Africana adopts progressive interdisciplinary approaches to the understanding of people of African descent in the Atlantic world: Africa, the Americas— with special attention to the United States—and Europe. Our courses examine conceptualizations of “race” and its use as a tool of critical analysis. Attention to the intersection of “race” with other social and political identities–e.g., ethnicity, social class, disability, gender, sexuality, linguistic–informs all aspects of the intellectual project of Africana at Bates.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• AFR 100. Introduction to Africana (offered Fall 2024)
• AFR 115. Introduction to African American Literature II: 1910-Present – same as ENG 115
• AFR 119. Cultural Politics (offered Fall 2024) – same as AMST 119
• AFR 162. White Redemption: Cinema and the Co-optation of African American History
• AFR 201. Race, Ethnicity, and Feminist Theory (offered Fall 2024)
• AFR 249. African American Popular Music – same as MUS 249 (offered Fall 2024)
• AMST 288. Visualizing Race – same as AVC 288

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• AFR 100. Introduction to Africana (AC, HS)
• AFR 115. Introduction to African American Literature II: 1910 – Present (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/africana/

American Cultural Studies explores the various ways that institutions, values and practices shape, maintain, and challenge relations of power. American Studies courses are designed to elucidate what has been rendered socially invisible. Using a variety of interdisciplinary approaches such as texts, performance, and material culture as points of departure for our wide-ranging exploration of American culture. While it focuses on the United States, American Studies situates the U.S. in a wider transnational context.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• AMST 119. Cultural Politics (offered Fall 2024) – same as AFR 119
• AMST 141. Rise of American Empire (offered Fall 2024) – same as HIST 141
• AMST 200. American Studies
• AMST 205. Archives, Data, and Analysis (offered Fall 2024) – same as DCS 204
• AMST 211. US Environmental History (offered Fall 2024) – same as ENVR 211, HIST 211
• AMST 240I. French in Maine (offered Fall 2024) – same as FRE 240I

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• AMST 119. Cultural Politics (AC, HS)
• AMST 141. Rise of American Empire (AC, HS)
• AMST 204. Archives, Data, and Analysis (HS, SR)
• AMST 211. US Environmental History (AC, HS)
• AMST 250I. French in Maine (HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/american-studies/

Anthropology is a comprehensive discipline offering students a broad, comparative, and essentially interdisciplinary approach to the study of human life in all its diversity.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend taking this course:

• ANTH 101. Cultural Anthropology (offered Fall 2024)

This course also enables you to complete the general education requirement because it is tagged as (MOI):

• ANTH 101. Cultural Anthropology (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/anthropology/

Art and Visual Culture studies the intersecting categories of art, architecture, visual culture, and material culture, from the distant past to the present. This study also provides insights into intellectual currents, religious doctrines and practices, and social institutions, with attention to issues of class, gender, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Studio art involves the integration of traditional disciplines and methods with contemporary practices and the study of visual culture.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

Studio concentration:

• AVC 202. Painting: Color and Design (offered Fall 2024)
• AVC 203. Ceramic Design and Techniques (offered Fall 2024)
• AVC 212. Drawing: From Still Life to the Model I (offered Fall 2024)
• AVC 219. Photography: The Digital Image (offered Fall 2024)

History and Criticism concentration:

• AVC 223. Outside the Frame: A Global History of Photography
• AVC 241. The Art of Islam (offered Fall 2024)
• AVC 245. Architectural Monuments of Southeast Asia (offered Fall 2024)
• AVC 247. The Art of Zen Buddhism (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

Studio concentration:

• AVC 203. Ceramic Design and Techniques (AC, CP)
• AVC 212. Drawing: From Still Life to the Model I (AC, CP)
• AVC 219. Photography: The Digital Image (AC, CP)

History and Criticism concentration:

• AVC 241. The Art of Islam (AC, HS)
• AVC 245. Architectural Monuments of Southeast Asia (AC)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/art-visual-culture/

Asian Studies is an interdisciplinary program designed to encourage students to deepen their study of Asian cultures through courses and the senior thesis, along with rigorous training and expertise in Chinese or Japanese language. In a globalized society, it is essential to find alternatives to U.S.-centric world views and create opportunities to center and learn from equally important voices and perspectives from around the world.

