European Studies Major (EUS)
European Studies is an interdisciplinary program designed to give students a comprehensive view of Europe, past and present, from a variety of perspectives. This program provides a solid grounding in the liberal arts and is excellent preparation for advanced study in graduate or professional school. Majors are encouraged to study abroad.
A student completing the European Studies major will demonstrate:
- Knowledge of the key factors shaping European history and culture;
- Awareness of the variety of cultural influences that shape European society including (but not limited to) such fields as art, politics, literature, religion, and philosophy;
- The capacity to produce written and oral analysis of aspects of European culture;
- Communication skill in a European language in addition to English.
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Program Contact: Dr. Cliff Wargelin
No minor required.
Students majoring in European Studies must choose one track.
| Core Courses | 9 hours |
| Required Course Selections | 12 hours |
| Group 1 | |
| Group 2 | |
| Tracks | 15 hours |
| French Track | |
| German Track | |
| Spanish Track | |
| Elective Courses | 15 hours |
| Total | 51 |
Core Courses
Required Course Selections
Group 1
Select three hours/one course:
Group 2
Select nine hours/three course:
A study of human origins stressing the continuity of development through 1648. The course will be taught on a chronological or topical basis and will attempt to combine historical interpretation with a general knowledge of the significant developments of the past.
A study of civilization from 1648 to the present. The course will be taught on a chronological or topical basis and will attempt to combine historical interpretation with a knowledge of the significant developments of the past.
A survey of the role of warfare and the military in Western society from prehistory to the present. Topics will include the origins of war and military institutions; the relationship of military organizations to the state; philosophies/ doctrines regarding the state’s use of war as policy; the evolution and impact of new military technologies, tactics, and strategies; the role of leadership, organization, and logistics in war; moral and ethical issues of war; and the perspective of the individual combatant.
Tracks
Select courses from one track.
French Track
Complete the following plus twelve hours of additional French courses at the 300–400 level.
German Track
Complete the following plus twelve hours of approved independent study or study abroad.
Spanish Track
Complete the following plus six additional hours of Spanish courses at the 300–400 level.
Elective Courses
Select five courses:
Selected readings of Greek and Roman literature (in English translation) with mythological themes.
Selected readings in Greek and Roman literature (in English translation). Topics will include, but not be limited to, “From Lyric to Satire: Greek and Roman Poetry,” and “Women and Gender in Antiquity.”
Chronological survey of English literature from Beowulf through Milton.
Studies in the original language of English poetry, prose, and drama, excluding Chaucer.
Literature of the English Renaissance, excluding the works of Shakespeare and Milton.
The novel as a prose form, from its introduction to the beginning of the twentieth century.
A survey of modern poetry, drama, and fiction written during the first half of the twentieth century.
A study of the works of Chaucer, particularly the Canterbury Tales, with emphasis on Chaucer’s contribution to the development of the English language.
Shakespeare’s art and craft through study of important plays: comedies, tragedies, and histories.
Critical study of Milton’s major and minor works to estimate his present day literary and political significance.
Selected studies in medieval and/or Renaissance literature. Specific topics to be announced during advanced registration.
Survey of the development of Western philosophical thought within its cultural contexts from the Renaissance through the eighteenth century. Exploration of issues foundational to contemporary philosophy, theology, and the sciences.
Students may also complete the following for Electives credit:
- A second world language (French, German, Greek, Latin, or Spanish)
- Any Topics, Study Abroad, or other course with a significant European focus, subject to approval.