as it relates to the journalistic process, documentary work and fine art. Students will examine professional photography, techniques for image capture and camera handling and works, as well as post-production methods in order to tell visual narratives. Students will create individual and group portfolios for exhibition. Assignments are designed to help students attain solid photo coverage of the topics and issues in Yerevan or throughout Armenia. Excursions in Yerevan neighborhoods and possibly to sites outside of Yerevan will help students appreciate the history and culture of Yerevan. Students should have a camera with them in class every day. Some phone cameras are sufficient. Some cameras may be available for check out on campus on a first come first serve basis.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC203
Title: Creative Productions
Description: Creative Production is an advanced, interdisciplinary course covering the theory, analysis and practice of producing creative works in various media. The theoretical component has two inter-related elements: (1) Articles on the theories on creativity, imagination, aesthetic emotions, (2) Works of Art (literature, film, animation, TV, fine art and photography, etc.) carefully chosen as illustrative examples of those theories. The practical component includes different creative exercises, experiences, workshops, etc., and a semester-long creative production (written work, theater monologue/duologue/scene, musical video, short film script, photo stories etc.) that students will choose to realize individually or in a team. This final production will be accompanied by a reflection paper. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC204
Title: Topics in Cinema
Description: Cinema is a “universal language”, a multidimensional medium for telling stories and portraying reality from different perspectives to large, diverse and often dispersed audiences through sight and sound. Topics in Cinema examines a wide range of subjects in global cinema relating to both the artistry and socio-cultural significance of movies. The course will explore such topics as genre, international cinema, film criticism, and the role of film in society as it touches on such subjects as cultural identity, history, race and gender, and societal change. Instructor-led film viewing and discussion, along with reading and writing assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC205
Title: Women/Gender and the Visual Arts
Description: Western artistic production and criticism has been monopolized by male heterosexual spectatorship. The result has been an artistic tradition beset with gendered perceptions and a discourse whose objective is to regulate and marginalize the voices of “others.” It is therefore necessary to reread the texts and look afresh at art to expose the fallacies. Topics to be discussed include: mythmaking, the formulation of sexual ideals of beauty, spectatorship and the gaze, feminist theory, gay studies, naked/nude, and constructs of pornography. Exams and papers foster a critical mindset and a sensitivity to biases latent within the realm of art. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC206
Title: Music & Literature
Description: This course looks at the cross-disciplinary connections between literature and music. Having a long history of mutual influence, literature and music share common concepts and historical contexts. These commonalities are examined from the point of view of stage works, such as operas and ballets based on classical fiction literature or religious texts; other vocal or choral compositions based on works by great poets; program music directly influenced by literature or philosophical texts; common use of different terms regarding the prosody; existence of certain common musical and literary forms, as well as musical influences in literature and/or poetry and comparison of different styles in both spheres. The course requires listening to music in and out of class, extensive reading (both classical literature and articles or research papers on different literature- and music-related topics), engaging in class discussion and presentations, as well as writing short papers.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: EC208
Title: Modern Poetry
Description: This course is designed to develop students’ skills in analysis, critical thinking, and communication. From 1890-1950 the western world went through a profound transformation that involved industrialization, two world wars, the erosion of colonialism, the rise of psychology, Fascism, Communism, and other massive historical events. At the same time, there was an explosion of innovative literary and artistic output to make sense of all these intense changes: it became a movement known as Modernism. In this course students will engage with various modernist texts which may include poetry, fiction, essays, and also art, films, and music. They will be expected to keep a reading journal and/or write in-class responses to readings. Students will be required to participate in class discussions and give one presentation to the class. There will be a mid-term exam, final exam, quizzes, as well as written assignments. Three hours of instructor-led discussions per week, along with in-class and take home assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC213
Title: Digital Literacy and Multimodal Composition
Description: This course will offer students the opportunity to explore digital reading and writing practices by accounting for the rhetorical, social, cultural, political, educational, and ethical dimensions of the digital texts. While we unpack the term “digital literacy” and practice multimodal composing, we will study how we construct identity, subjectivity, and representation in digital spaces. Students will both get acquainted with the theoretical foundations of multimodal composition and develop highly transferable digital composition and rhetorical skills, which they can use to compose across different curricular, academic, professional, and personal contexts.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC104, EC140 OR EC200
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC220
Title: American Literature 2
Description: This survey course introduces students to 20th and 21st century American literature, focusing on major authors and different literary genres. It examines the historical influences on the evolution of this body of literature and the continuing evolution of a distinct and complex American identity. Through close reading, class discussion and their own research and writing, students will explore how themes such as gender, race, class, spirituality, economics, and the environment play a role in the American experience.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC221
Title: English Literature 2
Description: This course introduces students to 19th, 20th, and 21st-century English literature, focusing on the development of various literary movements and genres. The class will cover canonical authors, but will also include less canonical English literature from the period, especially from female and minority authors, to provide context and balance. Students are required to write analytical essays and complete weekly reading assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC222
Title: World Literature 2
Description: This world literature course is designed to engage students in critical analysis of significant literary texts from around the world. The aim is to explore perspectives on society and culture through the study of writers from diverse backgrounds working in various literary genres. Possible themes may include transnationalism, moral ambiguities across cultures, the transition from colonial to postcolonial, or the nature of translation. Through discussions and written assignments, students will improve their critical thinking, analytical writing, and oral communication skills. All texts will be read in English translation. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC120 OR EC121
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC223
Title: Shakespeare
Description: This course offers an in-depth exploration of Shakespearean poetry and drama, including his tragedies, comedies, histories, and romances. The class will focus on cultural and formal features within Shakespeare’s writings as well as cultural trends that Shakespeare responded to and helped shape. Students will learn to apply literary theory in their analysis of the texts, to compare and contrast adaptations of Shakespeare’s works produced in different periods and cultures, and to embed these interpretations within the cultural history of the Shakespearean corpus. Assignments will include a mix of class discussions, presentations, and papers that involve both research and close reading of Shakespeare’s texts.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC121
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC225
Title: Short Fiction
Description: This course explores short fiction from major world literary figures, further developing students’ knowledge of and ability to read and analyze literature. Students will engage in close reading of the texts and consider form and content in relation to the historical context and the relevant literary and philosophical movement(s) of the time, addressing issues such as tradition, modernity, conflict, war, injustice and freedom. The course aims to deepen students’ skills in interpreting texts with awareness of the texts’ basic orientation in the world (historical, philosophical, religious, linguistic, etc.); constructing arguments and evaluating canons using appropriate evidence and tools of critical analysis; and developing an appreciation of the fundamental ambiguities and complexities involved in all human attempts to answer questions about life. Instructor-led discussion, along with reading and written assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC120 OR EC121
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC226
Title: Speculative Fiction: Science Fiction, Fantasy and the Fantastic
Description: This course explores the genre of speculative fiction, which encompasses science fiction, fantasy fiction, and the fantastic (or horror), and spans counter-culture and mainstream works from ancient Greece to the present day. Through close reading and interdisciplinary analysis students will develop an in-depth understanding of the genre and the issues—science and technology, the supernatural, human nature, and human consciousness, among others—that it aims to address. Instructor-led discussion, along with reading and written assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC120 OR EC121
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC228
Title: Children’s Literature
Description: Children’s literature plays an important role in the transmission of cultural values from one generation to the next. In this course, students will critically analyze a range of children’s literature and also create a work of their own. Students will read folk and fairy tales from different cultures and a variety of children’s books, and analyze selected pieces based on psychological and social studies of childhood and the influence of literature on the development of children. Students will engage in research on some aspect of child development vis-à-vis exposure to fairy tales, folk tales, or books, and produce a complete (text and pictures) book for children. Instructor-led discussion, along with reading and written assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC120 OR EC121
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC229
Title: Graphic Novel
Description: This course combines cultural and political approaches to investigate one of the most influential and rapidly growing forms of literature: comics. Popular, yet historically considered lowbrow, graphic novels are now critically recognized as an important form in the creative arts. This course reflects an interdisciplinary approach to knowledge, combining visual arts, journalism, fiction and memoire. Students will develop the critical skills necessary to read, understand, write and produce graphic narratives. They will explore works that define the genre while illustrating a variety of artistic and storytelling approaches to contemporary cultural and political themes, and selections from comic history and graphic narrative theory. Instructor led lectures and discussions.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC120 OR EC121
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC231
Title: Public Speaking
Description: This course aims to develop students’ speaking skills for a variety of public and professional situations. Students will explore fundamental principles and practice of public oratory with an emphasis on all phases of communication: conception, design, organization, research, writing, rehearsal, and delivery. Students will gain skills and confidence in conveying and modulating message and meaning in different registers through formal and extemporaneous public speeches, expository/informative and persuasive presentations for public meetings and conferences, and other speaking tasks. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week, plus in-class and take-home assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC232
Title: Public Relations
Description: This course explores the role of the public relations practitioner as a specialist in both internal and external communication, an analyst of public opinion, and a counselor to administrators and corporate leaders. It examines the theories and practices of public relations and provides students with opportunities to implement their skills and knowledge in authentic tasks, including developing a public relation plan, designing activities and events aimed at managing an organization’s reputation, and working with the media. Students are required to complete weekly reading assignments and in-class and home tasks to acquire knowledge of the topics covered in class. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC233
Title: Professional Communication
Description: Effective written and spoken communication is a core competency for professional and public life. This course is designed to give students a comprehensive view of the scope and importance of professional communication in a variety of settings. It aims to develop students’ writing, speaking, and interpersonal skills and specific tools for communicating in complex environments and accomplishing strategic academic and professional goals. Students will refine communication skills necessary for internships and permanent workplace positions. More specifically, students will gain skills in writing letters, emails, resumes, proposals, formal and informal reports, agendas, and work plans with an awareness of succinct written expression necessary for professional communication. Students will develop informative, persuasive, and extemporaneous oral skills for networking, telephone, Internet-based and face-to-face interviews, and presentations. Because effective group communication is a necessity in today’s workplace, students will learn and practice skills in managing meetings, dealing with conflict, and leveraging the power of diversity, at both the individual and cultural level. Students are required to complete weekly assignments in order to acquire knowledge of the topics discussed in class. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week, plus in-class and take-home assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140 or EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC234
Title: Advertising
Description: Advertising and marketing communications are a pervasive presence in modern life and an essential skill for communications professionals. This course explores the principles and practices of advertising and its role within marketing communications. Students will develop a critical understanding of how advertising functions in global and local contexts and become familiar with the components of the advertising process, including market research, media planning, and creative strategies. They will learn how to identify the target audience, determine which medium or combinations of media provide the best means to reach it, and create effective messages. Students are required to complete weekly reading assignments and in-class and home tasks to acquire the knowledge of the topics covered in class. Three-hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC237
Title: Introduction to Filmmaking
Description: Film is the medium of our age, combining audio, visual, symbolic and narrative elements to produce impactful messages. This course is designed to empower students with the ability to express themselves and communicate effectively in the medium of film, providing them with an understanding of how and why films are made. Students will learn the core principles and techniques of filmmaking, both in theory and practice. The course will combine discussions on the history, language, forms and functions of film with hands-on technical instruction in developing projects from start to finish (planning, shooting, editing). Students will collaborate in teams to create short films focusing on specific skills and concepts. They will complete written assignments, and view and critique a selection of films and each other’s work in class.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC238
Title: Media & Society
Description: This course builds upon Introduction to Communications (EC104) and explores historical and contemporary issues in the interaction between media and society. Students will examine and develop critical perspectives on media and the interplay between media institutions, media content, and culture. The course will introduce major theories used in analyzing media and its effects, as well as examine the characteristics of individual media: newspapers, magazines, books, radio, television, film, the Internet, and social media. The core concepts of media ethics will also be discussed. Course work will include media and reading assignments, as well as collaborative media projects. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC104
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC240
Title: Creative Writing-Fiction
Description: This course is designed to develop students’ fiction writing skills by exploring various genres and conventions of fiction. Students will become familiar with literary forms, styles, and traditions, critically analyzing samples in order to improve their own work. The core of this course is based on original student writing, therefore students will be required to submit short work on a weekly basis, depending on the genre and focus. They will be encouraged to view writing as a creative process, involving honest exploration of ideas and the imagination. They will practice free-writing, drafting, and revision for clarity, precision, and literary effect. Students will also be required to actively participate during each class, discussing assigned texts and other students’ writings. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week, along with in-class and take-home assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140 or EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC241
Title: Scriptwriting
Description: This advanced writing course will cover the most important aspects of the art and craft of script writing. Students are expected to learn and develop the techniques for generating ideas, the drafting process, classical screenplay structure, conflict, characterization, dialogue, how to write visually, scene structure, revision, how to analyze original work, and provide peer feedback. Students will learn how to write an original script from conception of an original idea through the outlining process and onto a finished short script of about 50 pages. Classes will involve lectures, discussion, analysis, critical thinking, and workshopping.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC242
Title: Writing for Industry
Description: This advanced writing course is aimed at building the skills needed to produce clear and effective technical and scientific writing in areas that may include but are not limited to computer science, earth science, engineering, business, finance, and medicine. Students will learn how to follow conventions of technical writing for whichever purpose they write, such as proposals, manuals, scientific reports, and technical documents. Regular assignments include readings, analyzing and critiquing sample papers, collecting and researching information and data, drafting, self- and peer revision. Students are required to complete weekly reading and writing assignments in order to acquire knowledge of the concepts discussed in class and integrate them into their own writing. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week including discussions and tasks.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140, EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC243