As an entry point into this area of study, we especially recommend any of the following courses:

• CHI 101. Beginning Chinese I (offered Fall 2024)
• JPN 101. Beginning Japanese I (offered Fall 2024)

As an entry point into this area of study, we also recommend any of the following courses:

• ASIA 130. Japanese Honor Film: Silent Era to the Present (offered Fall 2024) – same as JPN 130
• ASIA 155. Introduction to Asian Religions (offered Fall 2024) – same as REL 155
• ASIA 171. Imperial China (offered Fall 2024) – same as HIST 171
• ASIA 207. Traditional Chinese Literature in Translation (offered Fall 2024) — same as CHI 207
• ASIA 109. Anime: Shojo and Society in Japanese Animation – same as JPN 109, GSS 109
• ASIA 208. Religions in China – same as REL 208
• ASIA 223. Communism, Capitalism, and Cannibalism: New and Emerging Voices in Chinese Literature – same as CHI 223
• ASIA 234. Chinese Arts and Visual Culture – same as AVC 234
• ASIA 236. Japanese Arts and Visual Culture – same as AVC 236
• ASIA 243. Buddhist Arts and Visual Cultures – same as AVC 243
• ASIA 245. Architectural Monuments of Southeast Asia (offered Fall 2024) – same as AVC 245
• ASIA 246. Visual Narratives: Storytelling in East Asian Art – same as AVC 246
• ASIA 247. The Art of Zen Buddhism (offered Fall 2024) – same as AVC 247
• ASIA 250. Buddhist Traditions – same as REL 250
• ASIA 251. Religions of Tibet – same as REL 251
• ASIA 261. Cultural History of Japan: From Jōmon Pottery to Manga – same as JPN 261 
• ASIA 274. China in Revolution – same as HIST 274

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• CHI 101. Beginning Chinese I (AC, CP)
• JPN 101. Beginning Japanese I (CP)
• ASIA 109. Anime: Shojo and Society in Japanese Animation (AC, HS)
• ASIA 130. Japanese Horror Film: From Silent Era to Present (AC)
• ASIA 155. Introduction to Asian Religions (AC, HS)
• ASIA 171. Imperial China (AC, HS)
• ASIA 207. Traditional Chinese Literature in Translation (AC, HS, W2)
• ASIA 223. Communism, Capitalism, and Cannibalism: New and Emerging Voices in Chinese Literature (AC, HS)
• ASIA 234. Chinese Arts and Visual Culture (AC)
• ASIA 236. Japanese Arts and Visual Culture (AC)
• ASIA 243. Buddhist Arts and Visual Culture (AC)
• ASIA 245. Architectural Monuments of Southeast Asia (AC)
• ASIA 250. Buddhist Traditions (AC, HS)
• ASIA 251. Religions of Tibet (AC, HS)
• ASIA 261. Cultural History of Japan: From Jōmon Pottery to Manga (AC, HS)
• ASIA 274. China in Revolution (AC, HS)

Link to department/program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/asian/

Students in Biology learn to understand the principles that govern living systems and the methods used to study these systems.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend all of the following courses:

• BIO 195. Lab-Based Biological Inquiry (fall or winter of 1st year) – (offered Fall 2024)
• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (fall of 1st year; crucial to be ready for sophomore-level biology courses) – (offered Fall 2024)
• CHEM 108A. Chemical Reactivity/Lab (winter of 1st year; crucial to be ready for sophomore-level biology courses)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (QF, SR)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/biology/

Biochemistry

Biological chemistry encompasses study of the form, chemistry, and function of the molecules found in living organisms and the processes in which these molecules participate. It is the foundation for medical research and scientifically-based healthcare strategies as well as advances in other areas such as nutrition and agriculture .

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend the following courses:

• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (should be taken in the fall of the first year) (offered Fall 2024)
• CHEM 108A. Chemical Reactivity/Lab (should be taken in the winter of the first year) (offered Winter 2025)
• BIO 195. Lab-Based Biological Inquiry (should be taken in fall or winter of the first year) (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 105. Calculus I (or high school equivalent, should be completed by the end of the first year) (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (or high school equivalent) (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (QF, SR)
• MATH 105. Calculus I (QF)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (QF)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/chemistry-biochemistry/

Chemistry

Students taking classes in Chemistry and Biochemistry learn to understand the foundational theories of chemistry, apply these theories to the practice of reasoning from evidence, communicate with scientific audiences and the general population, and appreciate the role of science in society.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend the following courses:

• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (should be taken in the fall of the first year) (offered Fall 2024)
• CHEM 108A. Chemical Reactivity/Lab (should be taken in the winter of the first year) (offered Winter 2025)
• MATH 105. Calculus I (or high school equivalent, should be completed by the end of the first year) (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (or high school equivalent, should be completed by the end of the first year) (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (QF, SR)
• MATH 105. Calculus I (QF)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (QF)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/chemistry-biochemistry/

