Why Study Hindi-Urdu? | World Languages & Literatures

Q: Can I fulfill the CAS language requirement with Hindi-Urdu?

Yes! CAS is committed to offer at least first- through fourth-semester Hindi-Urdu every year – and more advanced course offerings are at the ready as soon as enough students complete second year.

Q: It doesn’t look like there are advanced courses on the course schedule. I hope to reach advanced proficiency eventually – can this program accommodate me?

Yes. Hindi-Urdu is brand new at BU. As soon as we have enough students complete the second year who want to continue with third-year classes or classes in film and contemporary culture, we’re eager to offer those courses. Faculty may be able to work on individual projects with advanced students in the meantime.

Q: I have some limited proficiency in Hindi or Urdu already. Are the courses appropriate for me?

Almost certainly yes. You should approach one of the current instructors for an evaluation of your proficiency and placement in the appropriate class for your level.

Q: I know absolutely zero Hindi-Urdu and am afraid the course will be for students who already know some. Is that true?

No. Many or most of the students in LN 111, First-Semester Hindi-Urdu, know exactly as much Hindi-Urdu as they know Zulu (and trust us, they don’t know a single word of Zulu).

Q: So can you describe the students who take Hindi-Urdu at BU?

Hindi-Urdu students come from a diverse array of backgrounds and come to the study of Hindi-Urdu with different objectives. At present there is a balanced mix of students with no prior connection at all to the cultures of the Indian subcontinent and those with a family background in South Asia. The teaching staff caters for the needs of everyone, and ensures that no one’s motivation or reasons for studying are neglected. Some students intend to travel and work in South Asia, some need these languages for their research, some wish to connect with South Asian cultures; others are motivated by a strong desire to work with media and films in particular, or the history and political traditions of South Asia. Every student’s needs and motivation are taken into account in the class, and the instruction ensures that there is an inclusive environment where the individual’s requirements are given appropriate consideration.

Q: Can I major or minor in Hindi-Urdu at BU?

This is not yet an option, but as increasing numbers of students begin to take the language and related courses in other departments a minor may be developed.

Q: Where can I study abroad?

At present BU does not have a study-abroad program in India, but several initiatives are afoot that could lead to such a program being established in due time. In the meantime, with a bit of advance preparation it is not hard to transfer credits earned on accredited programs run by other universities. See Mr. David Lamitie in the Study Abroad office to learn about the options.

Q: Whom should I ask if I have further questions?

Questions about the language program can be directed to any of the current Hindi-Urdu teachers or to Professor Sunil Sharma in WLL.