page 405

2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS




















LING 361 (3)
Introduction to Morphology
Morphology is the study of the meaningful pieces that make
up words. Introduces students to the major morphological
typologies of the worlds languages through analysis of data
sets from different languages that represent those typologies.
Students will discover how morphological systems work through
examination of data from languages as diverse in their structure
as Chinese, Navajo, and Russian. Prerequisites: LING 100 or 300
or 300B or 305 or GRMN 331 or SPAN 331. Enrollment restricted to
students with Junior or Senior standing.
LING 371 (3)
Language and Culture
An exploration of the way language shapes and is shaped
by culture. Investigates different aspects of language structure
which exhibit cultural variation, patterns of cognition and
language acquisition, and the socio-linguistic and psycho-
linguistic dimensions of cultural variation. It highlights data from
English, Spanish, and immigrant and indigenous languages
of California. Course may include community field work. Enrollment
restricted to students with Junior or Senior standing.
LING 381 (3)
Language and Gender
Gender roles are dynamic, yet culturally bound. They are
determined as a group, yet performed by individuals. These
roles are products of historical, sociological, geographic,
economic, and linguistic phenomena. All of these contribute
to the development of a culture, and all are encoded and
reflected in the language used. Students will discover how
these phenomena work together in the social contexts of
various cultures, with a particular focus on the role language
plays in creating and reporting gender roles. May not be taken for
credit by students who have received credit for ID 370M or WMST 300B.
Enrollment restricted to students with Junior or Senior standing.
LING 391 (3)
Phonetics and Phonology
Introduction to the phonetic properties of speech sounds and
their organization into sound systems. Practice in recognizing,
transcribing, and describing sounds. Basic principles and
methods of phonological analysis and theory. Recommended
Preparation: LING 300 or 305 or GRMN 331 or SPAN 331. Enrollment
restricted to students with Junior or Senior standing.
LING 400 (3)
Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Literacy
Focuses on the multi-dimensional nature of literacy: linguistic
(systems of language and their interaction in written discourse);
cognitive (psychological strategies and processes used to make
meaning through written discourse); sociocultural (ways individ-
uals use literacy to mediate their interactions with their society,
culture, and discipline); developmental (the manner in which
the linguistic, cognitive, and sociocultural aspects of literacy
are learned); and educational (issues related to the teaching of
literacy in school settings). Prerequisites: LING 300/300B or 305.
LING 451 (3)
Bilingualism
Multi-dimensional study of bilingualism including: bilingual
language and cognitive development, transgenerational patterns,
effects of cultural patterns, and political policies toward
bilingualism. Prerequisite: LING 351. Enrollment restricted to students
with Junior or Senior standing.
LING 480 (3)
Field Methods for Linguistics
Introduces the process of discovering structures of a language
from data obtained directly from its speakers. Emphasizes
effectiveness in the field context, the ethics of linguistic field
work, rapid recognition of structural features, and preliminary
formulation of a descriptive grammar using computational tools.
Prerequisite: LING 300 or 305. Enrollment restricted to students with Junior
or Senior standing.
LING 499 (3)
Supervised Independent Study
Addresses a special interest not covered in a regular course or
provides an opportunity to explore in greater depth a subject
introduced in a regular course. Discussion in individual confer-
ences. May be repeated for a total of six (6) units. Enrollment restricted to
students who have obtained consent of instructor.
LITERATURE AND WRITING STUDIES (LTWR)
College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and
Social Sciences
LTWR 100 (3)
Introduction to Literature
An inquiry into the basic nature of literature. Questions raised in
this course may include: What prompts the creation of imagina-
tive literature? What purpose does literature serve in the cultural
life of a community? What are its social, philosophical, spiritual,
and aesthetic values? Some consideration may be given to
techniques and major critical theories, but the focus will be on
critical reading for the nonspecialist. Specific works studied will
be representative of several genres, cultures, and periods of
literature.
LTWR 105 (3)
Texts That Have Changed the World
Examines the cultural role of literature by studying the way
texts respond to ethical and moral questions affecting the
past and present while also shaping the future. Special
attention given to how texts react to each other and how
they promote and respond to economic, political, social, and
scientific changes. Students will participate in and learn about
the human condition and searches for meaning, understanding,
spirituality, artistic expression, communication, national identity,
ethnic roots, gender identity, and new worlds. Incorporates
activities and materials such as films, music, multimedia
presentations and applications, field trips, and guest speakers.
Stresses critical thinking, reading, and writing as well as
cooperative, interactive, and technological learning. The course
does not count towards the LTWR major or minor.
page 406
2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS













LTWR 107 (3)
Humor
Broad humanistic exploration of a variety of texts in which
humor manifests itself, such as comedies, jokes, and satires, in
an effort to understand how humor operates in them and how
humor as a text may be distinguished from humor in other
media. Examines theories of humor over the centuries and
cross-cultural differences in the theory and practice of humor.