Title: Creative Non-Fiction
Description: This course aims to familiarize students with various forms of creative non-fiction writing such as memoir, photo-essays, and new journalism. We will read examples of great, as well as problematic, essays that use different forms of personal narrative and reporting. Students will practice drafting, researching, fact-checking, interviewing, and revisions. They will also be required to actively participate in class, discussing assigned readings and other students’ work. One of the aims of this course is for students to produce polished and well-supported writing that a journal might be interested in publishing.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140 OR EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC244
Title: Writing for Media
Description: Working in media today demands flexibility, creativity, and critical awareness of the art and practice of writing in an ever-changing media environment. This course builds upon students’ basic writing skills by developing the skills used in writing for different media, with an emphasis on reporting, public relations, advertising, and professional communication. Students will explore theory and practice in writing for print, television, radio, and the internet, including traditional websites as well as blogs, social media, and other new media. They will analyze content, style, format, and other features of writing, and apply their understandings to their own written production. Students are required to complete weekly reading and writing assignments in order to acquire knowledge of the concepts discussed in class and integrate them into their own writing. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week including discussions and tasks.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140, EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC246
Title: Business and Data Journalism
Description: This class gives students practice in business and data journalism. Students will explain and analyze the financial and business activities in an economy and use open source research and data to produce compelling stories and infographics. Students will collect recent historic data and write about well-known public firms such as Tesla, Disney, and Twitter. They will pursue various interviewing, research, and data collection strategies; learn to weigh and evaluate evidence in financial reports, and synthesize existing scholarship and data to write articles in creative and cogent ways. This course will focus on global companies as well as Armenian firms. Students will also read and critique business articles from leading financial publications such as the Financial Times and the Wall Street Journal. Instructor-led discussions, team reporting, reading and writing assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC249
Title: Creative Writing: Poetry
Description: This course offers students the opportunity to hone their creative writing skills, with a focus on poetry. Students will develop a working understanding of prosody and versification with which to explore various poetic forms, their traditional and modern iterations in the work of historic and living poets, and the relationship between form and content. This course promises a robust grounding in form poetry, before embarking on modern and experimental methods such as free verse, blackout/erasure poetry, and found poetry. Through seminar-style discussions and weekly self- and peer critiques, students will be encouraged to write, share, edit, and revise their own work and others’, as well as respond to set readings which will bolster their understanding of genre and form. Over the semester, while building a portfolio of creative and reflective assignments, students will build confidence in their written and oral work as they fine-tune their skills in poetry, both on the page and in performance.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140 or EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC250
Title: Introduction to Translation
Description: This course aims to provide students with an understanding of the field of translation and the basic skills necessary to begin translating texts from English to Armenian and Armenian to English. Students will become familiar with the major practical and theoretical approaches and methods to translation. They will be encouraged to view translation as a process, involving planning, drafting, and revision for clarity and precision. Students are required to complete short readings and weekly writing assignments, which may include but are not limited to response papers, vocabulary journals, and translations from a range of texts from various disciplines. Three hours of instructor-led discussions per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140, EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC251
Title: Media Translation
Description: This course builds the skills necessary to translate media content, including news articles, editorials, opinion pieces, press releases, website content, blog entries, film/video subtitles, captions, and other types of media texts from English to Armenian and vice versa. Since media translation is not strictly a matter of interlingual transfer but also necessitates the rewriting and synthesizing of the source text to accommodate a different set of audience expectations, students will learn to apply hybrid methods of translation to attain a given purpose. They will be required to maneuver through the constraints of time and space to which media translators are often subject. The course includes weekly reading and translation assignments, comparative workshops, individual and group presentations via instructor-led discussions.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC238, EC130 or EC250
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC253
Title: Literary Translation
Description: This course familiarizes students with the history, theory and practice of literary translation. Students are encouraged to view translation as a creative process similar to that of creative writing. The aim of the course is to help students cultivate general translation techniques while focusing specifically on stylistic and semantic creativity in a workshop setting. Assignments include short readings and weekly writing assignments, which may include but are not limited to response papers, vocabulary journals, and translations from a range of texts from different literary genres. Knowledge of Armenian is required. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week including lecture, seminar, workshop discussions.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC240 OR EC250, CHSS104
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC260
Title: Negotiation
Description: Almost every interaction of daily life involves some kind of negotiation process, thus negotiation is broadly conceived to be a form of communicative activity encompassing business, professional and personal life. This course aims to develop students’ negotiation and persuasion skills by introducing them to new paradigms for collaborative problem solving, starting with when and why people negotiate After presenting different styles and models of negotiation, the course considers the effectiveness of each and teaches tools and frameworks to better prepare for negotiation; e.g., an understanding of the different elements at play, awareness of trust and relationship-building dynamics, modes of persuasion, active listening skills, and strategic thinking and analysis skills. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week, plus in-class and take-home assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC261
Title: Special Topics in Comparative Media Studies
Description: This interdisciplinary course explores media from a global and comparative perspective, examining how media forms transcend national boundaries and create new cultural spaces with their own perspectives and values. Topics might include how various national, ethnic, gendered, and sexual identities are represented through media, how traditional media is adapting to digital environments, and how media blurs the line between popular culture and politics. Student performance will be assessed through individual and/or group written and oral presentations, case studies and/or essays.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC262
Title: Film and Video Editing
Description: Students will build upon the visual storytelling techniques they learned in Introduction to Filmmaking. In addition to further exploration of cinematic grammar, narrative structure, theory and history, they will study the art of the documentary and the specific techniques and approaches to applying their storytelling skills to a non-fiction format. During the course students will conceive and complete a long-form fiction or documentary project. Students will develop their ideas from treatment to screenplay and then work collaboratively in crews to realize their projects, expanding their knowledge and experience in every phase of production. Each student will be required to critique and explain their own and each other’s work in classroom discussions and written assignments. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC264
Title: Public Relations Campaigns
Description: In this skills-based course students explore the strategic management of public relations through analyzing and developing campaigns and projects. They will create strategic proposals and tailor their writing for various purposes and text-types, developing practical, analytical, and creative skills needed for careers in PR. Students will have the opportunity to build a professional portfolio and take part in other professional activities. They may also have the opportunity of job shadowing and site visit opportunities, to observe and collect information from professionals on the job. Besides the instruction led meetings there will be job shadowing and site visit opportunities for the students to observe and collect information from professionals on the job. Instructor-led discussion, along with reading, written, and practical assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC265
Title: The Language of Film
Description: Cinema has evolved a complex system of conventions to tell stories and communicate ideas. This revolutionary and unique system of recording and assembling images and sound has been compared to language, involving a kind of cinematic “grammar”. In this course, students will learn to study cinema from a critical perspective. They will view a broad selection of films from a variety of genres to explore how motion pictures are designed to express meaning, and to analyze and relate their content and form. Students will complete written assignments as well as readings on filmmaking, film history, theory, and criticism.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC269
Title: Visual Communication
Description: This course explores the principles of visual communication and the fundamental rules that govern our interaction with information in forms that can be read or seen. It provides students with theoretical and practical skills for working with various forms of visual presentation, affording them the ability to relate the concepts of design to the physical world (buildings, art, landscapes, etc.), to the world of ideas (how design influences our thinking and thought processes), and to the world of imagination (how we think of design, and how to apply this creatively). The course will also address such topics as the history of visual communications, the development of writing systems, artistic movements, typography, calligraphy, and poster design. Students will apply course concepts in written analyses and graphic design projects. Instructor led discussion.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC104
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC270
Title: Media & Politics
Description: This course examines the complex relations between media and political systems, exploring the role of the media in politics and its links with political institutions, processes and actors. Students will apply theoretical understandings in the critical analysis of political communication, journalism, and new media, as they study both global trends and local realities. Instructor-led lectures and discussions, with coursework including theoretical analysis, case studies, and practical application.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC104
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC271
Title: Digital Media: Theory and Industries
Description: This course explores the complex interactions among digital media, culture and society. It will make students familiar with theoretical and industrial frameworks surrounding digital media. Students will study and analyse different forms of digital media to learn how their information and discourses are communicated audiovisually and to develop critical perspectives on the interplay between media institutions, content, and culture.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC238
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC275
Title: Critical Theory in Literature
Description: This course is designed to give students a strong grounding in the various schools of critical theory used by literature and cultural studies scholars. Students will be introduced to such major approaches as structuralism, deconstruction, psychoanalytic criticism, post-Marxism, feminist criticism, and queer theory. They will also explore some of the directions that critical theory has taken in the 21st century (e.g. disability studies, posthumanism, critical animal studies, affect theory, etc.) Students will be expected to engage in discussion, presentations, and frequent writing assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC104, EC120, EC121, EC140 OR EC141
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC279
Title: Graphic Design
Description: This course introduces students to a practice-based, hands-on approach to visual communication design. Students will learn the about vector and raster graphics, how to design with specific audiences in mind, and edit images using some of the most commonly used photo editing software in the visual design industry. Students will investigate further the elements and principles of design, color theory, visual perception theories, typography, symbols, brand identity, logos, and UI/UX design. Emphasis will be placed on the ability to conceive new and innovative solutions for specified communication issues. Students will also share their work and learn to take part in design critiques and discussions, as both designers and peers. Readings and viewings of relevant films are a required component of the course.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC237 OR EC262 OR EC268 or EC269
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC280
Title: Oral History
Description: Memory work, through the medium of oral history, offers the opportunity to examine the connections between public and personal history, marginalized lives and silences. This course introduces students to the theory and practice of oral history, critically examining ethical considerations, memory work, oral evidence, interpretive conflict, and “sharing authority” in researcher and participant relationships. Leading students to complete oral history projects of their own, various forms of outputs will also be discussed including life story narratives, archival documentation, co-narrating with participants, public pedagogy, advocacy, and research creation projects. Alongside instructor-led lectures students will engage in close readings, presentations, critical reflection, group discussions, and collaborative team work in preparation for oral history fieldwork.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC290
Title: Research Methods
Description: This course introduces students to research methods in one or more of the following fields: English literature, linguistics, translation, writing studies, communications, and/or media studies. Students will refine their skills of library research as they identify and formulate research questions. They will explore the whole process of research: identifying promising research topics, developing specific research questions, applying suitable research approaches to answer those questions, analyzing their results, and finally presenting their findings. Students are expected to complete regular assignments in order to acquire knowledge and practice skills discussed in class.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC103, EC104, EC105, EC120, EC121, EC130, EC140, EC141, EC200, EC238
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC291
Title: Advanced Academic Writing
Description: Building upon previous coursework in undergraduate-level academic writing, this course introduces students to the academic writing skills needed for higher-level scholarship, preparing them for their capstone project and professional writing both inside and outside the academy. Through a series of scaffolded assignments, students in this course gain familiarity with the genres and conventions of academic writing. They also develop advanced research literacy: navigating scholarly databases, assessing source material, identifying how academic sources are in conversation with each other. As such, students will read, evaluate, and write abstracts, literature reviews, methodology sections, and other components of academic texts, learning the rhetorical moves and styles of scholarly writing while producing their own work, culminating in an original capstone proposal.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC140, EC141, EC295
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC295
Title: Special Topics
Description: nan
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC102
Corequisites:
Program: BAEC
Course Code: EC299
Title: Capstone
Description: The capstone provides students with the opportunity to investigate an area of academic and professional interest while building upon the knowledge and skills they have acquired through their English & Communication coursework. As the culminating experience for the BA in English & Communications degree, the capstone course is designed to be highly individualized. The topics and format are proposed by the student subject to approval of a capstone adviser with expertise in the field. Topics should be well aligned with the student’s background and interests. Formats include academic research paper, a creative or practical project, or suitable internship, plus a portfolio of written work. The course combines instructor-led class meetings, class discussions, presentations and individual consultations with advisers.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: EC290 or CHSS297
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: HRSJ142
Title: Introduction to Human Rights
Description: The Introduction to Human Rights course will introduce students to the key concepts, rules and debates in the theory and the practice of contemporary international human rights. In particular, the course focuses on the historical development and philosophical and political foundations of human rights. Students will also explore international and national mechanisms for the protection of human rights, e.g. UN treaty and charter mechanisms, European systems of human rights protection, national judiciaries, human rights institutions and civil society organizations. Students will examine selected human rights and freedoms in order to understand human rights in practice. At the end of the course students learn the national and international legal grounds for limitations and derogations from human rights. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: HRSJ210
Title: Genocide Studies and Human Rights Seminar
Description: This upper-level interdisciplinary course explores in-depth one or more themes the phenomenon of genocide as a gross violation of human rights through class discussion, research and presentations. Themes may include genocide prevention and education, genocide reparations and remedies, genocide interventions and righteous/rescuers, and will vary from year to year. Assessment based on class preparation, contribution to class discussion, final presentation. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ301
