Literature, Language, and Culture

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Literature, Language, and Culture

English: Butts, Griffin, Harrigan

Spanish: Clinger, Foshee

Department Mission Statement

The Department of Literature, Language, and Culture promotes integrative learning and intercultural dialogue through the study of language, literature, culture, and writing.  These programs foster sophisticated critical reading, thinking, and communication skills; they also cultivate creative problem-solving skills and cultural literacy, enabling students to participate fully as citizens in a global community.  Through academic opportunities, immersion experiences, and co-curricular activities, students engage with different cultural viewpoints, past and present, while developing attention to the art of communication across contexts.  Graduating majors enter the workforce prepared to apply these skills and perspective to work in a variety of fields. 

Double Majoring

Programs in Literature, Language, and Culture effectively combine with other majors or minors, enhancing both programs of study.  Commonly chosen complementary fields include, but are not limited to: intentional management, international relations, pre-law, history, art, theater, music, biology, philosophy, religion, sociology, criminal justice, communications, and education.  Students who intend to double-major are encouraged to consult with advisors in each program in order to ensure they can complete all requirements. 

Spanish Placement

Students entering Simpson with a background in Spanish are strongly encouraged to continue their studies at the appropriate level.  Several self-placement tools are available on the departmental website to help students and their advisors determine which course will be best suited to their needs.  Spanish program faculty can also advise students on appropriate placement. 

Spanish Heritage Speakers

Students who are Spanish Heritage Speakers (Spanish is also spoken in the home) are asked to take Span 203: Spanish for Heritage Speakers in lieu of Span 201: Intermediate Spanish I and Span 202: Intermediate Spanish II. 

CLEP

Students with extensive prior background in Spanish may earn up to 16 credits in Spanish through the CLEP examiniation.  A minimum passing score for the 101-102 level will be compensated with 8 hours of credit toward graduation.  A minimum passing score for the 201-202 level will allow the student to earn an additional 8 credits toward graduation if they complete an approved course beyond the 202 level in that same language with a grade of C- or better.  In order for a CLEP score to count for credit, the exam must be taken prior to the completion of any course at Simpson in that language.  CLEP credits for language courses do not carry with them any general education designations. 

Study Abroad

Simpson College offers both May Term travel courses and semester-long study abroad programs around the world.  Students in Literature, Language, and Culture programs are encouraged to take advantage of these cultural opportunities.  Students majoring in Spanish are encouraged to include 8 credit hours of immersion experiences in Chile, Mexico, or Spain.  More information about study abroad can be obtained from the Office of Off-Campus Programs and from Literature, Language, and Culture faculty. 

Programs

The Department of Literature, Language, and Culture offers majors and minors in English and Spanish, as well as minors in Spanish for the Professions and Latin American Studies.  Certificates in Intermediate Spanish and Spanish for the Professions are also offered, as well as introductory coursework in other languages. 

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