LTWR 115 (3)
Critical Reading and Writing
Critical thinking through reading and written analysis of various
genres of writing. Special attention to the use of metaphoric
language, the function and meaning of symbols, the structure
of arguments, the use of logic, and the value of imaginative
writing, particularly in relationship to ethical and moral questions.
Prerequisite: GEW 101
LTWR 203 (3)
Literature and Health
Explores how literature and film articulate the personal and
social dimensions of illness, pain and suffering, and human
bodily variations and changes (race, class, sexualities, age,
and disability). Interrogates ethical conflicts in the philosophy,
technology, and practice of medicine as represented by litera-
ture and film. Genres include poetry, fiction, drama, and
non-fiction. Texts range from the Bible, Greek drama, and
Shakespeare through contemporary literature and film, including
writing by doctors and nurses. Introduces basic modes of
literary and film analysis.
LTWR 206 (3)
Fantastic Journeys and Other Worlds
Explores the theme of the journey in world literature. Examines
the powerful metaphors of travel, quest, passage, voyaging,
pilgrimage, exile, homelessness, homecoming, wandering, and
sojourning as they have played out in both classics and
selected modern works. The works offer a variety of types of
literary and cultural texts and a variety of literary styles and
cultural strategies. Incorporates activities and materials such
as texts, films, music, lectures, multimedia presentations and
applications, field trips, and guest speakers. Stresses critical
thinking, reading, and writing as well as cooperative, interactive,
and technological learning.
LTWR 208A (3)
World Literature: Antiquity to the 16th Century
An introduction to world literatures from antiquity to the 16th
Century. Critical analyses of literary works from multiple areas of
the globe. Studies of selected texts to include novels, poetry,
or plays. Survey of the literature to examine various writers
and their influence on the cultural/intellectual life of a particular
country, together with their contributions to the advancement of
literature and/or important literary movements.
LTWR 208B (3)
World Literature: 17th Century to the Present
An introduction to world literatures from the 17th Century to
the present. Critical analyses of literary works from multiple
areas of the globe. Studies of selected texts to include
novels, poetry, or plays. Survey of the literature to examine
various writers and their influence on the cultural/intellectual life
of a particular country, together with their contributions to the
advancement of literature and/or important literary movements.
LTWR 210 (3)
Introduction to Global Literature
Survey examining literatures from various parts and cultures of
the globe, such as Europe, Asia, North and South America,
and Africa. Introduction to literary analysis of global texts.
LTWR 211 (3)
Introduction to Womens Literature
Introduces students to literary works by women within changing
socio-cultural contexts from the 18th to 21st century. Analyzes
the role of gender and sexuality in creative works and literary
criticism, including questions of womens traditions, genre, and
aesthetics. Explores a diverse range of historical writing by
women in English; may include recent examples of works in
translation from other literary contexts. Also offered as WMST 211.
Students may not receive credit for both.
LTWR 225 (3)
Introduction to Creative Writing
Beginners workshop for students interested in writing fiction,
poetry, and drama. Students will engage in both creative and
analytical writing.
LTWR 300A (3)
History and Practice of Literary Commentary I
Survey of literary criticism from the Classical Period to New
Criticism. Student writing will be based on critical practices,
methods of reading, modes of interdisciplinary analysis and
argumentation, and debates on questions of theory, history,
and textual scholarship. Prerequisites: GEW 101 and either LTWR 100,
208A, 208B or 210. Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-
division General Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
LTWR 300B (3)
History and Practice of Literary Commentary II
Survey of current trends in critical theory, including Feminism,
Marxism, Poststructuralism, Psychoanalysis, and Cultural Studies.
Student writing will be based on critical practices, and methods
of reading, modes of interdisciplinary analysis and argumenta-
tion, and recent debates on questions of theory, history, and
textual scholarship. Prerequisites: GEW 101 and either LTWR 100,
208A, 208B or 210. Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-
division General Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
LTWR 301 (1-3)
Topics in Writing
Selected topics in the writing field. May be repeated for credit as
topics change for a total of six (6) units. Students should check the Class
Schedule for listing of actual topics.
LTWR 302 (3)
Topics in Literature
Selected topics in literature. May be repeated for credit as topics
change for a total of six (6) units. Students should check the Class
Schedule for listing of actual topics.
page 407
2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS




































LTWR 303 (3)
Masterworks in Literature
An introduction to masterpieces of the literary tradition,
emphasizing historical, cultural, generic, and thematic connec-
tions. Interrogates the conditions under which these works are
considered masterpieces, and examines the social, philosoph-
ical, spiritual, and aesthetic values embedded within the works
and the cultures that produce them. The content of each
course is reflected by its sub-title. Intended for the non-major, but
LTWR majors may petition their advisors to accept this course toward the
major on a case-by-case basis. May be repeated as issues/themes change
for a total of six (6) units.
