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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

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.

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.

Italian - Beginner Conversational Level II

This Beginner Conversational Level II course is a continuation of our Italian Level I. It presents a practical approach to learning Italian, with an eye on basic grammar and syntax.

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 want to refresh your skills? Are you pursuing a new challenge professionally and need to use Spanish? As a continuation of Spanish for Beginners I, this course 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.

Hospitality & Tourism Fundamentals Certificate

Our new Hospitality & Tourism Fundamentals Certificate is designed for individuals interested in pursuing employment or advancing their careers in the dynamic field of hospitality and tourism. Whether you are seeking to add to your professional qualifications or start a new career, our Hospitality and Tourism Certificate will provide you with the desired skill-set sought after by leading companies in this growing industry.

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

Art Explorations: Paul Gauguin

NOTE: This course will now be ONLINE and will explore art related to French Artist Paul Gauguin and cultural topics. You will also practice creative writing and business writing skills, advanced English vocabulary, communication, presentation. Students will complete modules ONLINE, with written reports and projects submitted to UR online. 3 au pair credits and a Certificate of Completion will be awarded to each student upon completion.

This course will now be ONLINE. Students will have 2 weeks to complete the modules. ONLINE course dates: March 20 to April 5.

Cultural Perspectives Online Course - April

This class is ONLINE. Focus will be on art and culture topics, as well as other professional skills and educational material designed for au pairs living in the USA. Students will have 2 weeks to complete the online modules, and will receive a Certificate of Completion from UR for 3 au pair credits. Online Course begins April 10 through April 26. Last day to register is April 9. Students will receive logon instructions on April 10.

This course is ONLINE. Students will have 2 weeks to complete the modules. ONLINE course dates: April 10 to April 26.

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.

Italian Level I

This course is intended for travelers to Italy or anyone who desires to speak and understand 'la bella lingua.' Lessons use a communicative approach to integrate grammar and conversation practice with culture and etiquette skills. The student will be prepared to navigate a variety of social situations while dining, shopping, and traveling throughout Italy, as well as building the foundations for further pursuing linguistic competence in Italian.

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.

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