Title: Seminar in Human Rights and Social Justice
Description: As a core and foundation course for the MA Program, it aims to equip students with fundamental knowledge on various dimensions of human rights, emphasizing its historical, theoretical and philosophical foundations. Students will master the key human rights concepts and vocabulary, gain knowledge on the main international human rights protection systems, as well as become knowledgeable about the recurrent debates and controversies related to human rights.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ302
Title: Justice, Knowledge, and Change
Description: The course combines theory and practice to critically question how various actors work for social change. Taught in parallel to HRSJ 307 (Foundations of Social Science Research), HRSJ 302 offers a complementary space for reflection on producing knowledge, which is turned towards change. It asks how we define and respond to injustice, providing frameworks to consider the power relationships inherent in those processes. Human rights practitioners are invited to class to discuss how they identify and respond to a particular issue in their work. HRSJ 302 will provide you with a toolkit of critical questions leading towards HRSJ 303 (Project Development, Monitoring, & Evaluation), where you will put these questions into action.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ303
Title: Project Development, Monitoring, & Evaluation
Description: Moving from identifying a problem to developing and implementing a proposal responding to that problem is a key challenge for governments, public sector organizations, and civil society organizations alike. This course develops the skills and knowledge needed to manage that process. Emphasizing practical, project-based work, it covers how to define and articulate a project scope, identify and engage key stakeholders, and define roles, responsibilities, and deadlines within a team. It also looks at how to benchmark, monitor, and evaluate whether your project is achieving its stated goals. Participants will also be introduced to the role of the project manager and the fundamental concepts and competencies necessary to lead human rights and social justice projects.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ304
Title: Contemporary Challenges in Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
Description: The course aims to discuss and analyze economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR)
as a subcategory of human rights. The course will focus on the historical, theoretical, and practical
development of ESCR, including international instruments and jurisprudence. Specific rights such as the
right to decent work, social security, adequate living standards, housing, food, health, education, and
culture will be discussed in detail with a particular emphasis on the current economic, social and cultural
challenges facing Armenia and the region. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ305
Title: Social Justice and Identity
Description: Taking an intersectional approach, this course explores the relationship between social justice and identities/identifiers including gender, sexuality, ‘race’ and ethnicity, disability, religion, and class. It asks how identity is constructed and explores its lived social reality. It links questions of identity construction with analysis of how power relationships and structures of domination drive inequity across different social identities, statuses, and groups. It examines experiences of inequity on both individual and structural levels. Finally, it explores responses to those inequities, taking in both (a) state policy and (b) civil society and social movements’ response, as well as the interplay between the two.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ306
Title: Human Rights in Action
Description: This course aims to introduce human rights in action, especially during the application of criminal justice institutes. Important institutes such as arrest and other compulsory measures as detention and other restraint measures (choosing or changing them), the proving, including investigative actions, proceedings involving minors and other vulnerable groups, and the basic content of fundamental human rights (conditions for their implementation, participants’ rights, responsibilities) will be introduced. The above institutes will be represented within the framework of judicial protection (including within the review proceedings)․
The course will be carried out using the methods of presenting theoretical materials and then solving practical problems. In particular, the topics will be accompanied by the presentation of the study of a specific case/cases and their domestic/national and international legal regulations.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ307
Title: Foundations of Social Science Research
Description: Research and evidence production are crucial to both advocacy and intervention design. This course therefore introduces you to common methods and standards in qualitative and quantitative research. It develops your ability to critically analyse research, enabling you to both challenge others’ claims and yourself propose relevant research designs to answer specific questions. This will support you to conduct your own empirical research as part of the master’s thesis project and beyond. In line with HRSJ 302, the course encourages reflection on the ethics of research. It also questions how we construct knowledge and recognize expertise, as well as how our values and positionality shape knowledge production.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ308
Title: Law and Religion
Description: nan
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ309
Title: Human Rights in the Security Sector
Description: Human Rights in the Security Sector will present the link between security and human rights is important. This link is reinforced if we consider that human rights define human security. Individual, international, and national developments require the protection of human rights; therefore, there is no security without the protection of human rights. Development requires respect for human rights, and respect for human rights prevents conflicts. Using the concept of human rights in the security sector helps actors like the police and the military to understand their role as duty-bearers in providing security as a public service to the people – the rights-holders. Security sector and human rights are also closely associated with democracy and the rule of law. The course will introduce such specific areas as: border security and human rights; conditions of detention and imprisonment, prohibition of torture; ill-treatment prevention issues by police and in police detention facilities; this will also include other law-enforcement bodies; right to a fair trial, etc.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ310
Title: The Human Rights Clinic
Description: The Human Rights Clinic is optional; students may choose to complete the clinic or an internship over two months period. The Human Rights Clinic will provide students with the opportunity to acquire hands-on experience under supervision. Students will apply the knowledge gained in human rights to practical situations thereby engaging directly with current human rights issues in their legal jurisdictions, local communities, or more globally. The clinic will run part-time. The first two weeks will propose a schedule of more intensive, practitioner and academic-led training. The subsequent six weeks will be composed of regular group meetings and supervision from the faculty supervisor. Students will select one of two tracks and complete small-group projects within them: Legal Clinic and Social Justice Clinic. Projects employ a variety of methods and may support social science research, litigation, advocacy, policy and program development, or extend technical guidance on human rights to civil society organizations, national human rights institutions, governments, UN human rights bodies and other international organizations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ311
Title: Internship
Description: The AUA HRSJ Internship program provides Graduate students with a unique chance to gain experience in the field of human rights and justice, explore new interests, develop skills and create a network of contacts. As interns, students will be actively engaged in an intensive learning experience with local and international human rights experts and policymakers, thus promoting their personal and professional growth. The internship is optional. It will run part-time over two month’s period. Throughout the internship the intern will receive direct and close supervision and instructions by the supervisors of the hosting institution. Every intern will be given a list of tasks to be performed at the hosting institution.
Credits: 6.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ312
Title: Master’s Thesis
Description: The master’s thesis allows students to independently research a question of their own choosing. It is an opportunity to develop expertise in the chosen area, requiring substantial reading and, where appropriate, empirical research. Students will be supervised by MA HRSJ faculty, with whom you will have regular meetings individually and/or in small groups to discuss and develop your work. The master’s thesis course will also propose whole-group meetings to discuss key aspects of the thesis. These include academic writing and citation practices, reviewing and synthesizing literature, and designing research questions.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ313
Title: International Human Rights Advocacy
Description: This course is dedicated to constitutional and legislative mechanisms for advocating individual human rights and public interest affairs. This includes administrative and judicial remedies of individual rights protection. The course pays a specific attention to judicial proceedings: administrative, civil, criminal and constitutional (e.g. preparation of defense).Students are invited to observe court trials to be equipped with both theoretical and practical knowledge and skills. Students will learn how to reveal systemic problems hindering protection of individual human rights and the use of systemic remedies to overcome these problems. This includes obtaining knowledge on law-making processes within the Government and Parliamentary initiatives, as well as internal processes within these institutions. The course also discusses competences of the Government, Parliament and the President of the Republic in the context of the system of checks and balances and their effects on the effectiveness of the public advocacy process. All the mentioned issues are discussed based on examples of concrete rights and their protection (right to liberty and security; right to a fair trial, right to freedom of speech, etc.). [Formerly: Public Advocacy]
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ314
Title: Environmental Rights and Justice
Description: The course presents the foundations and principles of environmental rights and justice. It focuses on developing a broad understanding of factors that shape the emergence and perpetuation of environmental injustice, including mechanisms that give rise to class, gender, and other forms of inequity. Students will learn the causes and consequences of inequitable distributions of environmental benefits and hazards, and how to analyze and address inequalities in the distribution of environmental benefits and burdens from the perspectives of environmental policy and law. Students will practice cost-benefit and risk analysis in relationship to environmental injustices
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAHRSJ
Course Code: HRSJ334
Title: European Human Rights Protection Mechanisms
Description: The course provides an overview of the main mechanisms of human rights protection in Europe. Students explore human rights protection mechanisms under the Council of Europe Convention on Human Rights, the European Social Charter, the Convention for the Prevention of Torture and others. Jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights and human rights documents of the Council of Europe, OSCE, European Union will be studied as well. Students also examine the possibilities of human rights protection through standard-setting and monitoring mechanisms in Europe.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD300
Title: Research Methods in International Relations
Description: This foundational course aims at providing graduate students with the necessary tools to conduct research in social sciences, in general and International Relations in particular. The course will introduce various research methods to help students collect, analyze and interpret research data in their subsequent graduate work as well as in preparation for their Master’s Theses.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD301
Title: Foundations of International Relations
Description: Utilizing a mix of historical and conceptual frameworks, this course introduces students to past and current debates about the nature of IR and how various theories attempt to make sense of global politics. Some of the theories to be discussed include: (neo)realism, idealism, liberalism, institutionalism, structuralism and Marxism. By looking at the historical development of the field as well as the evolution of the international system, students will engage in conceptual discussions which will help them better grasp the complexities of IR as a discipline.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD302
Title: Theory & Practice of Diplomacy
Description: Widely recognized as a tool for pursuing a range of interests of countries vis-à-vis others, diplomacy today has morphed from its original context of state-to-state relations to a more multilateral and multi-vector series of activities. The course looks at the mechanisms (institutions, strategies and processes) that diplomacy utilizes in today’s ever-changing world. By looking at both the principals and practice of diplomacy, students are expected to have a solid grasp on how to analyze diplomatic practices in the contemporary world.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD303
Title: Development Policy and Strategy
Description: This graduate seminar adopts a multidimensional understanding of global development as both economic growth and human improvement, as a balance between the market-induced and state- led, and a confluence of individual agency and collective action. The first part of the course focuses on assessing the main theories of development. The second part of course prompts students to explore some of the key questions concerning poverty reduction and global inequality. Finally, the course reflect on what ‘sustainable’ development looks like in today’s dynamic, ever-complex world.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD310
Title: International Organizations and Global Governance
Description: The course explores the numerous ways in which states have brought order and organization to their international conduct, with special emphasis on the functions and activities of formal international institutions. It will look at how states, working within international organizations, have developed multilateral working relations in spheres such as security, finance, banking, trade, international law, environment, and migration. Non-governmental and informal transnational networks will also be explored in an attempt to explain the role and function of international and transnational institutions in tackling issues in contemporary global governance.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD311
Title: International Security
Description: As the contemporary global political environment is fast-changing, so is the idea and perception of threats. These days the nature of threat ranges from political and social to energy and environmental. The aim of this course is to examine how states respond to what they perceive as threats and what kind of institutional and policy mechanisms they use to tackle those challenges. Combining conceptual and theoretical frameworks with case studies, students will analyze how states deal with security threats unilaterally or collectively.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD312
Title: Foreign Policy Analysis
Description: The focus of this course is to examine how states, big and small, formulate and implement their foreign policies, both in theoretical and practical terms. Students will explore the theoretical foundations of foreign policy-making in both legal and political domains, followed by process- oriented analysis of foreign policy decision-making in select countries and how that affects the conduct of diplomacy. While the course will focus on domestic (f)actors influencing foreign policy making (state institutions, leaders, political parties, regime type, etc.), external factors such as membership in organizations, prevailing regional and international environment, etc. will also be considered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD313
Title: Country Risk Analysis
Description: The way countries are perceived and the way they perceive others is based on multiple factors. This course will explore how national and international institutions and factors influence a country’s stability and ability to conduct business and statecraft. Utilizing various indicators and events (such as elections, mass demonstrations, governance, economic and trade laws, business environment, etc.) in comparative perspective, students in this course will develop skills necessary to asses a country’s fragility or robustness. Some of the risk analyses will include domains such as: economic, socio-political, environmental, cybersecurity, etc.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD314
Title: International Negotiations
Description: Using theoretical and practical approach, the course will familiarize students with various aspects and components of negotiations in the context of diplomatic relations as well as within international organizations. While not central to the focus of the course, negotiations to diffuse inter-state tensions and prevention of conflict will be examined. An emphasis will be put on the various stages of negotiation and how to conduct multiparty negotiations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD320
Title: Caucasus Regional Politics
Description: The course provides an insight into regional political developments in the South Caucasus. Features of political cultures, traditions of statehood and key domestic developments in Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan and Georgia will be addressed along with Armenia’s relations with those countries.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD321
Title: Russian Politics
Description: This course examines various aspects that determine and shape politics in Russia today including but not limited to: institutions of policy making, relationships between various branches of government, foreign policy making, the role of political parties and media. The course is designed to cover a wide array of issues to elucidate not only the current aspects of Russian politics but also looking at the legacy of the Soviet Union and its influence on politics and society in modern Russia.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD322
Title: Middle East Politics
Description: The Middle East is widely associated with an area of conflicting global and regional interests. By learning about key questions and debates in the region (Arab-Israeli conflict, Syrian civil war, Iraq- Iran conflict etc.), the course aims to give students a critical understanding of politics and political processes in the Middle East. Topics may include “persistent authoritarianism”, political Islam, sectarian violence, economic development and underdevelopment, social mobilization and the foundations of the Arab Spring.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD323
Title: Politics of the European Union
Description: The course aims to theorize and understand the key patterns of the EU’s political activity and its organizational engagement through analyzing key institutions and processes that enable the European Union to be an actor and to be active in a range of policy sectors. The course will also critically examine the strengths and weaknesses of substantive EU policies pursued in internal and external arenas which will help to reflect on strategic considerations and particular policy programmes of the European Union.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD324
