UC: Spice up your spring courses next semester

Upcoming A&S classes cover Afrofuturism, Harry Potter, German folklore, more

If you're a current University of Cincinnati student, spring semester may feel a long time off. But as you forge ahead through fall semester, toward finals and the holiday break, keep in mind that open enrollment season for spring is right around the corner.

UC students can enroll in spring semester courses beginning on Nov. 25. 

Why not grab a spot in one or more of these classes offered through the UC College of Arts and Sciences? Here's a sampling of the unique courses that can help you fill a few extra credit hours, while having fun in a memorable class.

See ones you like? Don't wait--these courses fill up fast!

Afrofuturism: Black to the Future and Dark Matters

Afrofuturism, a movement in art and media, focuses on looking at futuristic storytelling through the lens of Black history and culture. It shares magical stories of future worlds or alternate universes, while examining the historic conflicts and perspectives of the Black experience. In this course, you'll take a closer look at the iconic works of Afrofuturism, such as "The Comet" by W.E.B. DuBois. In Catalyst, look for AFST 2023.

The Meaning of Life  

Ready to tackle the Big One? This unique philosophy course guides students to take on the major question that touches us all: what is the meaning of life? Students are encouraged to think about what adds value to life, as well as how the concepts and theories discussed in class pertain to their own lives. In Catalyst, look for PHIL 1044.

The Magic of Harry Potter  

Get ready to have a new look at the wizarding world of you-know-who. This course takes a deep dive into all seven of the Harry Potter novels. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a Hogwarts newbie, this class will give you a better understanding of J. K. Rowling’s magical world--from its complex characters and world-building to its problems and prejudices. In Catalyst, look for ENG 2003.

Human Sexuality

Take a deep look at the many facets of sexuality as it impacts our culture, our experiences and the lives of students. The coursework aims to challenge what students already believe about sex and introduce new concepts and disciplines to consider. Act quickly to enroll in this course; it tends to fill up fast. In Catalyst, look for PSYCH 2010.

German Folklore 1: Fairy Tales  

Settle in for great stories that began back in the day, and still resonate today. This course analyzes classic Grimm brothers' stories like "Snow White," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Hansel and Gretel," to investigate dimensions of gender, class, race, and sexuality included in the texts before they became the kid-friendly versions they are today. Students will also read the older tales that inspired the macabre stories written by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm. In Catalyst, look for GRMN 2041.

Modern Jewish Thinkers

A&S welcomes internationally recognized scholar Arna Poupko Fisher to discuss contemporary issues in Judaism--living a value-driven life, when it's proper to stand up for one's beliefs, and more. Fisher combines a rich understanding of Jewish texts, history and tradition with her personal experience as a female Jewish leader. A graduate of Yeshiva University, she continued her graduate work at the University of Toronto and McGill University, and is a widely reknowned educator who has lectured in 140 communities throughout North America. In Catalyst, look for JUDC/RELG/PHIL 2061.

Featured image at top: Student searching on laptop. Photo/Dylan Gillis for Unsplash

Headshot of By Pieper Buckley

By Pieper Buckley

Student Journalist , College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Marketing and Communication

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