Educational Planning for Labor Studies ((5 Credits))

Catalog description

The purpose of Educational Planning for Labor Studies is for each student to design and complete a degree program that will 1) fulfill the College’s degree requirements, and, 2) allow the choosing of degree-related courses of interest. Students have the option of choosing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in labor studies or enroll in the 20-credit program. Students will develop their educational plans in the context of investigating trade unions as collective organizations, fundamental to a democratic society. The course asks students to consider and discuss the challenges working people and union members face in today’s economy and the role of the critical/intellectual "skills" that one acquires through a liberal arts based college education in meeting these challenges. Within this context, the course asks students to read critically, conduct research, and present persuasive written and oral arguments about the purpose and role of a college education - particularly for working people and union members. This course is offered as part of union partnership programs and is open to non-partnership students subject to availability. It is also only offered in-class at the college’s Harry J. Van Arsdale Jr. School for Labor Studies in New York City.