Title: Armenian Politics and Diplomacy
Description: The course aims at providing an in-depth understanding of major turning points of Armenian political transition since the late 1980s. It is organized thematically and plans to discuss a set of questions including, but not limited to: democratic transition, institutional, socio-political, and demographic, developments in post-Soviet Armenia. Key issues of foreign policy and diplomacy as well as questions related to the impact of the Artsakh conflict on Armenia’s domestic politics and foreign relations will also be considered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD325
Title: Small States in Global Politics
Description: This course provides a general overview of the challenges and limitations of small states in world politics. To tackle these issues, the course will first try to define the concept of “small state” and its historical evolution, after which a detailed examination of the issues that small states face in contemporary world politics will be analyzed. Some of the areas to be examined include: foreign policy and diplomacy; economic constraints and advantages; development of domestic institutions; democracy and public opinion; and nationalism as a response to globalization.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD330
Title: Environmental Policy Seminar
Description: The aim of this graduate seminar is to broadly introduce the tools, approaches and institutions that govern political decision-making in the field of environmental conservation and natural resource management. The course consists of four major topics that address global versus local environmental policy-making, environmental ethics, techniques of environmental analysis, and public participation and multi-level collaboration. Special emphasis is placed in assessing the strengths and challenges of citizen involvement in environmental issues, and the evolving role of government to meet trans-boundary challenges posed by the environment.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD331
Title: International Political Economy
Description: The study of global economy requires an understanding of both politics and international economic transactions. This course will situate current international economic issues and theories as they relate to the interaction of states at a global level. The role of state policies vis-à-vis trade, business and finance will be examined, as well the impact of non-state and trans-state actors in shaping the contemporary IPE environment.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD332
Title: Ethics and Morality in World Politics
Description: Just war, human rights protection, justice and similar concepts are often used in international politics by states to justify their actions. However these concepts sometimes go beyond lip-service and may be the basis of inter-state relations. The course will rely on a conceptual framework as well as case studies to have an in depth understanding of the role that ethics and morality play in shaping world politics.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD333
Title: International Conflicts & Human Rights
Description: This course covers various issues pertaining to conflicts of international character to better understand the environment of modern conflicts and possibilities of conflict resolution. The issues of global governance will be explored to understand international mechanisms that are currently employed for conflict prevention and resolution, such as the role of humanitarian and human rights organizations and international tribunals, in parallel with more conventional means such as peacekeeping missions or third-party mediation.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD340
Title: Topics in International Relations
Description: Course content varies by semester when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD341
Title: Topics in Diplomacy
Description: Course content varies by semester when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD342
Title: Independent Study
Description: This course is designed to permit students to design and complete a course of study under the supervision of an instructor for credit. Such courses typically address a special area of interest of the student and instructor outside the standard offerings of the program and have an interdisciplinary or research components. The course must include a co-designed syllabus and evidence of learning equivalent to 1-3 credit course. Independent study courses are subject to the instructor’s approval and Program Chair’s consent.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD390
Title: Internship
Description: Prerequisite: Completion of at least 24 credits
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD399
Title: MA Thesis Prospectus
Description: Prerequisite: Completion of at least 24 credits
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAIRD
Course Code: IRD400
Title: MA Thesis
Description: Prerequisite: IRD 399
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: IRD399
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN300
Title: Newswriting
Description: An introduction to the fundamentals of crafting news stories. This includes how to write a lead, the “inverted pyramid,” grammar, punctuation, use of quotes, sourcing of facts, and other fundamental skills. This is a “learning by doing” class, which will involve daily writing assignments. Students will be taught in English. Those fluent in Armenian will be required to write a second version of at least some articles in Armenian.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN305
Title: Introduction to Digital Skills
Description: The AUA multiplatform journalism degree prepares students to produce news stories on every media “platform” – print, broadcast, radio, and the internet. This requires a basic knowledge of the digital tools used for production, beginning with the smart phone. This course will introduce students to “mobile journalism,” the use of mobile phones to capture professional-quality audio and video, basic audio and video editing software, and basic video cameras. This is a hands-on course, with students sent into the field to create audio and video segments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN306
Title: Journalism and Democracy
Description: The central theme of this course is the role of journalism in democratic societies. It will examine
Armenian journalism: past, present, and future; the evolution of journalism in the Caucasus and
internationally, the global war on truth; the challenges of misinformation and disinformation around the
world; the importance of fact-based reporting; and the protections and challenges of media law and
freedom of information in Armenia and the region.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN310
Title: Data Journalism
Description: Data journalism plays an increasingly important role in media today. This course shows how to
understand and critically assess statistical information and how to present that information in engaging
and accurate ways visually. Students learn how to efficiently scrape data from various official websites,
create and manipulate data in databases to find new insights, and work with data visualization programs
to create powerful stories.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites: JRN315
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN315
Title: Multimedia Journalism 1
Description: This course is one of two pillars of the Multiplatform Journalism MA. The course will begin by introducing students to the many aspects of the craft of journalism. Modules will cover ethics and responsibility, critical thinking, basic approaches to reporting, how to research news stories, the art of
interviewing, how to cover breaking news stories, and the essentials of multimedia storytelling. All of these topics will be set in an international context, exploring what can be learned from journalism in other parts of the world.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN316
Title: Reporting Critical Societal Issues
Description: Building on the knowledge acquired in the Fall semester of this course, Spring semester will involve modules on a range of critical issues in Armenia, the broader Caucasus region, and internationally, such as health, business and the economy, technology, women and society, humanitarian law, and refugee and minority rights. For one-third of this course, students will take EVN 300: Natural Environment and Humans. In the remainder of the course, students will do a “deep dive” into a rotating set of issues, taught in 2-to-3-week blocks. The goal is to familiarize them with the issues, not make them experts. The course will combine aspects of a seminar and a practicum, with students assigned to produce a story on each of the topics presented. Flexibility is built into this course to allow the introduction of new, topical issues and take advantage of the expertise of visiting faculty. This course includes the ENV 300 course as one of the rotating topics during the semester.
Credits: 4.0
Prerequisites: JRN305, JRN315
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN320
Title: Newsroom Practice 1
Description: This is the second pillar of the program; a working newsroom where students put into practice what they have been taught in the above classes. Students will produce multimedia content for a current affairs website. This will include text stories, photographs, video segments, and studio-based interviews. Through the year, they will rotate through all the roles in an actual multiplatform newsroom, from reporter to chief editor. This is when they hold planning sessions and story conferences, get their assignments, and confer with editors on the progress or challenges they are encountering in the process of producing their stories.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites: JRN315
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN325
Title: Multimedia Journalism 2
Description: This is a continuation of the foundational course by the same name in the fall semester. Modules in this semester include data journalism; narrative (longform) journalism; investigative journalism; enterprise reporting; intellectual property law and plagiarism, both in Armenia and abroad; digital media journalism, and an introduction to television reporting, in which students will be exposed to the operations of a professional television studio at a partner organization.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: JRN315
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN326
Title: Covering Conflict
Description: The recent history of the Caucasus and neighboring regions underlines the need for journalists to be prepared to cover conflict. This involves learning ways to safely and accurately report in the midst of combat, but also to deal with the physical and emotional challenges of those who witness war. Students will learn to report on the victims of war and trauma with empathy and balance, and to consider how patriotism and nationalism shape coverage of war. They will also be taught digital security, to protect themselves and their sources from government surveillance both on the battlefield and far from the front.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: IRD325
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN330
Title: Newsroom Practice 2
Description: This is a continuation of the Fall semester course, with journalistic roles continuing to rotate, and an expectation that the quality will continue to improve. Content that will be published includes stories produced for the Specialized Reporting class.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites: JRN325
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN340
Title: Media Business, Entrepreneurship, & Innovation
Description: The media industry is in a constant state of change. This course will involve modules that tackle key issues, trends, and challenges both in Armenia and abroad. These include the business structure of news organizations in Armenia and abroad, emerging business models, the rise of entrepreneurial journalism, newsroom technology, the evolving use of social media, and tomorrow’s tech, such as AI and VR, as well as additional developments on the media landscape. Students will learn about the latest efforts to revitalize the news business in the U.S. and Europe, where organizations are experimenting with nonprofit models and worker-owned newsrooms.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: JRN306
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN360
Title: Capstone Project
Description: The multimedia capstone project is a significant piece of enterprise reporting that brings together the skills and knowledge the student has acquired through the entirety of the program. It will involve a level of work equivalent to that of a thesis. The project will focus on one of the specializations studied (e.g. politics, health, environment, technology, etc.) and will be delivered for publication in the medium of their choice (e.g. print and video; print and audio). This is not a single news story; it might involve a magazine-length article, a documentary, a radio series, or similar significant piece of in-depth journalism, with accompanying version in another media format. Students will receive approval for their capstone project during the Spring semester and must complete it by the end of their internship. The capstone is required for graduation.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MAMJ
Course Code: JRN380
Title: Internship
Description: Students will be placed in full-time internships lasting a minimum of six weeks in newsrooms in Armenia and, for the top students when funding is available, a short fellowship in media organizations abroad. The internship will take place in the summer following completion of courses.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: LLM101
Title: Law in Everyday Life
Description: This course presents the basic principles of law as we experience it in everyday life. It aims to inform students about their rights, duties and the predictable interactions people have with the legal system, from law enforcement to taxes and family law. Students will learn how law is made, how it is applied in courts and by administrative bodies, how it regulates private relations and relations between the citizen and the state, through analysis and discussion about situations and cases from real life. Assessment will include tests, papers, and presentations. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: LLM110
Title: Introduction to Armenian Justice System
Description: This course explains the institutions and processes of the Armenian justice system as they affect the lives of citizens, businesses and government agencies, including general courts, specialized courts, criminal, civil and administrative processes. The course aims to equip students to understand their rights and remedies for violation of rights, as well as the role of various government bodies, courts, police, prosecutors, regulators, in the administration and establishment of justice in Armenian society. Instructor-led course will draw on case studies to examine a range of common situations students, citizens, and businesses face in everyday life.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: LLM160
Title: Law and Justice in Popular Culture
Description: This course explores how legal concepts, role models, and professional ethos in popular culture promote and reinforce the rule of law. The course aims to explore how dedicated individuals using the skills and arts of persuasive and knowledge of the law can expand justice in their societies by the use of legal mechanisms. Through the medium of film and literature followed by class discussion, the following basic concepts are reviewed: social contract theory, professional ethics, rule of law (e.g. resort to courts and legal structures to resolve conflict as an alternative to violence), comparative review of legal systems (e.g. use of juries, class action mechanisms, etc.) and standard defendant rights (right against self‐incrimination, right to counsel), professional responsibility for attorneys and judicial ethics, and legal advocacy.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: LLM201
Title: Armenian Constitution
Description: The course aims to present the evolution, structure and content of the Armenian Constitution in historical and comparative perspective. The course will analyze the Armenian Constitution and its role in social, economic, and political life, including such topics as the separation of powers, the system of checks and balances, supremacy of the constitution, constitutional rights and values, and the roles, powers and responsibilities of various constitutionally defined government structures, including the President, the National Assembly, the Government, judiciary and local self-government bodies. Special emphasis will be placed on direct application of constitutional provisions, including the protection of fundamental civil and human rights. Instructor-led discussion, along with reading and written assignments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: LLM202
Title: Legal Anthropology
Description: This course aims at introducing and discussing issues on law-abiding and law-making behavior in its broader cultural context as an aspect of human society. Topics include development/establishment of norms, their relation to justice, cultural values, social structures, and institutions, and means of promotion of compliance in different societies through socialization, education, enforcement and punishment. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: LLM262
Title: Public Advocacy
Description: Increasingly lawyers, because of their insight into public policy, are called upon to use their skills to advocate in the court of public opinion and other fora beyond the formal courtroom and deliberative assembly. This course aims to equip students with models and skills to be effective public advocates. In addition to learning theoretical models and case studies, students will be called upon to design advocacy strategies and make written and oral presentations in simulations of public deliberation
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM300
Title: International Legal English
Description: This course introduces students to English terminology and constructs related to basic legal concepts and general aspects of legal systems. The course also teaches students to perform legal practice skills in English as they relate to the following commercial law topics: company formation and management; capitalization; contract negotiation; remedies and assignment; employment issues; sale of goods law; real and intellectual property problems; negotiable instruments; secured transactions; debtor‐creditor interactions; and competition law. More than other fields, precision and competence in written expression is a tool of the legal profession. The course reinforces core reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in English and prepares students to obtain the International Legal English Certification upon successful completion of the ILEC exam. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM304
Title: Legal Methods and Argumentation
Description: This course is a legal problem solving based introduction to legal method and legal analysis as practiced in Western law today. Students will learn basic research skills, sources of precedent, the role of precedent and the development of precedent in the common law, the reading and “briefing” of cases, the reading and interpretation of statutes, the legal analysis of factual problems, objective legal writing (IRAC method) and basic legal argument. Argumentation is the use of effective reasoning to persuasively communicate an idea or position. Since classical times, argumentation has been a highly valued skill, even an art form. In this course, students will learn how to make deductive and inductive arguments; how to identify and utilize the elements of rhetoric; how to evaluate the claims, evidence, and inferences underlying arguments; how to understand and manipulate burdens of proof; and generally how to identify and utilize other argumentation frameworks and techniques. To complete the course students must present an argument, field questions from the class and/or participate in a formal debate with another student.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM305
