IDST

Introduction to Ethnic Studies

An introduction to concepts, theories, methodologies and social policy related to the history, culture, concerns, and conditions of the field of Ethnic Studies. Employs Critical Race Theory, Intersectionality, and Indigenous Methodologies to analyze and articulate cultural, political, and economic practices and institutions that support or challenge racism, racial and ethnic inequalities, and patterns of interaction between various racial and ethnic groups.

Poetry for the People

An interdisciplinary approach toward development of literacy in multiple popular traditions of poetry, including in social justice movements, by incarcerated people, and through alternative media. Includes scrutiny of published poems from multiple cultural traditions, a focus on community, and the cultivation and public presentation of new poems.

Demystifying the Middle East

This interdisciplinary survey of South West Asia and North Africa (the Middle East) introduces students to the historical, cultural, and religious diversity of the region, highlighting contributions in various disciplines, including science, art, music, and literature. It also examines U.S. involvement, representation, media, current political discourse and activism in the region and in diaspora.

Islam: Identity & Culture

An interdisciplinary survey of Muslim identity and the origins, principles, and practices of Islam, comparing and contrasting them with those of other major religions. Focus on the historical development and current practices of Islam and its impact on philosophy, art, music, architecture, gender, media, popular culture, and politics.

Human Sexuality

A human sexuality course that integrates content and methodology from the disciplines of biology, ethics, health education, history, jurisprudence, LGBTQI+. women and gender studies, psychology, and social justice. Covers the anatomical, physiological and psychological stages of development across the life span, including the role of gender, patterns of sexual arousal and response, and the paraphilias.

Introduction to the United Nations

An introduction to the United Nations, including the UN Charter's mission to achieve international peace, and the function of the organization's six administrative bodies. In addition to studying the theory and practice of international diplomacy, students evaluate the successes and challenges of collective security, peacekeeping attempts, and technological cooperation.

Ways of Faith

This interdisciplinary course introduces the scriptural, symbolic, and artistic traditions of the world's major faiths: Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The class also considers how knowledge of these religious systems can serve to advance world peace.

Introduction to Museum Studies

Museums display, collect, preserve, and interpret art, historical, and scientific objects. Exploration of museums from multiple perspectives: architecture, collections, exhibitions, and economic realities involved in museum sustainability. History of museums in the United States. Promotion of museums as a community resource with open access to everyone. Visits to local museums.