Classical and Medieval Studies is a uniquely interdisciplinary study of cultural history with an emphasis on empowering students themselves to read and assess texts in the relevant ancient languages.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• CMS 102. Medieval Worlds – same as HIST 101 (offered Fall 2024)
• CMS 104. Introduction to Medieval English Literature – same as ENG 104
• CMS 107. Race, Reception, and the Modern Creation of the Ancient and Medieval Past
• CMS 108. Roman Civilization: The Republic – same as HIST 108
• CMS 109. Roman Civilization: The Empire – same as HIST 109
• CMS 216. Classics and the History of Sexuality (offered Fall 2024)
• CMS 218. Greek and Roman Myths (offered Fall 2024)
• CMS 241. The Art of Islam (offered Fall 2024)
• CMS 238. Jews and Judaism in Antiquity – same as REL 238
• CMS 252. Art of the Middle Ages – same as REL 252
• GRK 101. Elementary Ancient Greek I 
• LATN 101. Elementary Latin I (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• CMS 102. Medieval Worlds (AC, HS)
• CMS 216. Classics and the History of Sexuality (AC, HS)
• CMS 218. Greek and Roman Myths. (AC, HS)
• CMS 220. The Medieval Year (AC, HS)
• CMS 236. Introduction to the New Testament (AS, HS)
• CMS 241. The Art of Islam (AC, HS)
• CMS 277. Medieval Literatures of Resistance: Power and Dissent 1100-1500 (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/classical-medieval/

Data and computers are transforming virtually every facet of our professional and personal lives. Increasingly, they are the dominant media for how we generate, apply, and share knowledge. The digital and computational studies (DCS) program is problem-oriented and reflective. By paying attention to the values and motivations underlying the development and use of computers, by exploring the consequences of computers and computation for society, and by engaging in programming, algorithmic development, and design, students are more likely to understand what goes on beyond the user interface.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• DCS 105. Calling Bull in a Digital World (offered Fall 2024)
• DCS 106. TechnoGenderCulture 
• DCS 108. Introduction to Computation for Science and Mathematics 
• DCS 109. Introduction to Computing and Programming
• DCS 111. Introduction to Computer Science for Text Analysis (offered Fall 2024)
• DCS 204. Archives, Data, and Analysis (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• DCS 105. Calling Bull in a Digital World (SR, QF)
• DCS 109. Introduction to Computing and Programming (QF)
• DCS 111. Introduction to Computer Science for Text Analysis (QF)
• DCS 204. Archives, Data, and Analysis (HS, SR)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/digital-computational-studies/

In the Department of Earth and Climate Sciences, students learn about interactions among the earth’s mantle, crust and surface, including the earth’s structure, its climate system, earth materials, earthquakes and volcanoes, the water cycle, geologic time, and the earth as a system using a combination of field, laboratory, and computational methods. Students work with their peers and faculty to answer fundamental questions and to solve real-world problems in Maine and beyond. The department stresses the importance of communication, collaboration, and hands-on experiential learning in the field, the laboratory, and the classroom. 

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• EACS 103. Earth Surface Environments and Environmental Change/Lab
• EACS 104. Plate Tectonics and Tectonic Hazards (offered Fall 2024)
• EACS 107. Katahdin to Acadia: Field Geology in Maine/Lab
• EACS 109. Earth’s Climate System/Lab (offered Fall 2024)
• EACS 119. The Anthropocene
• EACS 113. Marine Science – same as BIO 113
• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• EACS 103. Earth Surface Environments and Environmental Change/Lab (SR)
• EACS 104. Plate Tectonics and Tectonic Hazards (QF, SR)
• EACS 107. Katahdin to Acadia: Field Geology in Maine/Lab (QF, SR)
• EACS 109.  Earth’s Climate System/Lab (SR)
• EACS 119. The Anthropocene (QF, SR)  
• EACS 113. Marine Science (QF, SR)
• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (QF, SR)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/earth-climate-sciences/

The goal of the economics curriculum is to educate students, both majors and non-majors, about the ideas of economics and how they apply to today’s world.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• ECON 153. Introductory Economics: Environmental Economics (HS)
• ECON 156. Introductory Economics: Macroeconomic Policy (offered Fall 2024)
• ECON 250. Statistics (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 105. Calculus I (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• ECON 153. Introductory Economics: Environmental Economics (HS)
• ECON 156. Introductory Economics: Macroeconomic Policy (CP, HS)
• ECON 250. Statistics (QF)
• MATH 105. Calculus I (QF)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (QF)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/economics/

The aim of the department is to create an environment in which students and faculty together analyze the complex dynamics between the purposes and products of schooling and the social structures and cultural processes that constitute the broader context for education. The Education Minor has two tracks; Educational Studies and Teacher Education.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• EDUC 231. Perspectives on Education (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• EDUC 231. Perspectives on Education (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/education/

The Combined Plan programs allow students to gain broad exposure to the liberal arts while preparing for a degree in engineering. Under the programs, students spend 3 years at Bates pursuing liberal arts and certain pre-engineering courses, and then continue their studies at an engineering school for 2 years. Five schools — Case Western, Columbia, Dartmouth, RPI, and Washington University — are affiliated with Bates for combined plan study.