Title: Legal Profession
Description: This course will examine the basic rules that govern the conduct of lawyers with respect to their clients, third parties and the courts, using as a guide case law, ethics opinions, the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, the New York Rules of Professional Conduct and Rules on Advocate’s behavior in the Republic of Armenia. The emphasis will be on practical, real-world application of the rules, principally in a law firm setting. Among the topics that will be covered are the formation and termination of the attorney-client relationship, conflicts of interest, client confidentiality, attorney-client privilege, special issues relating to corporate clients, multijurisdictional and unauthorized practice, and legal malpractice and discipline. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM310
Title: RA Civil Law Basics
Description: This course will introduce the Civil Law thorough understanding of such fundamental categories as natural or legal persons, joint-stock companies, contracts and torts. It examines the basic principles of the Armenian Civil law and provides an understanding of private law basics, as it sets out the norms of conduct in both daily life and commercial activities. To that the Course will enable enhanced understanding of the Civil Code’s place as a cornerstone of all private law, followed by examination of the legal status of natural and legal persons, property law and transactions. The course will also incorporate instruction on the basics of contract law, including the most common contract varieties, as well as tort and inheritance law. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week. For non-LLBs.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM315
Title: Survey of American Law
Description: This course aims to give an overview of American law for non-US-lawyers. It approaches American law from a comparative, systemic point of view. The course examines the institutions, processes and main substantive areas of US law, viewing US legal system as a well-developed model, whose operation, evolution, problems and trends are well studied and documented. The course requires extensive reading of primary US materials (court decisions, statutes, regulations) as well as secondary sources on US legal doctrines and the American/common law way of thinking about legal problems. Upon completing the course, students should be able to identify the typical ways legal issues are handled in the US system in various common fields of law and to be able to explain them in terms of other legal systems they may be familiar with, e.g., the Armenian or continental legal systems. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM318
Title: Introduction to American Law
Description: This course introduces the United States legal system and is designed specifically for students who come from jurisdictions other than the U.S. During the course the students will learn about the State and Federal judicial system of the United States, structures and functions of different legal institutions. They will learn about the legal concepts specific to common law and will be introduced to major landmark cases that have become the bases of the nowadays-legal system. The topics will include jury trials, subject matter and personal jurisdiction, etc. The students will be offered to compare and discuss the peculiarities of the American law with the laws and concepts of own jurisdictions.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM319
Title: Topics in American Law
Description: Course Description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM320
Title: Comparative Constitutionalism
Description: This course discusses theories of constitutionalism in the context of current challenges facing liberal democracy globally. Using methodologies for a comparative analysis of constitutions and constitutional jurisprudence across time and jurisdiction and elaborating upon institutional transplants and borrowings, students will critically analyze defining concepts and structures such as limited government, separation of powers, human rights and the rule of law. Concentrating on constitutional norms, practices and institutions in Armenia in the larger social and political contexts, the course will examine selected problems concerning constitution-building and the design of core institutions, including those defining the form of government and government formation and accountability, constitutional change and entrenchment, constitutional adjudication, as well as fundamental rights in times of emergency and political turbulence.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM328
Title: Introduction to Labor Law
Description: This course examines international and national legislation governing issues related to labor law (such as: fair and equal treatment, workplace safety, etc.), as well as issues related to safety of personal information (personal data) and labor contract information confidentiality at the workplace. The course will be focusing on International Labour Organization (ILO) core conventions and adopted principles, the US and EU employments peculiarities including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as review of Armenian Labor Code’s guiding main principles. Nevertheless, the primary focus of the course will be on national labor law. The course will also have analytical and practical assignments on labor contract drafting and court case study examples.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM330
Title: European Union Law
Description: This course gives an overview of the European Union institutional and legal structure, its foundation documents, and regulatory framework, as well as issues relating to transactions and economic activity in the EU. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM334
Title: European Convention on Human Rights
Description: This course gives an overview of the European Convention on Human Rights and the procedures for appealing cases to the ECHR. Topics include applicability of ECHR in domestic courts, a survey of the most important ECHR precedents and trends. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM339
Title: Topics in European Law
Description: Course Description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM340
Title: Public International Law
Description: From a legal problem solving perspective this course explores public international law in both an Armenian and regional context. Topics reviewed include sources of public international law and its contemporary development, the expanding scope of international actors (including non‐State actors like corporations), the utility of international and domestic fora and reviewing modern day challenges to future public international law development. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM341
Title: International Law from an Armenian Perspective
Description: This problem-oriented course aims is to teach students the specifics of rules of international law as they apply to Armenia and Armenian issues. Topics will include current international law issues facing Armenia, including the Nagorno-Karabagh conflict, EU-Armenia relations, Armenia-Turkey Relations, national security and trans-border environmental and cultural heritage issues. The course is practice oriented, going beyond analysis of applicable legal norms and precedents to consider available enforcement mechanisms, and remedies. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM342
Title: Human Rights Law
Description: By presenting legal problems for discussion and resolution, this course introduces students to the principles and the practice of contemporary human rights law in the world and in an Armenian context. Attention is given to the development of individual claims against states regarding issues of torture; civil and political rights; economic, social and cultural rights; and women and ethnic minority rights. Also explored are contemporary challenges to international humanitarian law and individual accountability through the development of international criminal law. Sources of law reviewed include international treaties, customary law and Armenian legislation. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM344
Title: International Criminal Law
Description: International criminal law is a rapidly growing modern discipline of law. The historical goal for the development of this discipline was to end the impunity of individuals responsible for mass atrocities. International criminal law is a body of law containing legal provisions, institutions and traditions from pubic international law, comparative criminal law and human rights law. One of the aims of this course is to introduce students the key areas of international criminal law by engaging them in reading, researching, problem solving exercises and discussion regarding the most important aspects of this discipline. The other aim of this course is to promote interest in international criminal law among the members of the legal community of Armenia. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM345
Title: Human Rights & Criminal Justice
Description: In this course students explore a number of fundamental human rights that are applicable during criminal procedure from the moment of arrest to the final appellate decision. These criminal justice rights are examined in various situations where such a right may compete with other values and public interests, e.g. effective control of and fight against criminality. It is in such situations that different societies or decision-makers and policy-makers engage with complex and often controversial choices. The first part of this course will concentrate on pre-trial rights in the phase of investigation, while the second part focuses on trial rights during trial and appellate phases. The last two classes conclude this course by exploring the causes and solutions of ‘wrongful convictions’, a phenomenon that draws increasing attention in parallel to technological and scientific development. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM348
Title: International Humanitarian Law
Description: This course immerses students in the principles and the practice of contemporary International Humanitarian Law through an evolving complex case study. To teach advocacy and analytical skills, students are assigned various roles as they represent the interests of conflicting parties, divergent governmental interests and international organizations. Specific areas of IHL addressed include the qualification of armed conflicts, legal protections for non‐combatants, prisoners of war, civilians, and cultural property as well as legal limits on the use of weaponry. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM349
Title: Topics in PIL
Description: Course Description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM350
Title: Business Organizations
Description: This course focuses on the formation and structure of corporations, their governance, the role and relations of shareholders and other stakeholders, differences between commercial and non-profit corporations, and differences between limited and transparent entities. The course will also examine capital structures, types of securities, financing structures and tactics, open and closed companies, corporate taxation, as well as transactions and documents involved in corporate formation and management. The course will have particular emphasis on international corporations, by examining both Armenian and foreign legislation and practice.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM351
Title: Project Financing
Description: Project financing has become an increasingly preferred and used method of a combination of financing and investment. Although different methods of project financing are used in developed countries, in developing countries it is mostly used for implementation of major infrastructural projects, such as construction of roads, power plants, gas and oil pipelines, refineries, etc. It is also used in mining exploration, exploitation and development as well as in development of large industries, such as construction, equipping and putting into operation of large industrial complexes. The course is intended to offer practical knowledge of some more common types of project financing such as Export Credit, Buy-Back, BOT and BOOT aimed at providing the participants with the necessary skills for examination, commenting on negotiating such contracts. It is also aimed at improving the contract drafting skills of the participants.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM352
Title: International Business Transactions
Description: This course covers basic international sales of goods and services transactions, leasing, licensing, as well as investment, financial and secured transactions, and the typical kinds of documents and issues practitioners and client face in such transactions, including choice of law, dispute resolution, intellectual property, security, authority, custom s, tax and other regulatory matters. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM353
Title: Banking and Securities Regulation
Description: It will not be an exaggeration to say that financial sector as one of the main drivers of a national economy is also most heavily regulated one, and that is true for jurisdictions throughout the world. The course is intended introduce the students to the fundamental principles and targets of banking and securities market regulation, the regulation logic and goals it seeks to achieve. The course focuses on the regulatory regime of financing of businesses, their interaction with professional market participants, investors and regulators. It is structured in way that allows the students to capture general ideas and principles applicable worldwide as well as to get sense of peculiarities of Armenian financial regulatory system. After completing this course, students will be able to understand the regulatory goals and tools of market efficiency, investor protection and financial stability. Throughout the course financial regulation and policies will be discussed both at the domestic and international level. The course will help the students critically evaluate new developments in banking and securities regulation and their implementation in different contexts.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM354
Title: Tax Law
Description: National taxation plays an important role in the public and economic policy of any country, serving many ends: economic, social, political, moral to name a few. However, in light of increasing crossborder mobility of goods, services, capital and labor, taxes became a crucial tool for international policy and economic competition. This course is an introduction to international aspects of taxation with particular focus on tax competition, double taxation treaties, transfer pricing. The course will also examine how the tax system of Armenia is facing the challenges posed by the rapidly integrating global economy. The Armenian perspective on each of the major topics discussed will be presented throughout the course. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM355
Title: Corporate Governance
Description: The Corporate Governance course presents and examines the main theories and practical issues of corporate structure, agency problem, shareholder primacy, control, as well as boardroom structure, strategies, corporate officials’ compensation. The course will also present the current discussions on newly emerging and developing financial investment mechanisms, such as hedge funds and private equity funds and their impact over the issues of corporate governance. The course will include readings covering the law and practice of the United States, European countries, and comparative analysis will be conducted with the Armenian legislation and practice. In the end of the course several issues of corporate criminal liability, compliance, and freedom of speech will also be explored.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM356
Title: Intellectual Property
Description: This course aims to give students an overview of the kinds of intellectual property rights (copyright, patents, trademarks, trade secrets, etc.) and to introduce the fundamentals of intellectual property law through discussion and analyses of leading US court decisions. The course will also explore the main differences between the European, Armenian and the US Intellectual Property legislation and case law, as well as discuss the main issues involved in IP protection, registration, licensing, and litigation. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM357
Title: Public-Private Partnerships and Armenian Legislation
Description: The course is designed to introduce and examine the concept and workings of Public Private Partnerships, its advantages for the public sector, reasons for and methods of attracting foreign investor interest, summary examination of commonly used contract types and important contractual provisions, government support and guarantees and, finally, the Armenian PPP legislation, its ambiguities and potential shortcomings.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM358
Title: International Investment Law
Description: This course focuses on a very specific field – the law of protection of foreign investments. In particular, the content of the course will provide deep knowledge on substantive standards for protection, which are afforded to foreign investors through domestic legislation, bilateral and multilateral treaties, as well as through customary international law (e.g. fair and equitable treatment, protection from expropriation). Along with the substantive standards of protection, students will learn about potential venues, where they can seek protection for their clients, together with the applicable procedural and institutional framework for investor-state dispute settlement (ICSID, UNCITRAL, PCA).
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM359
Title: Topics in Business Law
Description: Course Description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM359FR
Title: Topics in Business Law: The Impact of Financial Regulations on Us
Description: Financial regulation and monetary policy are two important functions that affect the behavior of consumers, households and businesses. Of course, the primary objective of these functions is to change the behavior of financial intermediaries, nevertheless these changes affect the way we spend, save, invest, travel, etc. This course will help the students read the cues that the financial regulator sends to the public and understand the public policy aspects of financial regulation and monetary policy. Method: The students will participate in 5 lecture style course work, find a legal/public policy issue that interests them most, and draft an actual regulatory/legal/policy initiative to either the National Assembly or the Central Bank, publish it on either www.edraft.am or www.erequest.am and follow up with the initiative. The professor will supervise the process and offer guidance.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM362
Title: Litigation in Practice
Description: This course introduces students to the procedural norms in administrative and criminal justice where they apply these norms and mechanisms in a mock pre-trial, trial and appeals/cassation litigation, as well as practice legal writing as applied to the litigation process. The course aims to teach the mechanisms of application of procedural norms in criminal justice (for example, as a result of the inspection act drawn up by the tax authority, regarding the imposition of responsibility for unpaid taxes). The examination of the case will include both the pre-trial and trial stages. The moot court litigation will cover both the appeal and cassation stages during which the students will compete with each other using all the tools and procedures that they learned during their studies.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM363
Title: Topics in Comparative Law
Description: This course gives an overview of civil and common law systems as well as the methods and sources of comparative law. Topics may include comparative institutions (e.g., courts), comparative substantive law (e.g., contracts or property), or historical and jurisprudential comparisons, and other legal systems (e.g., Islamic law, canon law, Armenia’s Datastanagirk).