A. U.S. War Literature
B. Nobel Laureates
C. California Stories
LTWR 305 (3)
Forms of Written Discourse
A review of current rhetorical and discourse theories. The
course will also examine recent developments in text linguistics.
Students will write several discourse types and explore differ-
ences among the types, with special attention to differences
for the writing process and for the structure of the written
discourse itself.
LTWR 307 (3)
Writing Workshop in Argument and Analysis
Focused study of the elements of argumentation, such as
audience, tone, style, structure, logic, claims, and evidence.
Explores methods of analysis that help writers draw sound
and insightful conclusions. Attention will be given to making
appropriate rhetorical decisions in various writing contexts.
Students will be asked to present their own writing in class
and to respond both to published literature and to the writing
of other students. Prerequisites: GEW 101 and either LTWR 100,
208A, 208B or 210. Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-
division General Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
LTWR 308A (3)
English Literature I
Survey of literature and culture of England from the Fall of
Rome to 1660. Prerequisites: GEW 101 and either LTWR 100, 208A,
208B or 210. Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-division
General Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
LTWR 308B (3)
English Literature II
Survey of literature and culture of England from the Restoration
to the present. Prerequisites: GEW 101 and either LTWR 100, 208A,
208B or 210. Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-division
General Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
LTWR 309A (3)
United States Literature I
Survey of literature and culture of the United States from the
Colonial Period to American Romanticism. Prerequisites: GEW
101 and either LTWR 100, 208A, 208B or 210. Enrollment Requirement:
Completion of the lower-division General Education requirement in Critical
Thinking (A3).
LTWR 309B (3)
United States Literature II
Survey of literature and culture of the United States from
Realism to the present. Prerequisites: GEW 101 and either LTWR 100,
208A, 208B or 210. Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-
division General Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
LTWR 310 (3)
Folklore and Mythology
Study of folk traditions and mythology as reflections and
expressions of distinctive cultures as well as the general human
condition. Subject matter may deal with issues such as mythic
theory, the uses of myth in various literary genres, or the
themes and forms of orally transmitted literature. Only six (6)
units of credit may be applied toward the major.
LTWR 315 (3)
Nonfiction Prose Workshops
A workshop for students interested in practicing writing in the
professions, reportage, critical or general nonfiction prose. May
be repeated; up to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation require-
ments, but only six (6) units may be applied toward major requirements in
Literature and Writing Studies.
LTWR 317 (3)
Technical Writing
A workshop for students interested in practicing writing in the
professions.
LTWR 318 (3)
Writing in Community
A practicum in various aspects of developing literary community,
including small press publishing (independent distribution,
manuscript editing, literary magazines, small press books,
and blog publishing) and public literary activities (organizing
and attending public creative writing workshops and a public
literary series). Writing and reading assignments will draw from
CSUSMs active literary communities. Strongly recommended: an
interest in creative writing and/or contemporary literature. May be repeated
up to nine (9) units with different course content, but only six (6) units may
count towards the LTWR major and graduation requirements.
LTWR 320 (3)
Sacred Texts
Study of selected texts drawn from the worlds religious
traditions Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Taoist,
Confucian, and Muslim. Emphasis will be on the intrinsic
literary interest of these texts as well as their thematic impact
on other genres. May be repeated; up to nine (9) units may be applied
to graduation requirements, but only six (6) units may be applied toward
major requirements in Literature and Writing Studies.
LTWR 325 (3)
Creative Writing Workshop I
This creative writing workshop in multiple genres will focus
on student writing. Writing assignments on different literary
techniques will be coupled with the readings of literature that
highlights those techniques. Students will be asked to present their
own writing in class and to respond both to published literature and the
writing of other students. Prerequisites: GEW 101 and either LTWR 100,
208A, 208B or 210.Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-
division General Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
page 408
2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

LTWR 330 (3)
Poetry
Studiesvariousgenresand/orformsofpoetrysuchasmodern
Americanwomenspoetry,lyricpoetry,epicpoetry,andmore. May
be repeated; up to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation require-
ments, but only six (6) units may be applied toward major requirements in
Literature and Writing Studies.
LTWR 331 (3)
Fiction
Studiesvariousgenresand/orformsoffictionsuchasshort
stories,novels,detectivefiction,andmore. May be repeated; up
to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements, but only six (6)
units may be applied toward major requirements in Literature and Writing
Studies.
LTWR 332 (3)
Non-Fiction
Studiesvariousgenresand/orformsofnon-fictionsuchas
biography,autobiography,essays,travelwriting,andmore. May
be repeated; up to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation require-
ments, but only six (6) units may be applied toward major requirements in
Literature and Writing Studies.