At the end of the five year program, 2 bachelors degrees are awarded, one by the engineering school and another by Bates. Since a firm decision to concentrate in engineering is not required until the junior year, the plans are especially beneficial to students who are interested in, but not yet completely sure about, a career in engineering.

For more information including degree requirements, sample course plan, and important prerequisite courses click here.

Classes in English foster critical reading, writing, and thinking, in which “criticism” is at once passionate appreciation, historical understanding, and the perpetual rethinking of values.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• ENG 109. Foundations of English Literature (offered Fall 2024)
• ENG 113. Theory of Narrative
• ENG 115. Introduction to African American Literature II: 1910-Present – same as AFR 115 (offered Fall 2024)
• ENG 118. The Aesthetics of Seeing: Poetry as Witness (offered Fall 2024)
• ENG 121D. Many Lives of King Arthur
• ENG 121G. Asian American Women Writers
• ENG 121J. What is Poetry? (offered Fall 2024)
• ENG 121L. Modern Short Stories
• ENG 12P. Narrow Rooms: The Art of the Sonnet
• ENG 131. Tragedy and the Drama of Voice
• ENG 143. Nineteenth-Century American Literature
• ENG 152. American Writers since 1900 (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• ENG 109. Foundations of English Literature (AC)
• ENG 115. Introduction to African American Literature II: 1910-Present (AC, HS)
• ENG 121J. What is Poetry? (AC, CP)
• ENG 152. American Writers since 1900 (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/english/

Environmental studies encompasses a broad range of issues that arise from the interaction of humans with both the natural world and built environments. To understand how physical environments are shaped in complex ways by socio-cultural, economic and political factors, the ES major provides an interdisciplinary framework that allows students to examine how humans experience, investigate, and interact with the world around them.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• ENVR 203. Scientific Approaches to Environmental Issues/Lab 
• ENVR 204. Environment and Society (offered Fall 2024)
• ENVR 205. Lives in Place (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• ENVR 204. Environment and Society (AC, HS)
• ENVR 205. Lives in Place (AC)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/environment/

European Studies is an interdisciplinary program that brings together the methods and questions of the humanities and social sciences to understand better the people, languages, traditions, and cultures of Europe, as well as to examine European interactions with the wider world.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• EUS 105. Germany and the New Europe (offered Fall 2024)
• FRE 101. Elementary French I (offered Fall 2024)
• GER 101. Introduction to German: Language and Culture I (offered Fall 2024)
• HISP 103. Accelerated Elementary Spanish (offered Fall 2024)
• RUSS 101. Elementary Russian I (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• FRE 101. Elementary French I (CP)
• GER 101. Introduction to German Language and Culture I (AC, CP)
• RUSS 101. Elementary Russian I (AC, CP)
• RUSS 201. Intermediate Russian I (AC, CP)
• HISP 103. Accelerated Elementary Spanish (AC)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/european-studies/

Courses in French and Francophone Studies help students learn or improve communication skills in French, and go beyond the study of language to achieve a deeper understanding of the diversity of French-speaking populations through their literatures and other modes of cultural production.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• FRE 101. Elementary French I (offered Fall 2024)
• FRE 201. Intermediate French (offered Fall 2024)
• FRE 205. Oral French (offered Fall 2024)
• FRE 207. Introduction to Contemporary France (offered Fall 2024) 
• FRE 208. Introduction to the Francophone World (offered Fall 2024)
• FRE 235. Advanced French Language and Film Analysis (offered Fall 2024)
• FRE 240I. French in Maine (offered Fall 2024)
• FRE 250. Power and Resistance Through Writing (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• FRE 101. Elementary French I (CP)
• FRE 201. Intermediate French (AC, CP)
• FRE 205. Oral French (AC, CP)
• FRE 207. Introduction to Contemporary France (AC, HS)
• FRE 235. Advanced French Language and Film Analysis (CP)
• FRE 240I. French in Maine – same as AMST 240I (HS)
• FRE 250. Power and Resistance Through Writing (HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/french/