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM364
Title: Freedom of Information and Data Protection
Description: Data protection and Freedom of Information Course provides a grounding in core elements of information law, focusing especially on those aspects that relate to processing of data online by data controllers and processor (Facebook, Google and not only), it also considers aspects relating to individual natural persons as subjects of information, as actors, engaged in freedom of expression or citizens, seeking information. A number of cross-cutting themes will be considered, especially as these relate to the general tension between rights and interests grounded on the openness of information, on the one hand and privacy of a person, on the other. The course will elucidate the relevance of the quality or the character of information, the context in which information has been obtained, the definition and relevance of the ‘public domain’ and the definition and relevance of the dissemination of information in the ‘public interest’.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM365
Title: Administrative Law
Description: Individuals deal with administrative law from the moment their birth certificate is issued until the issuance of their death certificate, as well as every time they cross a street regulated by traffic lights in between. Administrative law regulates the exercise of many fundamental human rights, such as the freedom of association and assembly, freedom of expression and regulation of media, freedom of religion and free enjoyment of property. In many countries administrative law also regulates the launch and conduct of business, such as business registrations, licenses and inspections. In some countries administrative law governs eligibility for government benefits. Finally, administrative law guarantees judicial review of administrative action as a remedy against unlawful agency action. The aim of this course is to provide students with advanced knowledge of administrative law from Armenian, American and European perspectives, as well as to develop a number of skills necessary for practicing administrative law in Armenia. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM366
Title: Topics in Constitutional Law
Description: Course Description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM367
Title: Negotiation
Description: Dispute resolution and transactions are two important processes that nearly everyone, especially lawyers, engage in at some point in their practice. Both involve skillful communication and negotiation. This course aims to give students a framework to develop their skills for conducting orderly and effective negotiations, including preparation for negotiations and techniques for handling typical situations that arise in legal and business negotiations or dispute settlements. The course focuses on the context of negotiations (where, how, and why they arise), interests vs. positions, substance vs. relationship, game theory, crucial concepts such as BATNA and ZOPA, persuasion tools, communication skills – starting from simple two-party negotiations and advancing to complex multi-party situations.
By the end of the course, students will be able to appropriately prepare for various kinds of negotiation and to conduct process and substance analysis with the aim of leaving less forfeited value on the negotiation table. The course relies on interactive exercises, case studies, video clips, and role-playing simulations for deeper understanding of the course content.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM368
Title: Topics in ADR: Arbitration
Description: Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is one of the subjects of the judiciary reform project fully supported by and included in the development plans of the Government of Armenia. Mediation, as one of the ADR alternative methods, was introduced by special legislation in 2015. In the same year the Commercial Arbitration Law of Armenia (adopted in 2006) underwent substantial amendments aiming at removing certain ambiguities and, more importantly, expanding the scope of its application and allowing arbitration in disputes which could not, prior to the amendments, be settled through arbitration.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM369
Title: Topics in ECHR: Regional and Post-Soviet Case Law
Description: During this course students will critically study a number of selected judgments and decision of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in respect of the states in the Eastern and Central European region, as well as by post-Soviet states parties to the ECHR. As a result of such intensive case-studies, students will identify the structural, systemic causes and patterns of violations of the ECHR rights in the region. Students will also become proficient in analyzing, comparing, discussing and presenting complex international judgments. They will be able to identify the applicable judgment, distinguish it from inapplicable judgments and apply it to relevant factual situations to solve legal problems. In addition to regional knowledge on human rights violations and their causes, student will acquire skills for drafting complaints and making submissions to the ECtHR. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM370
Title: International, European & National Environmental Law
Description: Environmental law is a global issue. This problem-oriented course introduces the various international European and national environmental law standards and frameworks applicable to various spheres of environmental concern. This course aims to familiarize students with the key concepts in the field of environment and considers how the environmental law may be used to facilitate environmental protection. The course will discuss the history, development, sources and principles of international environmental law and provide an overview of the international legal system in the context of environmental protection. The course will review the global issues related to environment, such as the environmental impact assessment and public participation, atmospheric protection, climate change, transboundary water and biodiversity to analyze the creation, implementation and effectiveness of international and the national environmental law. The course will address the role that international institutions play in the field of environment. The course will pay particular attention to global environmental problems such as the conservation of biological diversity and the international responses to climate change. The course will examine cross cutting issues, including the relationship between human rights and the protection of the environment. It will present the environment related case-law of the European Court of Human Rights. The course will cover the problems related to mining policy issues in Armenia. The course intends to provide overview of nuclear safety and civil protection legislation of Armenia. Three hours of instructorled discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM371
Title: Intro to Environmental Law
Description: This course focuses on International and Armenian laws governing issues related to air pollution, water and forest resources protection, biodiversity safety and land contamination. Moreover, the course will provide with a brief introduction to issues related to special protected natural areas and laws regulating specific environmental ecosystems existing in Armenia. Environmental impact assessment (EPA), control over payments for natural resources utilization and environmental pollution fees will be discussed during the course with connection to regulatory mechanisms incorporated into national civil, administrative and criminal legal acts. The course will also include the analysis of local and international case-law related to environmental protection. At the end, a hypothetical case study will be introduced for a mock-trial related to a common environmental law case. One hour of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM380
Title: Artificial Intelligence and Law
Description: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our lives and continues its rapid development taking new forms and acquiring new shores. It touches upon, improves, or interferes with our lives while the laws, along with societal norms and ethics, are lagging, reacting very slowly to these moves. Interesting questions on fundamental human rights and freedoms, security, justice, legal and natural persons’ liability, intellectual property arise in the context of AI, which present challenges to lawyers in different sectors of profession. This course will explain the concept of AI (including Machine Learning, Deep Learning and Neural Networks), and then will introduce different aspects of the legal profession and respective questions in the intersection of AI, Law, and social development.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM381
Title: Artificial Intelligence and Law Research
Description: This course is for students who took LLM380 Research in Artificial Intelligence and Law and are interested in diving deeper in a particular area of legal implications of AI use and development. At the end of the course and through rigorous research, the student must produce a paper in accordance with the requirements specified in the syllabus, under direct supervision of the course instructor.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites: LLM380
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM382
Title: Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies: Law, Business and Policy
Description: Over the past years, blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies have grabbed the focus and imagination of entrepreneurs, investors, and governments because of their game-changing potential. The latter fueled the exponential growth of businesses in the field of blockchain and cryptocurrencies, which in turn have sparked legal and regulatory challenges. To tackle those legal and regulatory challenges, the need for lawyers and regulators with core knowledge of relevant technologies and legal aspects is growing rapidly. This course will provide fundamental knowledge on (1) relevant technologies (2) business applications, and (3) legal and regulatory approach with particular attention to securities regulation. This course is an instructor-led discussion.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM390
Title: Master’s Paper
Description: This is the Program’s capstone experience, completed under the supervision of Program’s faculty. The Master’s Paper requires substantial research and writing and may include field work or case studies. Students shall select topics and determine the appropriate format and kind of research required in conjunction with the faculty advisor. All 2nd Year Students should enroll in this course in the Spring Semester and plan to complete their Master’s Paper by the end of the term.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM391
Title: Independent Study
Description: nan
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: LL.M.
Course Code: LLM392
Title: Clinical
Description: The Clinical Opportunities are designed to permit students to gain practical experience in a law-related institution (e.g., courts, parliament, administrative body, NGO, mediation program) under the supervision of an experienced practitioner or legal researcher. Clinicals are non-credit, extracurricular activities. They are also an opportunity to do public service and gain experience as a practitioner. They should be approached with the same professionalism as any work assignment and with the same seriousness as regular, graded academic work. Clinicals may also involve internships, externships, or research at the AUA Legal Research Center or other approved site. Check with the Program Chair about Clinical Opportunities.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA300
Title: Research Methods in Public Affairs
Description: This graduate seminar in research methods is a foundational course geared towards relevant tools and techniques that are commonly employed by public administrators to study complex public policy issues. Policy researchers have a variety of tools at their disposal that can be used to measure program outcomes, public opinion, and the effectiveness and efficiency of program intervention. The course is dedicated to familiarizing students with how social science research is conducted. The course trains students in various qualitative and quantitative social science techniques and approaches to measurement, with an emphasis on assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA301
Title: Policy Process & Analysis
Description: This graduate seminar seeks to introduce students to the theory of the policy process and the practice of policy analysis. The first portion of the course surveys various theories of the policy process. The second part of the course considers policy analysis as a process of multidisciplinary inquiry that creates, critically assesses, and communicates information that is useful for understanding and improving public policies. The practice of policy analysis is based on several methodological approaches, each with its own theoretical logic and values. Studied together, students will gain a firm understand of the role of policy and the ways in which it can be professionally analyzed.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA302
Title: Public Administration
Description: This graduate seminar in public administration examines the role and scope of bureaucracy in the modern state from a variety of perspectives. The course pays particular attention to issues associated with the formulation and implementation of public policy; planning, programming, and decision-making in the bureaucratic policy-making process. To accomplish this aim, the course surveys the basic functions of government and bureaucracy, considers the historical development of the civil service, and ponders the normative implications of bureaucratic culture on public administration reform.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA303
Title: Ethics & Public Policy
Description: This graduate seminar examines the major normative issues surrounding this feature of public authority. Public officials unavoidably confront ethical controversies and questions of values in the process of making policy and exercising power. Students will first consider the question of means: what are the distinctive ethical dilemmas faced by public officials as they make policy or seek power? The second part of the course ponders the question of ends: what values should public officials attempt to realize via public policy? The goal is to think through how principles developed in political theory and philosophy may inform public officials’ understanding of practical issues and policy questions.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA304
Title: Public Finance & Budgeting
Description: This course develops a general understanding of the policy of public budgeting and finance. It presents a general overview of Western public finance and budgeting systems with an emphasis on the processes of planning, programming, appropriation, taxation, spending and managing a budget deficit. The course covers both theoretical aspects of public finance and budgeting, as well as politics, processes and institutions in government budgeting. Students also learn the peculiarities of government budgeting in different countries.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA305
Title: Development Policy & Strategy
Description: This graduate seminar adopts a multidimensional understanding of global development as both economic growth and human improvement, as a balance between the market-induced and state-led, and a confluence of individual agency and collective action. The first part of the course focuses on assessing the main theories of development. The second part of course prompts students to explore some of the key questions concerning poverty reduction and global inequality. Finally, the course reflect on what ‘sustainable’ development looks like in today’s dynamic, ever-complex world.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA310
Title: Contemporary Governance
Description: This graduate seminar examines contemporary governance as the process by which authority is exercised within a given political community or issue area. Governance is a term that incorporates the fields of politics, policy, and administration, each of which is centered on a different aspect of the exercise of public authority. Governance is, therefore, an integrative field which means that a key aim of this course is for students to articulate and communicate their own integrated view of contemporary governance, and how it relates to public decision-making. Thematically, this seminar course is divided into three parts that assess governance as theory, practice, and dilemma.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA311
Title: Organizational Theory
Description: Organizations are complex and often times problematic by nature, both producing and being produced by individuals. This graduate seminar explores the structure and design of organizations, the interaction of organizations and their environment, and the behavior of individuals within organizations. Emphasis is placed on making students assess how organizations are primary modes for accomplishing administrative tasks and how they dominate institutions in the post-modern era.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA312
Title: Economics for Public Policy Decision-Making
Description: What is the place of economic thinking in policy decision-making? This course covers concepts and principles in economics which are most relevant for public administrators. Theoretically, the course assesses the rational choice model, examines alternative decision-making models, and stresses the differences in individual and collective decision-making processes. The course then turns towards a multifaceted practical examination of the role of government in the economy.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA313