LTWR 333 (3)
Drama
Studiesvariousgenresand/orformsofdramasuchastragedy,
comedy,theateroftheabsurd,andmore. May be repeated; up
to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements, but only six (6)
units may be applied toward major requirements in Literature and Writing
Studies.
LTWR 334 (3)
Film
Studiesvariousgenres,forms,and/ordirectorsoffilm.The
contentofeachcourseisreflectedbyitssub-title.May be
repeated as issues/themes change; up to nine (9) units may be applied
to graduation requirements, but only six (6) units may be applied toward
major requirements in Literature and Writing Studies.
A.TheWestern
B.WomenBeforeandBehindtheCamera
C.AsianFilm
LTWR 336 (3)
Film and Other Genres
Studiesvariousgenresand/orfilmsinrelationshiptoother
artsortexts.Thecontentofeachcourseisreflectedbyits
sub-title.Together with LTWR 334, may be repeated as issues/themes
change; up to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements,
but only six (6) units may be applied toward major requirements in Literature
and Writing Studies.
A.HitchcockandtheMastersofSuspense
B.DetectiveFilmsandNovels
C.TheAmericanGildedAgein
FilmandFiction
D.EuropeanCinema
E.JaneAusten:NovelintoFilm
LTWR 337 (3)
American Film and Politics
Across-disciplinaryexaminationoftheintegralroleofpolitics
inboththemakingandmessagesofAmericanfilm. Explores
theimpactofpoliticsonAmericanfilmmakingthroughsuch
issuesascensorship,theHollywoodblacklist,andthesignifi-
canceofindependentfilmmaking. Alsostudiestheuseoffilm
toconveypoliticalmessagesandinfluencepublicopinionin
suchmattersaspatriotism,pacifism,andracial/ethnicrelations.
Bothmainstreamandindependentfilmswillbeaddressed,
andliteraturefromthehumanitiesandthesocialscienceswill
beincorporated. May not be taken for credit by students who have
received credit for LTWR 336 and PSCI 419B. May be taken for credit
as an elective course for the PSCI major (within the U.S. Government and
Politics field) and the PSCI Minor.
LTWR 338 (3)
Childrens Literature into Film
Comparativeanalysisofclassicandaward-winningnovels
(nineteenthcenturytothepresent)andfilmsbasedonthem,
withattentiontoculturalhistoryofthechildandofliterature
forchildren. Emphasisonrecurrentthemesandliterarytropes
andkeyproblemsforcritics,teachers,andparents. Aswell
asbasictermsandstrategiesforliteraryanalysis,studentswill
learnandusebasicsoffilmanalysis. Distinctfromchildrens
literaturecoursesofferedinmostdepartments/collegesof
educationinthatitsprimaryfocusisthecriticalanalysisof
literature,film,andculture,ratherthanlinkingtextstochild
developmentorguidingstudentsinappropriatemethodsfor
selectingtextsforcoursesinprimaryandsecondaryeducation.
Thecourseisnonethelessusefulandinterestingtofuture
teachersandanyonewhospendstimewithchildrenoris
interestedinwritingforchildren.May not be taken by students who
have received credit for LTWR 302L.
LTWR 339 (3)
Advanced Expository Writing
Exploresthecomplexitiesofproducingsophisticatedwritten
analysisandargumentcharacteristicofintellectualworkin
theacademy,professionalwriting,andothersitesofcultural
discourse.Addressesthepoliticsofwritingbypreparing
studentsforvariouswritingsituations,withattentiongivento
criticalreading,rhetoricalanalysis,respondingtoandmaking
useoftheworkofothers,substantiverevision,andengaging
withavarietyofrhetoricalconventions. Prerequisite: GEW
101. Enrollment Requirement: Completion of the lower-division General
Education requirement in Critical Thinking (A3).
LTWR 340 (3)
The Monstrous, the Grotesque, and the Occult
Surveysdiscoursesofthemonstrous-frompsychological
theoriesofthegrotesquetoancientfolkloreabouttheoccult
topostmodernghoststoriesliketheX-Fileswhichtryto
explaintheincomprehensibilityofourworld. Examinationof
varioustextswillrevealhowculturehasasked,andanswered,
suchquestionsaswhoweareandhowwevecometobe
ourselves.Stressescriticalthinking,reading,andwritingaswell
ascooperative,interactive,andtechnologicallearning.
page 409
2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

















LTWR 350 (3)
Reclaiming the Humanities
Introduces students to origins of the Humanities in the
Western tradition and places works of that tradition within
a global historical context. Issues include: specific contribu-
tion of religious and philosophical systems to a definition of
the humanities, how artists have shaped changing notions of
what constitutes the humanities, and how non-Western systems
of evaluating human and social endeavors have challenged
Western notions of the humanities.