The Program in Gender and Sexuality Studies analyzes local and global entanglements of knowledge, power, pleasure, and resistance. Drawing on histories of anti-racist, decolonial, feminist, queer, and trans work, courses examine shifting dynamics of privilege, exclusion, and marginalization. The program also cultivates action, practice, and reciprocal engagement with the many communities of which we are part.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• GSS 100. Introduction to Gender and Sexuality Studies (offered Fall 2024)
• GSS 201. Race, Ethnicity, and Feminist Thought (offered Fall 2024) – same as AFR 201
• GSS 204.Classics and the History of Sexuality (offered Fall 2024) – same as CMS 204.
• GSS 208. Transgender Studies 
• GSS 121. Asian American Women Writers – same as ENG 121
• GSS 205. Queer Indigenous Studies 
• GSS 207. Eve, Adam, and the Serpent – same as REL 207
• GSS 204. Classics and the History of Sexuality – same as CMS 204
• GSS 248. Queer Studies – same as AMST 248
• GSS 267. Blood, Genes, and American Culture – same as AFR 267/AMST 267/HIST 267
• GSS 270. Sociology of Gender – same as SOC 270
• GSS 281. Upstairs, Downstairs, and Outside: Gender, Class, and the Household in British History (offered Fall 2024) – same as EUS 281 and HIST 281
• GSS 287. Gender and Visual Culture – same as AVC 287

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• GSS 121. Asian American Women Writers (AC, HS)
• GSS 201. Race, Ethnicity, and Feminist Thought (HS)
• GSS 207. Eve, Adam, and the Serpent (AC, HS)
• GSS 204. Classics and the History of Sexuality (AC, HS)
• GSS 270. Sociology of Gender (HS)
• GSS 281. Upstairs, Downstairs, and Outside: Gender, Class, and the Household in British History (AC, HS)
• GSS 287. Gender and Visual Culture (AC)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/gender/

Offerings in the Department of German and Russian Studies investigate important interconnections among history, society, culture, and language in the region. The curricula in German and Russian explore societies challenged and invigorated by change and stress the importance of attaining fluency not only in the language but also in the nuances of cultural understanding.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• GER 101. Introduction to German Language and Culture I (offered Fall 2024)
• GER 105. Germany and the New Europe (offered Fall 2024) – same as EUS 105
• GER 201. Intermediate German Language and Culture I (offered Fall 2024)
• GER 233. Advanced German Language and Culture I (offered Fall 2024)
• RUSS 101. Elementary Russian I (offered Fall 2024)
• RUSS 201. Intermediate Russian I (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• GER 101. Introduction to German Language and Culture I (AC, CP)
• GER 105. Germany and the New Europe (AC, CP)
• GER 201. Intermediate German Language and Culture I (AC, CP)
• GER 233. Advanced German Language and Culture I (CP, HS)
• RUSS 101. Elementary Russian I (AC, CP)
• RUSS 201. Intermediate Russian I (AC, CP)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/german-russian/

The Hispanic Studies major and minor enable students to acquire a strong and useful proficiency in Spanish that allows them to navigate cultural spaces in which over 500 million people interact worldwide. The curriculum fosters the development of interpretative skills and contextual knowledge to engage critically a broad range of cultural productions originating in the Spanish-speaking world. The program contributes to the study of the humanities through a curriculum of courses taught in Spanish that includes studies of Latin American, Spanish and US/Latino literature, media and visual arts covering an array of historical periods, and is informed by diverse and varied theoretical approaches.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• HISP 103. Accelerated Elementary Spanish (offered Fall 2024)
• HISP 201. Intermediate Spanish I (offered Fall 2024)
• HISP 202. Intermediate Spanish II (offered Fall 2024)
• HISP 205. Advanced Spanish (offered Fall 2024)
• HISP 210. Writing Spanish (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• HISP 103. Accelerated Elementary Spanish (AC, CP)
• HISP 201. Intermediate Spanish I (AC, CP)
• HISP 202. Intermediate Spanish II (AC, CP)
• HISP 205. Advanced Spanish (AC, HS)
• HISP 210. Writing Spanish (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/spanish/