Title: Civil Society & Social Capital
Description: This graduate seminar analyses the concepts of civil society and social capital and explains their prominence in current social science. As a first building block, the course material includes relevant works of major social theorists, sociologists and political scientists. The course then makes a transition from theoretical concepts to empirical studies of civil society and social capital. The last part of the course is dedicated to applying these concepts and approaches to the local context.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA314
Title: Environmental Policy Seminar
Description: The aim of this graduate seminar is to broadly introduce the tools, approaches and institutions that govern political decision-making in the field of environmental conservation and natural resource management. The course consists of four major topics that address global versus local environmental policy-making, environmental ethics, techniques of environmental analysis, and public participation and multi-level collaboration. Special emphasis is placed in assessing the strengths and challenges of citizen involvement in environmental issues, and the evolving role of government to meet trans-boundary challenges posed by the environment.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA320
Title: Policy & Program Evaluation
Description: This course serves as a supplement to the broader Policy Process & Analysis course offered within the MPA. Program evaluation is the systematic use of empirical information to assess and improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and equity of public or nonprofit programs and policy interventions. This course focuses on evaluation tools most commonly used to assess the performance of publicly funded programs. This course is particularly designed to provide a ‘roadmap’ how to match the appropriate tools to specific public programs and policies in order to evaluate their causal effects. Students in this course will become familiar with the concepts, methods, and applications of evaluation.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA321
Title: Public Personnel Management
Description: This graduate course introduces students to the theoretical framework underpinning the strategic management of an organization’s human capital for the efficient and effective delivery of public goods and services as a vital aspect of governance practices. Emphasis will be placed on surveying the history of human resource management in government, assessing the major elements of the personnel management process, and understanding the organizational functions of human resources systems. Students will be exposed to successful HR management models and practices for their learning and application to workplace environments.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA322
Title: Leadership in Public Organizations
Description: Leadership in the public sector is both unique and complex. This graduate course surveys leadership and organizational change theories, styles, and strategies in public and nonprofit organizations. Emphasis is placed on discerning what public leadership looks like, what traits and skills do leaders need to consciously practice in public organizations, and how leadership can assist in organizational change.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA323
Title: Nonprofit Management
Description: This graduate seminar provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical tools and skills necessary to successfully manage nonprofit organizations. This course begins with a historical overview of the nonprofit sector and demonstrates its complex structure. The course then explores various aspects of nonprofit management such as organizational creation, strategic planning, performance evaluation, board governance, executive leadership, human resources, finance, advocacy, and collaboration. Students will learn to analyze and assess best practices in non-profit management, compare and contrast how similar management concepts are applied to non-profit and for-profit setting, and learn to appreciate current controversies and areas of debate.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA330
Title: Topics in Public Affairs
Description: Course content varies by semester when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA331
Title: Independent Study
Description: This course is designed to permit students to design and complete a course of study under the supervision of an instructor for credit. Such courses typically address a special area of interest of the student and instructor outside the standard offerings of the program and have an interdisciplinary or research components. The course must include a co-designed syllabus and evidence of learning equivalent to 1-3 credit course. Independent study courses are subject to the instructor’s approval and Program Chair’s consent.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA390
Title: Internship
Description: Prerequisite: Completion of at least 24 credits
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA399
Title: MA Thesis Prospectus
Description: This course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to develop a comprehensive and well-grounded graduate thesis proposal. As a prerequisite for the MPA thesis, this course will guide students through the process of identifying a research topic, conducting a literature review, formulating a research question and hypothesis, and designing a research methodology. Students work on-on-one with their advisor to develop their original research that constructively contributes to the body of knowledge in this field of study, and reflects upon and utilizes the vast knowledge and skills they have gained throughout the PA coursework. A written report is the expected outcome of this course. Prerequisite: Completion of at least 24 credits
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites: PA300
Corequisites:
Program: MPA
Course Code: PA400
Title: MA Thesis
Description: Prerequisite: PA399
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: PA399
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG101
Title: Introduction to Politics and Governance
Description: The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the relationship between politics and governance. The course takes an interdisciplinary perspective on politics, borrowing concepts from political and social theory, to help students understand how political ideas and systems are used to build the procedural and institutional foundations needed for successful societies – measured in terms of life-style, prosperity, health, technological advancement and a number of other variables. Students are encouraged to think broadly, critically, and comparatively as they assess a number of normative approaches to politics and governance.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG102
Title: Introduction to Political Inquiry
Description: This entry-level course is designed for beginners with no experience in social science research. It starts with basic questions, such as “what is research, hypothesis, variables, unit of analysis, reliability, validity?” and so on. The course introduces students to types of research (academic, applied, conceptual, empirical, deductive, inductive, quantitative, qualitative) and the main stages of the research design (formulating a research question, conducting a literature review, choosing an appropriate research method, assessing the results). Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, exams, and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG103
Title: Methods of Political Inquiry
Description: As a continuation of PG 102 Introduction to Political Inquiry, the aim of this course is to deepen comprehension of research in social science and strengthen data collection, analysis, interpretation and presentation skills. The course introduces students to basic principles of empirical research design and implementation, focusing on several key quantitative and qualitative methods (such as surveys, qualitative interviews, observation and document analysis). Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, readings, group work and practice exercises. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: PG102
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG104
Title: Comparative Politics
Description: This course provides an introduction to the comparative study of politics. It covers a variety of questions facing nations, societies, political parties and political institutions. After providing students with a general understanding of the field of comparative politics, including government systems, electoral proceedings and relations between various branches of government, the course will then focus on comparing countries with various political, social and economic backgrounds. Countries examined range from industrialized and developed Western countries to underdeveloped and new countries in the Global South. Upon completion of the course, students should have a basic understanding of the function and operation of various political institutions as well the basic political culture of different countries. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, readings, group work and practice exercises. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG111
Title: Introduction to Political Science
Description: This course provides students with an introduction to the approaches in the study of politics. The course explores major concepts prevalent in political science including power, democracy, political culture and constitutionalism. It identifies the major fields of study within the discipline and familiarizes students with the differences in approach that each follow from a comparative perspective. Students are expected to complete regular assignments in order to acquire knowledge and to practice skills discussed in class. Not open to BAPG students.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG112
Title: Introduction to US Government
Description: This course introduces students to the structures and functions of American government and politics. Students study the major institutions, how political parties interact with government, how elections are conducted and how policies are made. This is done within an historical context. American Federalism and the changes in how government attends to problems both foreign and domestic are covered. Students are expected to complete regular assignments in order to acquire knowledge and to practice skills discussed in class.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG113
Title: Introduction to Armenian Government
Description: This course is a general introduction to the structure and functions of Armenian Government and its institutions, from historical, legal and comparative perspectives. The role of each branch of the government, the scope of its authority, and checks and balances in the system, will be examined in light of constitutional design and ongoing political processes, along with the relationship between the national, regional and local levels of government. Specific issues will include the state tax and budgeting process, fiscal accountability, lawmaking and regulation making, civic participation in the process, and mechanisms for public oversight of government activities and protection of individual rights as well as the military, law enforcement, and security agency’s special responsibilities and authority. The course aims to help students understand the role of government in the 21st century and the rights and responsibilities of 21st citizen in public and governmental affairs, in light of international best practices and Armenia’s development. Three hours of instructor-led instruction per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG201
Title: Political Philosophy
Description: This course examines some of the deepest questions about politics and society. Why should we have government and what would things be like without it? Is there a duty to obey government or are people sometimes justified in resisting it? What form should government take and in particular, is democracy the best form of government? How much freedom should people have and is society justified in restricting freedom? What form of property system should society have and should society try to redistribute income and wealth? We will also examine the contribution that feminism has made to social and political thought. The course is organized around five main topics: 1. State of Nature, 2. Political Obligation, 3. Forms of Government, 4. Freedom and Rights, 5. Property and Social Justice. Among the thinkers whose work will be covered are Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Mill. Course work will involve essays, research, presentations, and close reading of philosophic texts. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG203
Title: Qualitative Research Methods
Description: The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and analytical skills required for qualitative research studies in the field of politics and governance. The course builds on PG103 which provides students with a fundamental comprehension of the research process, methods and data collection in social sciences. This course addresses research design and principles of method and case selection, formulation of research concepts, with a more focus on analysis, than data collection. It develops the ability to evaluate and offer feedback on the methodology and empirical evidence of recently published research, and to design and complete analysis for an original research project.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: PG103
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG204
Title: Public Administration
Description: Governments are composed of different types of political branches – legislative, executive, and judicial – that are designed to distribute values and decide what government should do. The doing of government is conducted by the administrative state – the offices, bureaus, agencies, departments, etc. – that house experts who deliver public goods and services. The purpose of this course is to examine the history of administrative statecraft and look at the ideas that have been used to build it. This examination will be both theoretical and practical as we think about what it takes to put a man on the moon, win a war, deliver the mail, and effectively and efficiently deliver public goods and services. Though the course will take a fundamentally American perspective, every effort will be made to contextualize ideas to the Armenian context.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG205
Title: Political Ideologies
Description: Ideas matter! They are the foundations of values, beliefs and principles, both at individual and collective levels. Ideologies have shaped not only societal fabrics, but also government systems as well as political and economic frameworks that regulate and govern countries. The goal of this course is to introduce students to classic (such as liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism, etc.) and contemporary (such as environmentalism) political ideologies and the way they influence political processes, policies and personal value systems. Through lectures and theoretical-conceptual discussions, students will have the possibility to critically think about the origins, evolution and current relevance of ideologies. The course will also explore real-life examples of ideological underpinnings of documents (textual analysis), decisions (policy analysis), narratives and community structures.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG206
Title: Political Sociology
Description: This course applies a sociological approach to explore how human societies are organized and governed and how individuals and groups interact with institutions of power. In particular, the course looks at how class, caste, race, ethnicity, and gender intersect with the perceptions of power, authority, identity, and representation to influence and shape political systems. The course goes beyond internal mechanics and features of political structures and institutions to explore broader perceptions of power, the formation of the state, social and political change, and state-society relations. Throughout the semester, students will engage in sustained inquiry on a political-sociological topic of their choice, combining empirical investigation with social theory. This will be accompanied by ongoing assessment of close reading and mastery of theoretical texts.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG207
Title: Public Policy Analysis
Description: The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the field of public policy analysis. In this course students will develop an understanding of the policy context, an appreciation for the concerns of diverse stakeholders, technical knowledge of analytical tools, and the ability to develop and communicate practical advice. Students will also be given project-based opportunities to practice policy analysis in Armenia.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG208
Title: Political Parties and Party Systems
Description: Political parties could be the driving force behind democratic processes or they could be another mechanism for control by less democratic regimes. The main role of political parties (at least in democratic regimes) is to bring together like-minded citizens—sometimes with a shared ideology—to achieve electoral success and to govern a country based on their vision.
This course will explore the concept of political parties, how they are formed and organized and how they influence and are, in turn, influenced by electoral politics. Through lectures and discussions students will try to answer questions such as: Are parties important for democracies? What role do parties play in linking various societal strata with the state? How do parties shape the party system in their respective countries? How has the role of parties changed, and continues to change, over the centuries and decades?