LTWR 400 (3)
Author Studies
Critical analysis of the major works of one or two authors in
any historical period or geographical location, with attention to
biography, culture, and literary background. May be repeated; up
to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements, but only six (6)
units may be applied toward major requirements in Literature and Writing
Studies.
LTWR 402 (3)
Studies in Shakespeare
Study of the writings of Shakespeare. Critical analysis of
Shakespeares major plays, which might include emphasis on
Shakespeare and the Human Condition, Shakespeares Comic
Vision, the Tragic Vision of Shakespeare, the Historical Plays, or
a combination of plays, poems and variant themes. Students
should refer to the Class Schedule for specific course content.
LTWR 410 (3)
Global Literature I
Survey to examine the literature(s) from a particular culture or
area of the globe. Analysis of ways in which literature reflects
and expresses culture. May be repeated; up to nine (9) units may be
applied to graduation requirements, but only six (6) units may be applied
toward major requirements in Literature and Writing Studies.
LTWR 415 (3)
Literary and Cinematic Representations of the Middle East and
North Africa
Analyzes cultural and social representations of the Middle East
and North Africa through fiction and film. Major topics such
as cultural identity, religion, history, and society will be studied.
Special emphasis will be on the historic and cultural interaction
between the Middle East and the West.
LTWR 420 (3)
Global Literature II
Survey to compare literatures from various parts of the globe.
Analysis of ways in which literatures reflect and express similari-
ties and differences among cultures. May be repeated; up to
nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements, but only six (6)
units may be applied toward major requirements in Literature and Writing
Studies.
LTWR 425 (3)
Creative Writing Workshop 2
Creative writing workshop in multiple genres will help students
develop their prior workshop experience and individual
repertoires while expanding their range of literary knowledge.
Writing assignments will be coupled with reading that highlights
key technical elements of the literary arts. Students will be
asked to present their own writing in class and to respond
both to published literature and the writing of other students.
May be repeated; up to six (6) units may be applied to graduation require-
ments, but only three (3) may be applied toward major requirements in
Literature and Writing Studies. Prerequisite: LTWR 325.
LTWR 430 (3)
Major Periods and Movements
Approaches to literature or literary ideas by locating them within
a specific historical context or a literary background. May be
repeated; up to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements,
but only six (6) units may be applied toward major requirements in Literature
and Writing Studies.
LTWR 431 (3)
U.S. Environmental Literature
Explores the U.S. literary and cultural history of the idea of
nature. Focuses on the characteristic rhetorical strategies of
environmental literature or nature writing - such as claims of
spiritual connection and recreation, blending of description and
celebration, and direct and indirect political argument. Interprets
the texts we read in the context of the long development from
agrarian colony to industrial capitalist nation, with the goal of
understanding how the way we organize our society and its
relation to the environment influences the way we think about
nature.
LTWR 441 (3)
Literature and Other Arts and Disciplines
Comparative study of literature and other arts or other
academic disciplines such as anthropology, science, philosophy,
or psychology. The content of each course is reflected by its
sub-title. May be repeated as issues/themes change; up to nine (9) units
may be applied to graduation requirements, but only six (6) units may be
applied toward major requirements
in Literature and Writing Studies.
A. The Modern Subject in Literature, Art, Film and
Psychoanalysis
LTWR 450 (3)
Comparative American Ethnic Literature
Comparison of various ethnic American discourses such
as African American, Chinese American, Jewish American,
Latino/a American, Japanese American, Native American, Italian
American, and Vietnamese American. Includes analysis of a
variety of different genres ranging from autobiography to novel
to poetry, and examines texts through thematic and/or historical
frameworks in order to view them as products of varying
cultural and historical circumstances. Questions notions of
American identity and the American canon.
page 410
2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS


































LTWR 460 (3)
Theories, Methods, and Themes in Cultural Studies
Readings in some of the major conceptual texts that have
framed work in cultural studies, with particular emphasis
on those drawn from critical theory, studies in colonialism,
cultural anthropology, feminism, semiotics, gay/lesbian studies,
and historicism. Examination of literature among other cultural
artifacts in a variety of social contexts and from a number of
theoretical and historical perspectives. Prerequisites: LTWR 300A
and 300B.
LTWR 465 (3)
Theory and Practice of K-12 Writing Instruction
Introduction to current theory and practice of teaching writing in
K-12. Special attention to advanced critical reading and writing
skills.
LTWR 475 (3)
The Writing Process
A workshop in advanced expository writing as a creative
process. Current research on creativity and the writing process
will also be discussed. May be repeated for a total of six (6) units.