The study of the past provides meaning in the present and informed choices for the future. The task of historians is to arrange surviving materials from the past like personal diaries, eyewitness chronicles, and shards of pottery into meaningful patterns and stories. While we recommend starting with 100-level courses, the following courses are open to all first year students.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• HIST 102. Medieval Worlds – same as CMS 102 (offered Fall 2024)
• HIST 105. Africa: Special Topics in African History, 1500-1900 – same as AFR 105 (offered Fall 2024)
• HIST 141. Rise of the American Empire – same as AMST 141 (offered Fall 2024)
• HIST 171. China and Its Cultures – same as ASIA 171 (offered Fall 2024)
• HIST 211 U.S. Environmental History – same as AMST 211 and ENVR 211 (offered Fall 2024)
• HIST 212 Digital History Methods – same as DCS 212 (offered Fall 2024)
• HIST 270 Globalization and Empire: From Madrid to Manila – same as LALS 270 (offered Fall 2024)
• HIST 281 Upstairs, Downstairs, and Outside: Gender, Class, and the Household of British History – same as GSS281 and EUS281 (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• HIST 102. Medieval Worlds (AC, HS)
• HIST 141. Rise of the American Empire (AC, HS)
• HIST 171. China and Its Cultures (AC, HS)
• HIST 211. US Environmental History (AC, HS)
• HIST 212. Digital History Methods (HS)
• HIST 270. Globalization and Empire: From Madrid to Manila (AC, HS)
• HIST 281. Upstairs, Downstairs, and Outside: Gender, Class, and the Household of British History (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/history/

Latin American Studies (LAS) is an interdisciplinary program that integrates courses in the social sciences and the humanities. LAS brings together different methods of inquiry to better understand the cultures, societies and environments of Latin America, and explores the continuing importance of Latin America in a global context.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• LALS 181. Latin American History: From the Conquest to the Present – same as HIST 181
• LALS 268. US Latinx History: From Empire to Detentions – same as HIST 268
• LALS 238. Culture, Conflict, and Change in Latin America – same as ANTH 238
• LALS 270. Globalization and Empire: From Madrid to Manila – same as HIST 270 (offered Fall 2024)
• GSS 219/PLTC 219. Social Movements in Latin America 
• PLTC 249. Politics of Latin America

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• LALS 270. Globalization and Empire: From Madrid to Manila (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/latin-american-studies/

A dynamic subject, with connections to many disciplines, mathematics is an integral part of a liberal arts education, and is increasingly vital in understanding science, technology, and society.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• MATH 105. Calculus I (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 110. Great Ideas in Mathematics (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 205. Linear Algebra (offered Fall 2024)
• MATH 206. Multivariable Calculus (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• MATH 105. Calculus I (QF)
• MATH 106. Calculus II (QF)
• MATH 110. Great Ideas in Mathematics (QF)
• MATH 205. Linear Algebra (QF)
• MATH 206. Multivariable Calculus (QF)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/mathematics/

We study music from all over the world in our courses, at introductory and advanced levels. All of our courses and performance ensembles are open to general liberal arts students and music majors alike. A secondary concentration (minor) in music is available, and many of our majors pursue interdisciplinary interests or double majors. Concentrations in performance, composition, musicology, and ethnomusicology are available.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• MUS 101. Introduction to Listening (offered Fall 2024)
• MUS 212. How Music Performs Culture: Introduction to Ethnomusicology (offered Fall 2024) – same as ANTH 212
• MUS 231. Music Theory I (offered Fall 2024)
• MUS 235. Music Composition (offered Fall 2024)
• MUS 249. African American Popular Music (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• MUS 212. How Music Performs Culture: Introduction to Ethnomusicology (AC, HS)
• MUS 231. Music Theory I (AC, QF)
• MUS 235. Music Composition (CP, QF)
• MUS 249. African American Popular Music

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/music/

The field of neuroscience examines bidirectional relationships between the nervous system and behavior and includes perspectives from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. As an inherently interdisciplinary field, neuroscience applies various methodologies to study the molecular, cellular, developmental, structural, functional, computational, and pathophysiological aspects of the nervous system, while bearing in mind that nervous systems are embodied and are situated in complex, dynamic environments.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• NRSC 160. Introduction to Neuroscience – same as PSYC 160 (offered Fall 2024)
• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (offered Fall 2024)
• BIO 195. Lab-Based Biological Inquiry (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• CHEM 107A. Atomic and Molecular Structure/Lab (QF, SR)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/neuroscience/

The practice of philosophy is a careful study of competing conceptions of our shared humanity, the nature of the world, how we justify our beliefs and values, and more. While the discipline of Western philosophy has a historical lineage traced back through Europe and Ancient Greece, increasingly the practice of philosophy includes previously marginalized perspectives in order to understand the human being in all its embodied identities. The Bates philosophy curriculum emphasizes both the history of philosophical thought and the striking innovations, insights, and relevance of contemporary philosophy.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• PHIL 195. Introduction to Logic (offered Fall 2024)
• PHIL 211. Philosophy of Science (offered Fall 2024)
• PHIL 214. Environmental Ethics (offered Fall 2024)
• PHIL 258. Philosophy of Law (offered Fall 2024)
• PHIL 271. Ancient Philosophy – same as CMS 271 (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• PHIL 195. Introduction to Logic (QF)
• PHIL 211. Philosophy of Science (AC)
• PHIL 214. Environmental Ethics (AC)
• PHIL 258. Philosophy of Law (AC, HS)
• PHIL 271. Ancient Philosophy (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/philosophy/

