Free college-level humanities courses being offered
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's 2014-15 Humanities for Everybody program is offering low- to moderate-income residents in the Kalamazoo area free classes in political philosophy, ethics, the sociology of medicine, and gender and women's studies.
The first class for this academic year began Tuesday, Sept. 9, but applications are being accepted on a continuous basis. Students selected for the program will receive free books, tuition and supplies. Anyone older than age 18 may participate, but they must be prepared to read, reflect, discuss, write and think critically.
Humanities for Everybody, or H4E for short, offers noncredit, college-level courses taught by experienced WMU professors, giving local nontraditional students access to rigorous university-level education in the humanities.
Schedule of 2014-15 classes
Classes are presented in a dynamic and fun discussion-style format during 10-week fall and spring semesters. They will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Cooper Apartments, 611 W. Lovell St. in Kalamazoo.
Both the fall and spring semesters will be divided into two, five-week classes called modules:
- Module 1, Introduction to Political Philosophy, Sept. 9 through Oct. 9.
- Module 2, Ethics and the Good Life, Oct. 21 through Nov. 20.
- Module 3, Medicine, Bodies and Power, Jan. 27 through Feb. 26.
- Module 4: Introduction to Gender and Women's Studies, March 17 through April 16.
Benefits for participants
In addition to receiving rigorous college-level instruction, H4E students form a community of learners who develop a framework for examining themselves and the world around them, as well as a way to engage in meaningful and respectful dialogue with individuals who have different perspectives.
Other participant benefits include:
- Assistance with study skills, reading, writing, critical thinking and application preparation, such as might be needed to pursue a GED or college entry or obtain financial aid or scholarships.
- Increased knowledge of public institutions of learning, such as community centers, libraries and museums.
- Referrals to community support resources.
- Cultivation of a peer community and support network.
- Letters of recommendation for graduates based on class performance.
- Recognition for program graduates during a public graduation ceremony.
More information
To apply to Humanities for Everybody or obtain a course brochure, visit humanitiesforeverybody.org, email Humanities4Everybody@gmail.com, or contact Randall Janes at (269) 387-1811 or Rondel Yarbrough at (269) 364-0296.
The program, which graduated its first class of students in 2012, is sponsored by the University Center for Humanities of WMU, Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services, Open Doors Kalamazoo, and the John E. Fetzer Institute Grant of the Kalamazoo Community Foundation.