LTWR 490 (3)
Senior Seminar
Research and writing for a variety of special topics, including
the works of single authors, genre studies, problems of literary
history, relations between literature and the history of ideas,
literary criticism, literature and society, and the like. Intended for
students wishing to pursue graduate study.
LTWR 495A (1) 495(B) 495C (3) 495D (4) 495E (5)
495F (6)
Internship
Supervised experience teaching writing at the K-12 or college
level or work experience in public agencies and private
industries that provide opportunities to develop professional
writing skills. Students working in CSUSMs Writing Center should
enroll for credit. No more than three (3) units may be applied toward the
major. May be repeated for a total of six (6) units of credit. All internships
are graded Credit/No Credit except CSUSMs Writing Center. Enrollment
restricted to students who have obtained consent of instructor.
LTWR 499A (1) 499(B) 499C (3) 499D (4) 499E (5)
499F (6)
Supervised Independent Study
Independent study deals with a special interest not covered
in a regular course or with exploration in greater depth of a
subject introduced in a regular course. Discussion in individual
conferences. May be repeated once for a total of up to six (6) units of
credit. Graded Credit/No Credit. Note: This course cannot be substituted
for other courses in the major without petition approval by the Literature and
Writing Studies Curriculum Committee. Enrollment restricted to students
who have obtained consent of instructor.
LTWR 501 (3)
Advanced Topics in Writing Studies
Selected Topics in Writing Studies. May be repeated for a total of (6)
units with new course content. Students should check the Class Schedule
for listing of actual topics. Prerequisite for undergraduates: Completion of
LTWR 300A and 300B. Additional enrollment requirement for undergradu-
ates: Nine (9) additional units of LTWR courses at the 300 or 400 level.
LTWR 502 (3)
Advanced Topics in Literature
Selected topics in literature. May be repeated for a total of (6) units
with new course content. Students should check the Class Schedule for
listing of actual topics. Prerequisite for undergraduates: Completion of
LTWR 300A and 300B. Additional enrollment requirement for undergradu-
ates: Nine (9) additional units of LTWR courses at the 300 or 400 level.
LTWR 503 (3)
Literary Period or Movement
Advanced, historically oriented study of a literary period, such
as the Renaissance, or a movement, such as Postmodernism.
The content of each course is reflected by its sub-title. Prerequisite for
undergraduates: Completion of LTWR 300A and 300B. Additional enroll-
ment requirement for undergraduates: Nine (9) additional units of LTWR
courses at the 300 or 400 level. May be repeated as issues/themes
change; up to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements,
but only six (6) may be applied toward major requirements or the Masters
degree in Literature and Writing Studies.
A. Renaissance to Romanticism
B. Postmodern Narratives of Identity
C. Marxism and Literature
D. The Literature of Witchcraft
LTWR 504 (3)
Advanced Author Studies
Advanced critical studies of a major author or authors. Special
attention will be given to the cultural production of the text(s)
as well as the historical reception of the author. The content of
each course is reflected by its sub-title. Prerequisite for undergrad-
uates: Completion of LTWR 300A and 300B. Additional enrollment
requirement for undergraduates: Nine (9) additional units of LTWR courses
at the 300 or 400 level. May be repeated as issues/themes change; up
to nine (9) units may be applied to graduation requirements, but only six
(6) may be applied toward major requirements or the Masters degree in
Literature and Writing Studies.
A. Collins/Victorian Novel
B. Johnson and Boswell
LTWR 509 (3)
Classical Rhetoric
A close study of Classical Rhetoric. Examines the relationships
between discourse and knowledge, communication and its
effects, and language and experience. Explores the possibilities
for understanding the nature of persuasive discourse: purpose,
audience, composition, argumentation, organization, and style.
Selected major works on rhetoric, from antiquity to the 19th
Century. Relationship between the rhetorical tradition and
modern approaches to the teaching of writing and literature.
May not be taken for credit by students who have received credit for
LTWR 609. Prerequisite for undergraduates: Completion of LTWR 300A
and 300B. Additional enrollment requirement for undergraduates: Nine (9)
additional units of LTWR courses at the 300 or 400 level.
page 411
2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS





























LTWR 511 (3)
Literature in Translation
Study of select literary texts and literary criticism written in
languages other than English. Students will study texts in
the original language and compare them to their English
translation(s) with a focus on idiom, style, grammar, and
argumentative detail. Includes a survey of translation theory.
Requires good (i.e., equivalent of third-year instruction) reading
knowledge of a foreign language. Completion with a grade
of B or better satisfies the Language Other than English
Requirement for graduate students in Literature and Writing
Studies. May be repeated for a maximum of six (6) units. Prerequisite
for undergraduates: Completion of LTWR 300A and 300B. Additional
enrollment requirement for undergraduates: Nine (9) additional units of
LTWR courses at the 300 or 400 level.