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG209
Title: History and Practice of Modern Diplomacy
Description: In the context of international relations, diplomacy is the art of implementing foreign policy by states or non-state actors. This course provides an overview of the evolution and practice of modern diplomacy by examining the institutions, strategies, practices, norms and laws related to diplomacy. Topics discussed include but are not limited to the origins of modern diplomacy; theories and concepts of diplomacy; diplomatic techniques and strategies. With the conclusion of the course, students are expected to have a solid grasp of how to analyze diplomatic practices in the contemporary world.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG210
Title: Political Communication
Description: This course examines the intricate relationship between politics and communication in domestic and international arenas and the role of mass media in modern politics. Students will explore how language, media, and technology shape political discourse, public opinion, and political processes. Topics discussed include but are not limited to the role of media in functioning and fragile democracies as well as authoritarian and hybrid regimes; media and modern warfare; social networks and movements; political campaigning; “post-truth politics,” with a view of helping students to understand how governments function in the age of media revolution.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG211
Title: International Organizations
Description: The course discusses key international organizations and how they shape international cooperation, particularly in the fields of peace and security, development, finance and trade, and human rights protection. The focus is on major supranational and intergovernmental organizations which play a significant role in international and regional affairs. The course will explore the historical origins, institutional specifics and the main functions and operations of these organizations and will attempt to analyze their role and influence on political and economic development in the world in general and its various parts.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG212
Title: International Politics of Human Rights
Description: This course examines the complex interplay between human rights and international politics. Students will explore the historical development of human rights concepts, the role of international organizations in promoting and protecting human rights, and the challenges faced in implementing human rights norms in diverse political contexts. By analyzing case studies and contemporary issues, students will develop a critical understanding of the international politics of human rights.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG215
Title: International Relations
Description: This course aims to introduce students to a wide-range of concepts, tools and cases in the study of contemporary international relations. The course includes an overview of the essential history of the global system and introduces the foundational theories and alternative theories upon which much of the analyses of world politics is based, including game theory. The course explores how the international system, international law and diplomacy function in theory and practice. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG221
Title: Special Topics in Politics and Governance
Description: This course covers special topics in politics and governance that are at the intermediate and advanced level and not included in regular courses. Topics vary and students may repeat the course when a different topic is covered. Prerequisites depend on the topic and will be listed on the syllabus.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG230
Title: Internship
Description: This 3-credit internship provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain practical experience and professional development in the field of Politics and Governance or social science research through a supervised internship. Students will apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world work environments, fostering career exploration, networking, and professional growth. The internship has to include no less than 120 hours of work at the host organization. At the end of the internship, students submit a report that summarizes their internship experience and relates it explicitly to BAPG curriculum, reflecting on the knowledge and skills gained. This course does not meet face-to-face on a regular basis.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG231
Title: Capstone
Description: This culminating capstone course equips graduating seniors with the skills to conduct original research or an applied project in the field of Politics and Governance, using the knowledge and skills they have obtained from across the curriculum. Working regularly with a faculty advisor throughout the semester, students will delve into a pre-approved chosen topic, to deepen their understanding of political phenomena. The course emphasizes independent learning, critical thinking, and the development of research, writing, and presentation skills necessary for success in graduate programs or professional careers. The final output will vary depending on the type of the capstone project. This course does not meet face-to-face on a regular basis.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG271
Title: Religion and Politics
Description: This course is an introduction to the broader topic of how religious and political issues intersect with historical, social, theoretical issues and real-world practices. The course considers a wide range of issues, spanning from the relationship between modernity and religion, secularism and civil religion, to the relationship of religion to violence and terrorism, and to the instrumentalization of religion in support of or opposition to democracy and social change. It draws upon seminal texts, individual and country cases that have marked modern history.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG272
Title: Geopolitics of Asia
Description: The course serves as an introduction to the complex regional dynamics that make up the international relations of Asia, a region of growing political and economic importance. The course applies various analytical and theoretical approaches to understanding the complexities of the region, in its geographic, ethnic, religious and economic diversity. The course explores the role of great power hegemony and various regionalisms, and the role of Russia, China, India and the United States, and their interrelations and external relations with the region. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, case studies, readings, group work. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, quizzes, exams, projects and presentations.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG273
Title: Geopolitics of Europe
Description: This intermediate course offers a rigorous geopolitical and historical analysis of Europe’s pivotal role in global affairs. We will critically examine Europe’s evolution from a center of empires and colonialism to its contemporary position as a complex set of democratic, nationalist, and institutionalist states. The course investigates the region’s internal dynamics and external influence through key historical and conceptual prisms. We will reflect on various topics, including the development of the nation-state; the evolution and manifestations of ideologies of progress, the “return” of geopolitics, the interplay of migration, race, and ethnicity, and the contemporary forces of populism, cosmopolitanism, and protectionism. This course provides students with the theoretical tools and empirical knowledge to understand Europe’s ever-evolving role in global affairs.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG274
Title: Survey and Polling
Description: Decision making in the many fields relies on the ability to conduct research and critically interpret data. This course introduces students to the theory and practice of survey research, advancing their understanding and skills in social science research methodologies. Students will critically analyze data and results from survey research and public opinion polls. They will also learn how to collect, analyze and interpret original survey data. Assignments may include reading, individual and group projects, fieldwork, written assignments, and oral presentations. Instructor-led discussions/class time including discussions and tasks.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: BAPG
Course Code: PG281
Title: Development Policy
Description: This course is a survey of the literature on key determinants of development “Development” at the state level and “development” at the project level. We begin by considering some of the factors that drive state development, including economic growth, poverty reduction, social inequality, etc. We study different development models most popular in different periods of time, and then move on to the analysis of state policies in health and education, population and migration, and the linkages between investments in human capital and economic growth. The course then moves on to other key topics in international development including accountability and good governance, conditionalities, monitoring and evaluation of results, etc. The course concludes with a discussion on the scope and limitations of foreign aid and the institutions that implement aid policies. Three hours of instructor-led class per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: General Education
Course Code: PG282
Title: Survey of Regional Politics
Description: Survey of Regional Politics aims to provide insights into the existing and emerging dynamics of the Caucasian region. The course will identify and analyze features of political cultures, traditions of statehood and key domestic developments in Turkey, Azerbaijan, Iran, Georgia, as well as foreign policy priorities and interests of Russia, EU, USA. Special attention will be paid to Armenia’s relations with its neighbors and different geopolitical interests pursued by major global stakeholders. The course consists of lectures, discussions and student presentations. Three hours of instructor-led class time per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: Sophomore level required
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL301
Title: Theoretical Foundations of Foreign/Second Language Teaching and Learning
Description: The course aims to examine the theoretical underpinnings of various approaches to language learning and teaching and their practical implications in language classrooms. Students are encouraged to consider historical and current trends in research and practice, and theorize their own EFL/ESL language teaching experiences. The course suggests looking beyond methods towards pedagogical principles of language teaching and learning and situating them in broader educational contexts. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL302
Title: English Teaching Practices
Description: This course introduces foundational principles that guide classroom practices in teaching EFL/ESL reading, writing, listening, and speaking, while integrating them with target grammar and vocabulary within a meaning-focused language instruction. This practical course enhances students’ technical abilities to analyze and design engaging classroom activities and coherent lesson plans. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL304
Title: Classroom Assessment
Description: This course focuses on school/classroom-based assessment. It provides the latest information on the theoretical principles of language testing and assessment and discusses the implementation of the principles in real life practices. The primary focus of the course is on language assessment in classroom context. In addition, the course provides learners with knowledge and skills required for critically examining the existing tests and selecting or developing appropriate tests for their own academic context. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL305
Title: Research Methods
Description: This course will lay the foundations for the students to learn about various principles and issues regarding research methods in second or foreign language teaching and classroom research. The course will look at the various viewpoint involved in research, the issues raised by quantitative and qualitative research, how the research program is to be structured and carried out, and how to report findings. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL306
Title: Teaching Practicum
Description: The purpose of this course is to consolidate the theory and practice of teaching EFL and engage students in reflective practice. This course combines face-to-face classes on topics related to practical aspects of teaching EFL classes (e.g., lesson planning, classroom management) and fieldwork experience including EFL class observations and supervised teaching
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: TEFL302
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL307
Title: New Technologies in TEFL
Description: Once viewed primarily as a domain studying computer-mediated means of learning and teaching languages, this field has expanded to include new tools such as mobile and cloud technologies, and social media. This course will survey current trends and best practices in new technologies specific to the TEFL field. It will provide an overview of related theory and practice in the areas of social media and networks, digital video and storytelling, digital games, 3D virtual worlds, mobile technologies, distance and open education, open educational resources, and cloud computing specific to TEFL. Students will engage in research, hands-on, and material development projects to enhance their practical skills of using technologies for teaching purposes. They will also learn how to harness the strengths of new technologies to become life-long learners in their profession. Students are expected to be conversant in Internet and basics of second language acquisition. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: TEFL301 OR TEFL302
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL308
Title: English for Specific Purposes
Description: With the growing interest in teaching English for specific purposes (ESP) around the world and Armenia where almost all non-English major students study English through ESP programs, it is imperative that MA TEFL graduates develop a sound knowledge of the field. This course introduces students to many areas of ESP including English for academic purposes and English for occupational purposes. The course helps students understand and apply ESP principles to serve the needs of the society. Three hours of instructor-led discussion and experiential learning per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: TEFL301 OR TEFL302
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL309
Title: Curriculum Design
Description: This course will help students to develop a deeper understanding of the principles and procedures that inform current practices in language curriculum design, how they impact classroom pedagogies and shape materials development. TE 308 will also equip students with a variety of theoretical resources and insights for the formulation and implementation of appropriate language courses. Students will gain insight into EGP (English for General Purposes) and ESP (English for Specific Purposes). ESP includes many areas such as EAP (English for academic purposes), EOP (English for occupational purposes), EST (English for science and technology), etc. Finally, the course will enable students to develop a critical view of curriculum design as it relates to Armenia’s EFL context. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: TEFL301
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL310
Title: Teaching Internship
Description: Students enrolled in TEFL 310 will teach a group of students independently. During that time, they will function as independent teachers and operate as the main teachers in their class. During their Teaching Internships, MA TEFL students will: 1) Teach a group of students independently, 2) Receive supervision and support from their Faculty Mentor, 3) Benefit from class observations by their Faculty Mentor, 4) Develop supplemental teaching materials to accompany textbook, 5) Craft their own lesson plans, 6) Design their own classroom tests and quizzes, 7) Develop their own teaching materials, 8) Compile a teaching portfolio. This course does not meet face-to-face on a regular basis.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL312
Title: Teaching Test Preparation
Description: The objective of TEFL 312 is to help students become successful test preparation teachers. The course presents key features of major English language proficiency tests and prepares students to design and teach test preparation classes. While the course introduces tips and strategies to prepare English learners for proficiency tests, the emphasis is placed on teaching the language and skills through materials and activities based on communicative language teaching principles. Fifteen instructional hours based on instructor-led discussion.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL314
Title: Teaching English to Young Learners
Description: This course introduces students to theoretical principles and current practices of teaching and assessing learners of English starting from preschool until teenage years. The course also covers fundamentals of bi- and multi-lingual education. Practical course assignments include observations, material development, and teaching. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: TEFL301 OR TEFL302
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL315
Title: Teaching Armenian to Non-native Speakers
Description: This course promotes the development of reflective and knowledgeable professionals prepared to teach Armenian as a second or foreign language in a variety of instructional settings. Students learn to apply their linguistic and cultural knowledge of Armenian and effectively address the needs of learners from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The course explores current practices of teaching Armenian as a second or foreign language, helps students evaluate existing curricula and apply their pedagogical competence to develop their own materials. Fifteen instructional hours based on instructor-led discussion.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL320
Title: Introduction to Language
Description: An introduction to language in all its aspects as studied in the field of linguistics, including a focused concentration of how this approach relates to language education. This course explores biological, historical, and social/cultural aspects of language, and then addresses the system of language, looking at phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and discourse analysis. It covers most areas of linguistics at the introductory level, familiarizing students with general principles and key vocabulary in these areas, and exploring the relationship between the study of linguistics and language teaching. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL322
Title: Seminar on Current Topics in Applied Linguistics
Description: This course promotes an informed understanding of the relationship between knowledge, theory and practice in the field of language study as understood in Applied Linguistics. It encourages students to investigate how various ways of looking at language can influence their thinking about language teaching. The aims of this course are to: 1) Familiarize students with major issues and insights in the field; 2) Introduce students to some current topics and debates in the field; 3) Study in some depth particular articles as a way to acquaint students with particular issues and topics of potential interest to them. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL323
Title: Second Language Acquisition
Description: This course explores the various theories that scholars and researchers have put forward concerning second language acquisition, or how people learn languages. Since it is language learning that is being examined, it is important to understand what language is. Linguistics explores this question, and hence, this course draws to some extent on insights from linguistics. In addition, as people and learning have both social and psychological dimensions, the course also draws on insights from sociology and psychology. In other words, SLA is an inter-disciplinary subject that draws on all three disciplines, as well as the sub-disciplines and research areas that inter-relate them. Three hours of instructor-led discussion per week.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL327
Title: Leadership and Management in Language Teaching
Description: The role of leadership and management in the arena of English teaching has greatly expanded in the past twenty years, influenced by the growing acceptance of management principles. This development makes the topic highly relevant to MA TEFL students, some of whom will be required to manage language programs or schools. This course places emphasis on quality, efficiency, economic sustainability, accountability to stakeholders and a focus on service. Students will familiarize themselves with these principles and the matching practices. Instructor-led discussion.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL328
Title: Advanced Academic and Professional Writing in Applied Linguistics and TEFL
Description: This course is designed to prepare the students in MA TEFL both for the task of writing up their capstone projects effectively and for participating in the advanced written discourse of the academic and professional communities in applied linguistics, TEFL and TESOL, internationally. The students will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the most prominent features of successful reports, research papers and similar texts, with the emphasis on discourse features, thematic flow, cohesion, coherence and citation. Some of the skills this course aims to reinforce are reading for new information, identifying synergies between texts, paraphrasing and quoting effectively while giving prominence to their own words and ideas. Two hours of instructor led discussion and workshops per week.
Credits: 2.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL330
Title: Endangered Languages and Biodiversity
Description: About 70 percent of all languages currently spoken on Earth occur in approximately one-fourth of the planet’s land area (excluding Antarctica) that is designated as a Biodiversity Hotspot or High Biodiversity Wilderness Area. As is the case with species occurring in the biodiversity regions, many of the languages spoken in the Hotspots and High Biodiversity Wilderness Areas are unique to individual regions, thereby marking the sole opportunities to maintain them. Moreover, many of the languages occurring in these regions are spoken by small numbers of people indicating that much of the linguistic diversity (and, by implication, cultural diversity) currently present in biodiversity regions is in danger of disappearing in the foreseeable future due to the high vulnerability of small groups to changes in their cultural systems and environments amid rapid globalization.” From: http://users.ox.ac.uk/~romaine/lingbiodiversity.html. Through readings, class materials and lectures, this course introduces students to Earth’s Biodiversity Hotspots and the linguistic and cultural groups that live in these hotspots. The course is co-taught by ACE and TEFL and sensitizes students to current linguistic and biodiversity issues.
Credits: 1.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL340
Title: Special Topics in Applied Linguistics
Description: Course Description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL341
Title: Special Topics in TEFL
Description: Course Description tailored to course content when offered.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL390
Title: Independent Study in TEFL/Applied Linguistics
Description: nan
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL391
Title: Capstone Preparation
Description: Students enrolled in TEFL 391 must meet with their Capstone Committee or adviser on a regular basis during the semester, to discuss their proposals and report on details about their MA capstone. Students will only meet a few times as a class. At the end of the semester, students will write a proposal for their capstone and present it in class for feedback and discussion. The course does not meet face-to-face on a regular basis.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL392
Title: Capstone Project
Description: In this course, students will implement their capstone projects, which depending on the project, may include data collection and analysis, development and piloting of materials.. In the process, they will have a few face-to-face class sessions, meet with their Capstone Committee or adviser on a regular basis, and write an MA Thesis or MA Design Project. In addition to the written work, students will present their final capstone publicly. The course does not meet face-to-face on a regular basis.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites: TEFL305, TEFL309
Corequisites:
Program: MATEFL
Course Code: TEFL393
Title: Comprehensive Examinations
Description: Students enrolled in TEFL 393 prepare for Comprehensive Exams, one of the capstone options available for MA TEFL students. Comprehensive Exams consist of examination sessions administered over two days. They take place on campus and are scheduled in the students’ last term of study at AUA. Students attend an initial orientation session, receive detailed exam guidelines, including dates, times, and location of the comprehensive exams, a reading list, and sample exam questions. This course does not meet face-to-face on a regular basis, but will include an initial meeting and additional sessions as needed. Students are strongly encouraged to form study groups and use all the materials provided to them to prepare for the comprehensive exams.
Credits: 3.0
Prerequisites:
Corequisites:
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.