African and African American Studies

Prerequisite: Completion or waiver of MAT 010

Offered: Typically annually (next offered Fall 2008)

In America's last five centuries, the concept of race changed from a literary meaning about the race of humankind, toward popular folkways of seeing, describing, and categorizing individuals and groups based on pseudo-scientific explanations of physical and cultural traits associated with groups from various nations and regions. This course allows us to examine social patterns of these interracial and interethnic encounters and to analyze sociologically factors that help to maintain or change the domination or subordination established among the groups in our contemporary American society. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective.

1 Course

Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2009-2010)

How have African-American women writers coped with invisibility? How have they emerged from silence and created visions of identity and culture? This course will examine the writings of African-American women as a separate and distinct cultural group and the ways in which their writing is an expression of the culture and a historical record of its development. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor

Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms

Open to all Berea students, this ensemble specializes in the performance of African-American sacred music, particularly spirituals and gospel music. The ensemble meets twice weekly for one-and-one-half hours. Regular attendance is required at all rehearsals and performances including annual Fall and Spring concerts, as well as several other programs each term. Membership by permission of instructor after audition. May be repeated for credit. Course Fee: $15 (for transportation and robe cleaning).

1/4 Course

Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2008)

Representative selections from fiction, poetry, and nonfiction prose of African-American authors from slavery to the present. Focus on historical and social conditions reflected in the works and relationships between African-American literature and other American literary movements. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective and Arts Perspective.

1 Course

Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms (this year, offered Fall 2008 only, as an exception)

This course surveys the formation of African American cultural identity from the early National period to the present. This course will touch upon major formative events in African American history: slavery, the early formation of African American cultural institutions, the reconstruction of African American life after slavery, northern migration during the World Wars, the civil rights and black power movements of the 1950s and 1960s, and urbanization and class structure in the 1980s and 1990s. Western History Perspective and African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisites: Determined by instructor

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."

1/2 to 1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 210

Offered: Typically alternate Fall Terms (next offered Fall 2008)

A study of the participation of women and African Americans in the American political process. Theories of representative democracy and an introduction to the historical struggles for equal rights provide a context for the investigation of contemporary electoral politics, governance, grassroots politics, and public policy. Students examine the progress of women and African American candidates, and of related public policy issues, throughout the current election and its immediate aftermath. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. NOTE: In order to receive African and African American Studies or Women's Studies major or minor credit, the student's major project must focus on African Americans or women, respectively.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 210

Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2010)

This course is an exploration of voices of women in the Caribbean. We will read works by writers from the Anglo-Caribbean, French Caribbean, and Hispanic Caribbean. These writers represent the islands of Jamaica, Cuba, Guadalupe, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Barbados. Their works investigate issues of racial configuration, relationships between women, politics, colonialism and post-colonialism, and the creation of the island space. We will look at the long, turbulent history of the island of Hispaniola from the perspective of both the Haitian and Dominican, the complex history of each of these island nations, and other important topics. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective. NOTE: Noncredit for students who took this course as GSTR 209.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 110

Offered: Typically annually (next offered Spring 2009)

With an emphasis on the humanities and social sciences, this interdisciplinary course provides an opportunity for students to evaluate the historical contributions and contemporary status of African-Americans. Beginning with an historical overview, the course surveys the following topics: social institutions, creative productions, political economy and social class, personal identity and ethnicity, and contemporary status. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 210

Offered: Typically alternate years (first offered Spring 2009)

This course is an introduction to the study of Environmental Justice and issues associated with access to, and equitable sharing of, the products of a healthy environment, including clean water and air, healthy food, non-toxic communities, and environmental security. The history of the environmental justice movement beginning with its foundations in the Civil Rights and Environmental movements will be studied, followed by a survey and analysis of current issues of environmental justice, particularly in relation to minority and poor communities in the United States and worldwide. Emphasis is placed on the role of women and African Americans as participants in the environmental justice movement, and the analysis of environmental justice issues in Appalachia. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. NOTE: Noncredit for students who took SENS 460 in Fall 2005 or Fall 2006.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 110

Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2008)

This course explores the social, political, economic, and cultural experiences of African Americans in Southern Appalachia from the beginning of European settlement to the contemporary era. The course engages students in developing an understanding of the historical experiences of African Americans in Appalachia, the discussion of issues such as the images and stereotypes of Appalachians and African Americans, and the examination of migratory patterns, education, labor organization, and religion. The course places special emphasis upon the interaction and convergence of a distinctly Appalachian experience among African Americans from the region. The course studies traditional themes in Appalachian Studies within the context of African American racial experiences. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 110

Offered: Typically annually (next offered Spring 2009)

An introduction to religious traditions within the African American community. Presents overviews and analyses of these traditions from their African root to the present. Particular attention is given to the development of thought, ethics, and theology for survival, nurturing, and "meaning-making" that African American religious communities pass down from generation to generation. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 110

Offered: Typically every Spring Term

The study of African-American music and musicians within the general framework of American society, tracing the development of the music from its African origins to its impact upon and fusion with American music and culture. Although the main focus will be placed upon music indigenous to African-American culture, study will encompass significant African-American musicians in the European classical music tradition. Arts Perspective and African Americans', Appalachians', Women's Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 110

Offered: Typically annually (next offered Fall 2008)

A survey of African history from the ancient period to the late 20th century. Although the major concentration is upon "Sub-Saharan Africa" and the effects of the enslavement trade and colonialism, the course does provide a brief discussion of significant continent-wide highlights from the ancient and medieval periods. The history of Africa's independence movements and the post-independence era also are addressed. World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisite: GSTR 210

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

An art and cultural study of the sculptural and architectural traditions of the peoples of West and Central Africa. Arts Perspective and World Culture (Non-Western) component of the International Perspective.

1 Course

Prerequisites: Determined by instructor

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."

1/2 to 1 Course

Prerequisites: HIS 161 and 162; or AFR/HIS 165

Offered: Typically annually (next offered Spring 2009)

Through examination of a key period in African American history, students will develop a deeper appreciation of this history and a better understanding of sources and methodologies historians use to analyze past human experiences. By reading key primary and secondary materials, students will develop an understanding of the way cultural, social, economic, and political issues interact to shape the period. May be repeated for credit, provided the topic differs from that previously studied. NOTE: Certain sections of this course may be approved to meet Perspective Areas in the General Education Program. Check the Schedule of Courses for term-specific information.

1 Course

Prerequisites: Determined by instructor

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."

1/2 to 1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 390/490A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 390/490B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 390/490A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 390/490B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing

Offered: Typically every term

An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to three course credits in one 14-week term or one course credit in Short Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. This course may be used to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.

1 to 3 Courses

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by two or more students who have a similar interest in the topic proposed. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 397/497A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 397/497B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by two or more students who have a similar interest in the topic proposed. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 397/497A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 397/497B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor

Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.

1 Course

Prerequisites: Determined by instructor

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."

1/2 to 1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 390/490A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 390/490B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 390/490A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 390/490B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing

Offered: Typically every term

An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to three course credits in one 14-week term or one course credit in Short Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. This course may be used to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.

1 to 3 Courses

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by two or more students who have a similar interest in the topic proposed. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 397/497A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 397/497B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497

Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course initiated, directed, and organized by two or more students who have a similar interest in the topic proposed. All such courses are to be supported by a faculty sponsor, second reader, academic adviser, Program Director, and possibly others. Course proposals must meet the approval of the Coordinator of Advising (the Academic Program Council liaison). Will be registered by the Office of Academic Services as 397/497A if approved to meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) or as 397/497B if approved as non-ALE.

1 Course

Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor

Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow

A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.

1 Course