LTWR 512 (3)
Modern Rhetoric
A close study of 20th Century rhetoric: composition, theory,
reading theory, psycho-linguistics, sociolinguistics, language
philosophy, and literary theory. Relationship between rhetorical
theory and modern approaches to the study and pedagogy of
writing and literature. Prerequisite for undergraduates: Completion of
LTWR 300A and 300B. Additional enrollment requirement for undergradu-
ates: Nine (9) additional units of LTWR courses at the 300 or 400 level.
LTWR 513 (3)
Studies in Contemporary Literature
Focuses on literature produced within the last 20-25 years,
including fiction, poetry, drama, and mixed genre work. Explores
narrative, poetic, and dramatic structures (both conventional and
non-conventional) and the relationship between literary conven-
tions and cultural context. Course assignments can be creative,
analytical, or some combination of both. Specific geograph-
ical focus varies, but in some semesters, the course will
emphasize world or non-western literature. Students may also
be required to attend several public literary readings. Together
with LTWR 502A, may be repeated as issues/themes change for a total of
six (6) units. Prerequisite for undergraduates: LTWR 308B and 309B.
LTWR 525 (3)
Theory and Practice of College Writing Instruction
Wide reading in current theory and practice of teaching writing
at the university level. Exploration of the implications for writing
instruction of current discourse theory and linguistics (sentence-
level and text-level). Review research on writing and instruction
and examination of models of classroom and individual confer-
encing. Students will also tutor in the University Writing Center.
Prerequisite for undergraduates: Completion of LTWR 300A and 300B.
Additional enrollment requirement for undergraduates: Nine (9) additional
units of LTWR courses at the 300 or 400 level..
LTWR 545 (3)
Advanced Creative Writing
For students who wish to increase their skills in the writing
of fiction and poetry. The content of each semester will be
determined by the instructor and may include short stories,
poetry, novel, play or screenwriting. May be repeated for a total of
six (6) units of credit with new course content. Prerequisite for undergradu-
ates: LTWR 325.
LTWR 600 (3)
Research and Critical Methodology
Introduction to research methods and the critical and theoretical
approaches common to the graduate study of literature and
expository writing, with attention to basic reference works,
bibliographical techniques, analytical strategies, scholarly frames
of reference, and pedagogy. Recommended for the first semester of
graduate study.
LTWR 601 (3)
Literary Study in a Multicultural World
Relationship of literature to gender, race, class, and nationality.
Changing conceptions of literary canons. Exploration, through
literary texts, of values in literature and the constituents of
literary value.
LTWR 602 (3)
Composition Theories and Practices I
An introduction to current debates and crucial issues in rhetoric
and composition, with special attention to the relationships
between theories and practices of writing, between rhetoric
and culture, between ideology and pedagogy, and between
composition studies and other disciplines. Prepares students to
teach composition at the post-secondary level, such as in the
CSUSM GEW program. May be repeated for a total of twelve (12) units
of credit. Only six (6) units may be counted toward the masters degree.
Students who teach in GEW 101 or GEW 050 must register for LTWR 602
every time they teach. Enrollment Restriction: Students must be accepted
into the LTWR Masters program and obtain consent of instructor.
LTWR 605 (3)
Seminar in Thematic Studies
Study of a thematic motif over time or across cultures, for
example: alienation and exile, cultural taboo, colonial discourse,
or the representation of criminality. May also address studies
such as the nature of the hero and aspects of love or death.
May be repeated with new course content, but only six (6) units may be
applied toward the Masters degree.
LTWR 606 (3)
Seminar in Genre Studies
An examination of one or more genres, for example: satire,
utopian fiction, autobiography, travel narrative, landscape poetry,
the essay, or film. May be repeated with new course content, but only
six (6) units may be applied toward the Masters degree.
LTWR 607 (3)
Seminar in Comparative Studies
Comparison of theoretical and literary representations across
cultures (e.g., East/West studies), across modes of discourse
(e.g., oral/written), or across media (e.g., literature/art or litera-
ture/music). May be repeated with new course content, but only six (6)
units may be applied toward the Masters degree.
LTWR 608 (3)
Seminar in Critical and Theoretical Studies
Close study of one or several bodies of critical theory currently
applied to literary studies, i.e. psychoanalytic, feminist, Marxist,
new-historical, post-structuralist. Emphasis will be on termino-
logy, methods of readings, modes of interdisciplinary analysis
and interpretation, and recent debates on questions of theory,
history, and culture. May be repeated with new course content, but
only six (6) units may be applied toward the Masters degree.
page 412
2012-2014
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
LTWR 612 (3)
Seminar in Rhetorical Theories and Cultures
Close study of one or several bodies of rhetorical theory in
relation to cultures, for example: gender and rhetoric, adoles-
cence and rhetoric, black English and rhetoric, and popular
culture and rhetoric. May be repeated with new course content, but
only six (6) units may be applied toward the Masters degree.