Introductory courses in physics and astronomy are designed to give students a broad background in the fundamentals of the discipline, an introduction to the logic and philosophy of science, and insight into the understanding and applications of contemporary physics and astrophysics.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• PHYS 107. Introductory Physics of Living Systems I/Lab (offered Fall 2024) – note: this course is aimed at students in the life sciences, particularly those with pre-health interest, but is usually taken, in that case, during the second year as students with pre-health interests should take CHEM 107/107 first.. If first-year students are more interested in the physical sciences than pre-health they should take PHYS 109.
• PHYS 109. Energy, Matter, and Motion (offered Fall 2024) –  note: first year students with any interest in physics, chemistry, mathematics, or engineering should register for PHYS 109
• PHYS 211. Newtonian Mechanics (offered Fall 2024) Students with a strong background in physics can begin with this core course, with permission of the instructor. Note: this course is ideal for a student who comes to Bates with extensive physics preparation including but not limited to students with International Baccalaureate (IB) preparation

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• PHYS 107. Introductory Physics of Living Systems (QF, SR)
• PHYS 109. Energy, Matter, and Motion (QF, SR)
• PHYS 211. Newtonian Mechanics (QF, SR)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/physics-astronomy/

The discipline analyzes political processes at individual, local, national, and international levels. Students study topics such as states, political institutions, social movements, political ideologies, identities, cooperation, conflict, war, and diplomacy.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• PLTC 115. U.S. Political Institutions and Processes (offered Fall 2024 and Winter 2025)
• PLTC 121. Moral Questions and Political Choice (offered Fall 2024)
• PLTC 122. Government and Politics in Comparative Perspective (offered Fall 2024)
• PLTC 125. States and Markets (offered Fall 2024)
• PLTC 155. Gender, Power, and Politics – same as GSS 155 (offered Winter 2025)
• PLTC 171. International Politics (offered Fall 2024 and Winter 2025)
• PLTC 191. Western Political Theory (offered Winter 2025)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• PLTC 115. U.S. Political Institutions and Processes (HS)
• PLTC 121. Moral Questions and Political Choice (AC, HS)
• PLTC 122. Government and Politics in Comparative Perspective (HS)
• PLTC 125. States and Markets (HS)
• PLTC 171. International Politics (HS)
• PLTC 191. Western Political Theory (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/politics/

Students who major in psychology examine behavior and mental processes using the scientific method and learn to apply this knowledge in real-world and laboratory settings.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• PSYC 101. Principles of Psychology [If a student has transfer credit for PSYC 101, they may elect a course for which PSYC 101 is a prerequisite, except PSYC 218 (Statistics) which is not open to first-year students.] – (offered Fall 2024)
• PSYC 160. Introduction to Neuroscience – same as NRSC 160 (offered Fall 2024)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/psychology/

Have you ever wondered about the meaning of life? Of death? Love? Compassion? Commitment? Welcome to Religious Studies. The academic study of religion provides an opportunity to explore how different cultures – throughout history and in the present – grapple with these enduring questions and many others.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• REL 112. Introduction to Islam: Religion, Practice, and Culture (offered Fall 2024)
• REL 155. Introduction to Asian Religions – same as ASIA 155 (offered Fall 2024)
• REL 218. Greek and Roman Myths – same as CMS 218 (offered Fall 2023)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• REL 155. Introduction to Asian Religions (AC, HS)
• REL 207. Eve, Adam, and the Serpent (AC, HS)
• REL 272. Islam in the Americas (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/religion/

Students complete a series of core courses in rhetorical theory and criticism, history of public address, and film and television studies, complemented by courses on language, media, and communication drawn from the curricula of other departments.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• RFSS 100. What is Rhetoric? (offered Fall 2024)
• RFSS 120. Introduction to Screen Studies (offered Fall 2024)
• RFSS 185. Public Discourse (offered Fall 2024)
• RFSS 202. Coming of Age While Black – same as AFR 202
• RFSS 220. Constructions of Italian American Masculinities (offered Fall 2024)
• RFSS 260. Lesbian and Gay Images in Film 
• RFSS 265. The Rhetoric of Women’s Rights

