Marquette students interested in studying in the nation’s capital have two upcoming short-course options available this May through the university’s Les Aspin Center in Washington, D.C.
The “May-mester” includes a two-week intensive, in-person experience at the Aspin Center from May 11–22, followed by two weeks of asynchronous online learning. During the two weeks in D.C., students will live in the Marquette student apartments, blocks from the Capitol. Students will earn three credits and gain hands-on exposure to national institutions, historical sites and public policy discussions.
Courses offered
POSC 4932 – Politics of the American Revolution (3 credits)
Taught by Sam Harshner, this course examines how political actors throughout U.S. history have invoked the memory and rhetoric of the American Revolution to advance political goals. Students will explore competing contemporary narratives, from the 1619 Project to the 1776 Commission, and consider how understandings of the Revolution shape political debate.
Coursework includes assigned readings, reflective writing connected to site visits and a final project analyzing the Revolution’s place in modern America. Planned site visits include Mount Vernon, The White House, Gettysburg and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.
This course fulfills an ESSV2 requirement in the Marquette Core Curriculum.
ENGL 4739 – Storytelling for Others (3 credits)
Students in this Narrative 4–based course taught by Dr. Leah Flack will learn to tell stories ethically and effectively — both their own and those of others. The course emphasizes listening skills, cross-media storytelling techniques and training as a Narrative 4 facilitator.
Students will be in Washington, D.C. from May 11–23 for an immersive schedule that includes discussions, site visits, panels and events. Additional coursework will be completed virtually by June 6.
This course meets ESSV2, HUM: Basic Needs & Justice, and Writing Intensive Core Curriculum requirements.
Registration
The registration deadline is Wednesday, April 15. To register, students should complete the interest form and email Dr. Paul Nolette, director of the Les Aspin Center.
No application to the full Aspin Washington, D.C. Internship Program is required; these are standalone courses. Students are encouraged to consult with their academic adviser when planning summer enrollment.
Learn more about Les Aspin Center short courses online.