LTWR 613 (3)
Seminar in Creative Writing
For students who wish to continue refining their skills in
poetry, short stories, novels, and/or screen writing. Content
to be decided by collaboration between the student and the
instructor. May be repeated with new course content, but only six (6)
units may be applied toward the Masters degree. Enrollment Requirement:
LTWR 325, 545, or equivalent experience in creative writing.
LTWR 615 (3)
Scholarly Publishing in Literature and Writing
Faculty-supervised training in literary and composition publishing.
Critical examination of academic journals with goal of submit-
ting work to journals. Possible work on academic journal.
May be repeated with new course content, but only six (6) units may be
applied toward the Masters degree. Prerequisites: LTWR 525. Enrollment
Requirement: One 600-level course. Enrollment restricted to students who
have obtained consent of instructor.
LTWR 690A (1) 690B (2) 690C (3) 690D (4) 690E (5)
690F (6)
Graduate Research
Faculty-supervised research. May be repeated, but no more than six
(6) units of credit may be applied toward the Masters degree. Graded
Credit/No Credit. Enrollment restricted to students who have obtained
consent of instructor.
LTWR 695A (1) 695B (2) 695C (3) 695D (4) 695E (5)
695F (6)
Internship
Supervised experience either teaching writing at the college level
or working in public agencies and private industries that provide
opportu nities to develop professional writing skills. Students who
want credit for working in CSUSMs Writing Center should enroll. Graded
Credit/No Credit. Only three (3) units may be applied toward the Masters
degree. Enrollment restricted to students who have obtained consent of
instructor.
LTWR 699 (3)
Graduate Thesis
Enrollment Requirement: Completion of twenty-four (24) units in the
graduate program prior to enrollment. Graded Credit/No Credit.
Enrollment restricted to students who have obtained consent of instructor.
LTWR 699X (1) 699Y (2) 699Z (3)
Thesis Extension
Registration in this course is limited to students who have
received a satisfactory grade in LTWR 699 and who expect to
use the facilities and resources of the University to work on or
complete the thesis. Students who have not completed their thesis
in LTWR 699 must register for LTWR 699X, 699Y, or 699Z. Graded
Credit/No Credit. May be repeated, but credit will not be applied toward
the Master of Arts in Literature and Writing Studies degree. Enrollment
Requirement: Prior registration in LTWR 699 with a satisfactory grade.
MASS MEDIA (MASS)
College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and
Social Sciences
MMP = Mass Media Production
MOS = Media Organizations and Systems
MUE = Media Uses and Effects
MASS 302 (3)
Media Production and Context
Introduction to the critical study of media representation and
digital video
production. Students learn critical media literacy aimed at
analyzing mainstream representations of Otherness while
exploring the concepts of voice, style and structure using
alternative productions that challenge dominant images.
Students make short media productions in which they turn the
critical lens on the Other-izers by occupying and interrogating
producer, subject and audience positions. Students explore
content around identity by creating analytical media memoirs
about aspects of their personal history. (MUE, MOS, MMP)
MASS 303 (3)
Mass Media and Technology
A critical and historical examination of 19th, 20th, and 21st
century analog and digital mass media/communication technolo-
gies. Introduces the role of media technology in human creative
activity and examines the contexts in which new technologies
come into use. Students will examine economic and political
issues that have (and do) influence the selection of some
technologies and standards over others. Students may have the
opportunity to create media projects applying course concepts.
[COMM 480B may be substituted for this course] (MMP, MOS, MUE)
MASS 304 (3)
Global Media
An exploration of globalization as an historical as well
as a contested process, and of cultural, social, techno-
logical economic political processes at work in mass media
globalization. Case studies link discussions of specific forms
(i.e., music, radio, video, journalism, internet/web cell phones,
broadcast satellites, and points of origin) to old and new
audiences. These case studies are contextualized in a consid-
eration of specific communication processes associated with
trade, war, community development, policy making and reform,
and privatization/deregulation. (MUE, MOS, MMP)
MASS 306 (3)
Media Distribution
Examines the distribution of media products, and focuses
on identifying and critiquing distribution patterns, structures,
practices, and the institutions that offer mediated experience.
Highlights two parallel trends in the context of technological
advances and convergences: consolidation of mass media
industries, and the simultaneous empowerment of indepen-
dent and guerilla distribution. Students will be able to examine
and work within a number of distributor models and strate-
gies including grassroots/community media, self-publishing, viral
marketing, festivals, trade shows, pod and web casting, and
learn about the communication processes used to create distri-
bution networks. (MUE, MOS, MPP)