Nov. 2, 2012

Learn More about European Studies

On Monday, Nov. 5, students who are interested in finding out more about the Certificate in European Studies (CES) program are invited to a round-table discussion hosted by the School of Arts and Sciences in Hannan Hall, Room 108.

Dean L.R. Poos will provide an overview of the program followed by short presentations by faculty members representing five arts and sciences departments that play a role in the CES: Árpád von Klimo, associate professor of history; Dorle Hellmuth, assistant professor of politics; Daniel García-Donoso, assistant professor of Spanish; Nora Heimann, associate professor and chair of the art department; and Attila Freska, clinical professor of international business.

The discussion will revolve around the questions "why Europe" and "why European studies," and will be moderated by Associate Professor Claudia Bornholdt, director of CES and chair of the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures. The faculty representatives will reflect on the importance of these questions in their own research and teaching and will answer questions from the audience.

The CES "is a great vehicle for adding new dimension to the curriculum. It is unlike anything we have offered before in the School of Arts and Sciences. With its global and interdisciplinary focus, it reflects the direction we are taking as we plan for the future," says Poos.

The program made its debut at the beginning of the 2011-2012 academic year. It is designed as a complement for majors in the humanities and social sciences and is open to all qualified undergraduate students at Catholic University.

CES students are required to take two courses that are specifically designed for the program. Students also select an additional four elective courses from at least two departments. In addition, students must acquire or have proficiency in at least one of the modern languages of Europe other than English and immerse themselves in one of the cultures of Europe through study abroad or an internship.

"The CES is rigorous, yet flexible," says Bornholdt. "The certificate allows students to put together their own individual courses of study. The roundtable will be of particular interest to students who are considering completing course work for the Certificate in European Studies as well as to students majoring and minoring in art, international business and economics, languages, history, politics, media studies, and other related fields."

The roundtable will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. A small reception will follow the presentation. For more information, contact the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures at 202-319-5240.