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Languages & Cultural Studies

The School of Professional & Continuing Studies offers classes and programs focused on the study of languages and cultures.

Our classes and programs cover American and non-American languages, histories, politics, society and cultures.

We offer classes in the following categories within Languages and Cultural Studies. Not all categories are offered every semester.

  • Languages: American Sign Language (ASL), English (for English language learners), French, Italian, Spanish
  • History: Richmond history and cultural heritage
  • Cultural Enrichment: Weekend classes designed especially for international au pairs

UR Au Pair

The UR Au Pair program helps international au pairs fulfill their required annual educational credits while immersing themselves in the rich cultural traditions of Richmond, Virginia.

Upcoming Courses

Courses

Art & Film Exploration: No Reservations

Food plays an artful role in this story of three people who need each other more than they know. The film soundtrack makes extensive use of operatic music, and includes Liz Phair's song 'Count on My Love.' Students will explore mixed media and collage to cut, glue, paste, and paint one or two colorful paintings of fine dining scenes while discovering the use of texture, shape, and composition.

All weekend, starting on 8/2/19 and ending on 8/4/19 - Fri 6-9pm; Sat and Sun 9am-6pm

Spanish for Corrections/Sheriff's Office Personnel

Our custom-designed Spanish for Corrections Staff and Sheriff's Personnel offers training in the foundation of the Spanish language, covering basic grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary. Special attention will be given to scenarios most frequently experienced by personnel in this industry. (This session is open to Richmond City Sheriff's Office Personnel.)

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Spanish Level I

If you have been hesitant about attempting to learn a new language, now it is time to try it! Learning Spanish could be a valuable asset for you. In this course we will learn the foundation of the language, covering basic grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary as well as an introduction to the Spanish culture.

Every week on Monday, starting on 07/01/19 and ending on 07/29/19, BUS, Queally Room Q158

American Sign Language I

In these American Sign Language (ASL) classes you will learn fingerspelling, counting, and basic signs such as 'How are you,' non-manual signals (NMS), and how to convert English into ASL. Sessions include fun, hands-on activities which will enable you to communicate with our deaf community. Classes are taught by local organization ASL Champs. This is a beginner class and eligible for CEUs; books are included in tuition.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

American Sign Language II

In these American Sign Language (ASL) classes you will learn fingerspelling, counting, and basic signs such as 'How are you,' non-manual signals (NMS), and how to convert English into ASL. Sessions include fun, hands-on activities which will enable you to communicate with our deaf community. Classes are taught by local organization ASL Champs. This is a continuation of Beginner I and is eligible for CEUs; books are included in tuition.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

English: Fundamentals of English for Speakers of Other Languages

This class is a combined skills course designed to improve basic and intermediate levels of communication in all four skill areas of English: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will practice new vocabulary in writing and speaking as well as increase listening and reading comprehension. Additional strategies will include an emphasis on pronunciation. (Class is designed for beginner to intermediate levels.)

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

French Level I

This course is designed for beginners. Students will learn the basics of pronunciation, vocabulary, and useful phrases. Explore a new language this semester with our beginner level French!

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

French Level II

This course is a continuation of Beginning French. Students will deepen their comprehension of the French language. Students will also improve their speaking skills through a variety of authentic situations.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Guest Service GoldŽ Hospitality Training

NEW! Guest service is the heart and soul of hospitality, and every hospitality employee, no matter his/her job, needs to have a foundation in guest service. Statistics show exceptional guest service by employees is rewarded with increased guest spending, positive word-of-mouth advertising, and repeat guest business. This course introduces seven key elements required to deliver the highest levels of service: invest in the success of your professional career with Guest Service GoldŽ Hospitality Training!

