English Language and Literature in India

This course is now accepting applications for the Winter 2013 term.

UMAIE Course Number:  T3907
SAU Course Equivalency:  +IS 210, Topics in International Studies (four credits)
Instructors:  Dr. Jill Jepson and Dr. Joanne Cavallaro, Department of English, St. Catherine University, Minnesota  
Prerequisites:  None
Tentative Dates:  January 2 -25, 2013. SAU Spring semester begins January 16.
Location: India (Delhi, Agra, Gurgaon, Sonipat, Jaipur)
Price:  $4,520-$4,820 (tentative)

Program description

This course examines the multiple roles English plays in modern Indian life - as a language for great literature, as a tool of empowerment (e.g., for dalits ("untouchables") in their fight for equality), as a "goddess," as a "killer" of lesser known languages, as a unifying force, as a force for social oppression and social empowerment and technological change. It will explore colonial and post-colonial factors in the internationalization of English, new English literature, and the social, cultural, and political issues surrounding the spread of English. Through readings, guest lectures and site visits, we will examine the connection of gender, social class, education, and employment to the use or non-use of the English language in literature and daily life as we delve into the many social justice issues related to the spread of English in India. We will meet with college students in Delhi, attend the New Delhi play festival and the Jaipur Literary Festival, and of course take some time to see some of the wonders of the world (the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort, e.g).

This course welcomes students who have a sense of adventure and enjoy the challenge of meeting people in new places. It is meant for students with a variety of interests; those interested in the English literature, especially post-colonial literature; in linguistics; in international relations, business or development; in global education; or anyone who wants to work with multicultural populations at home or abroad will benefit from it. It will involve walking on crowded urban streets and unpaved rural ones. Special dietary needs may not be possible to meet in rural India; please contact one of the instructors with questions. Satisfies core literature requirement.

What is included

• Round-trip airfare from Moline, Chicago or Minneapolis
• Airport transfers
• Visas (if applicable)
• Transportation to most course activities while abroad
• Lodging
• Continental breakfast daily (exceptions may apply)
• Other meals (as indicated on course syllabus)
• Entrance fees for required course activities
• Planned excursions
• Administrative costs
• International health insurance
• When rail passes or entrance fees are included, they are based on the utilization of youth rates (25 years or younger) and a valid university ID will be required to be shown at the entrance. Any additional amount incurred will be the participant's responsibility

What is not included

• Passport fees
• Transportation to/from airport
• Fees for textbooks and materials
• Meals (when not included in program fees)
• Personal baggage fees

How to apply

Priority Deadline: April 13, 2012
Complete the online study abroad application and submit a $500 application deposit to the Center for International Education (300 Ambrose Hall).

Applications will be accepted until October 1.
Students that apply after the April 13 Priority Deadline may find that their desired program is full.

• Follow the application instructions carefully.
• Applications will not be reviewed until all application materials have been received.
• Make checks payable to Seminars International.
• The $500 application deposit is deducted from the total program cost.
• If you are not accepted into the program, or if the program is cancelled, the application deposit is refundable.
• If you are accepted, the application deposit is non-refundable after September 17.

Payment deadlines

• November 5, 2012:  remaining balance due

Payment details

• Failure to meet payment deadlines may jeopardize your place in the program.
• Please submit your final payment to Student Account Services by November 5.
• The final payment is non-refundable after November 5.