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• RFSS 100. What is Rhetoric? (AC, HS)
• RFSS 185. Public Discourse (AC, CP)
• RFSS 220. Constructions of Italian American Masculinities (AC, HS)
• RFSS 260. Lesbian and Gay Images in Film (AC, HS)
• RFSS 202. Coming of Age While Black (AC, HS)
• RFSS 265. The Rhetoric of Women’s Rights (AC, HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/rhetoric-film-screen-studies/

The curriculum in Sociology is designed to introduce students to a sociological perspective, which explores social structures and their intersections with individual lives. Courses address a wide range of social phenomena, from patterns of everyday interaction to social and political revolutions. Sociology as a discipline focuses on recognizing and analyzing social determinants that shape our lives. That focus offers a unique potential not only for understanding society, but also for social action and social change.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• SOC 101. Principles of Sociology (offered Fall 2024)
• SOC 103. Macrosociology: Institutions and Structures 
• SOC 104. Contemporary Social Problems: Sociological Perspectives (offered Fall 2024)
• SOC 211. Crime, Justice and Society 
• SOC 221. Sociology of Immigration – same as AFR 221
• SOC 226. Sports, Gender, and Nation in Latin America – same as LALS 226
• SOC 230. Sociology of Health and Illness 
• SOC 231. Sociology of Religion (offered Fall 2024)
• SOC 235. Global Health: Sociological Perspectives 
• SOC 236. Urban Sociology (offered Fall 2024)
• SOC 250. Privilege, Power, and Inequality 
• SOC 260. Economic Sociology
• SOC 270. Sociology of Gender – same as GSS 270
• SOC 290. Political Sociology – same as EUS 270 (offered Fall 2024)

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• SOC 101. Principles of Sociology (AC, HS)
• SOC 103. Macrosociology: Institutions and Structures (HS)
• SOC 104. Contemporary Social Problems: Sociological Perspectives (HS)
• SOC 211. Crime, Justice and Society (HS)
• SOC 221. Sociology of Immigration (HS)
• SOC 226. Sports, Gender, and Nation in Latin America 
• SOC 230. Sociology of Health and Illness (HS)
• SOC 235. Global Health: Sociological Perspectives (HS)
• SOC 236. Urban Sociology (HS)
• SOC 250. Privilege, Power, and Inequality (HS)
• SOC 260. Economic Sociology (HS)
• SOC 270. Sociology of Gender (HS)
• SOC 290. Political Sociology (HS)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/sociology/

Our program in Theater combines the study of performance theory, history, and literature with studio work in acting, directly, dance, and design. There are a range of performance opportunities for first years both on stage and in the back stage production community.

Our program in Dance combines studies in the theory and cultural context of dance, physical practice and creative process. We encourage original choreographic work and provide a variety of performing opportunities for students at all levels of experience.

As an entry point into this area of study, we recommend any of the following courses:

• THEA 105. Introduction to Performance Studies (offered Fall 2024) – same as DANC 105
• THEA 130. Introduction to Design 
• THEA 132. Theater Technology (offered Fall 2024) – same as DANC 132
• THEA 202. Devising Performance (offered Fall 2024) – same as DANC 202
• THEA 240. Playwriting (offered Fall 2024)
• THEA 261. Beginning Acting (offered Fall 2024)
• THEA 263. Voice and Speech (offered Fall 2024)
• DANC 151. Making Dances 
• DANC 270A. Studio: Modern I (offered Fall 2024)
• DANC 270B. Studio: Ballet I (offered Fall 2024)
• DANC 270E. Studio: Jazz I (offered Fall 2024)
• DANC 270G. Studio: Ensemble Intermediate (offered Fall 2024)
• DANC 270Q. Studio: West African Dance of Guinea (offered Fall 2024) 

These courses also enable you to complete the general education requirements because they are tagged as (MOI):

• THEA 105. Introduction to Performance Studies (AC, HS)
• THEA 130. Introduction to Design (AC, CP)
• THEA 202. Devising Performance (AC, CP)
• THEA 240. Playwriting (AC, CP)
• THEA 261. Beginning Acting (AC, CP)
• THEA 263. Voice and Speech (CP)
• DANC 151. Making Dances (AC, CP)
• DANC 240. Embodied Anatomy and Kinesthetics (SR)
• DANC 262. Embodying Activism: Performing a Living Definition (AC, CP)
• DANC 270A. Studio: Modern I (CP)
• DANC 270B. Studio: Ballet I (CP)
• DANC 270E. Studio: Jazz I (CP)
• DANC 270N. Studio: Ballet III (CP)

Link to Department/Program webpage: https://www.bates.edu/dance/ https://www.bates.edu/theater/