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Music of the Sixties: A Historical Tour of Rock Music

If you are interested in the music of the 1960s this class is your good vibration! Join us as we survey the unequaled music of this mid-century decade. In-class listening and discussions, as well as lectures, trace a historical tour of Rock Music of the 1960s covering the development of popular and rock music and its composers, performers, genres, and other stylistic aspects.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Public Speaking and Communication Weekend

Explore a fun and educational weekend of learning and practicing special topics in public speaking and presentation skills. This is a wonderful opportunity to improve your communication abilities and develop your confidence in speaking during your time in the US. A variety of written and oral activities are planned for on campus sessions. Course fee includes materials and certificate of completion.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Spanish Level II

Did you take Spanish in high school or college and you want to refresh your skills? Are you pursuing a new challenge professionally and want to use your Spanish-speaking skills? This course is a continuation of Spanish for Beginners I. It is intended for students who want to refresh their basic skills in Spanish or further their knowledge of the Spanish language by acquiring new vocabulary and building confidence in speaking and comprehension.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Spanish Conversation

This course is for students with intermediate Spanish skills who are ready to practice speaking more. We will also focus on understanding Spanish expressions and more advanced vocabulary, as well as listening to and watching Spanish films/media to increase your skills. Course combines Conversation, Cultura, and 'Cine.' Take your Spanish to the next level!

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Art & Film Exploration: An American in Paris

This film earned eight Academy Award nominations and won six, including Best Art. It is ranked number nine among AFI's Greatest Movie Musicals. The 17-minute ballet sequence, with sets and costumes referencing master French painters, serves as the film's climax. The film story is about an ex-GI (Gene Kelly) who stays behind in Paris after the end of WWII to become a reputable painter. Working diligently, he is still struggling to pay his way when both opportunity and love come knocking. Dance scenes interspersed to the musical score by George Gershwin are unforgettable. Students will explore impressionism and Fauvism art to create personal paintings and also the use of hand lettering, collage, and icon images to create billboard art. All supplies included.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Maud Lewis Art & Film Exploration

NEW! Students will explore Canadian folk artist Maud Lewis, and her world of bright bold colors and tranquil outdoor scenes of flowers, birds, skaters, horses pulling sleigh, deer, and cats. Movie scenes reminiscent of the landscape of Digby, Nova Scotia portray Maudie's quiet world of purpose and the 10 ft x 12 ft home where she paints flowers and stems on walls, shelves, chairs, and even the stove. Inspired to put a few paintings up for sale street side, Maudie becomes world famous. Students will create playful and colorful miniature paintings and note cards using flat color and simple shapes. No prior experience needed; suitable for all levels. Course is designed for ages 18+. Materials are included.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Cultural Perspectives

Historical and cultural areas unique to Richmond and the surrounding area are introduced in these weekend sessions. When feasible, weekends may include visits to museums and other local venues. Sessions may also include lessons in professional etiquette and business writing. Personal wellness and special interest topics are also available.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

DNA & Your Genealogy - An Introduction

Considering having your DNA tested? Have you had your DNA tested and now are unsure of what to do with the results? These are often questions asked about this expanding area of genealogy. This session will address these questions, provide a basic understanding of what your results can - or cannot - provide for you. It will also help you decide which tests you may need while providing guidance on how to use your test results. An demonstration of the Ancestry DNA product, and review of its new features, will also be provided.

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

English Fundamentals: Exploring U.S. Celebrations and Culture

This class offers language training and practice in English pronunciation, conversation, reading, and writing. Special attention will be given to U.S. Celebrations and comparisons with students' home countries. (Class is designed for English levels beginner to intermediate. Book included for all students.)

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Art Exploration: Illustrate Coco Chanel

Drop in on the totally unconventional, unforgettable life and couture of Coco Chanel, the modern woman's designer, to illustrate a very personal and unique style of your own. Using film clips, quotes, and a study of multiple online resources, participants will explore Chanel's hope and conviction, the fashion industry, and illustrate a personal portfolio of designs. Recommended reading, journaling, and sketching assignments will enhance the experience. Students should bring a mixed media sketchbook and a series of pens and markers to the first class. A materials list will be posted in the 'bulletin' section of this course. (For au pairs, this course will also provide English language lessons as part of the curriculum.)

This course contains no sessions
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.