Courses

Through a series of thematically-arranged secondary and primary source readings and research writing assignments, students in this seminar course will explore the public health, medical, political, and social histories of HIV and AIDS in Black American communities. The course’s chronological focus begins roughly two decades before the first recognition of the syndrome to the first decade of the twenty-first century. Thematically, the course will address several issues, including syndemic theory; stigma, homophobia and political marginalization; late capitalism and public health; the health effects of segregation; and mass incarceration.

Admission to this course is by application: https://forms.gle/aomWYHiqHaGyumBn9.  Please note that students enrolling in this course must do so for a grade, and not on a pass/fail or audit basis.

GUIDELINES & REQUIREMENTS

Undergraduate and masters students are welcome in this course by application. Due to the higher level of course material, students should have an academic or professional background in African-American history or public health history.

• Students may not enroll this course on a pass/fail basis or as an auditor.
• Please consult the “Class Performance Guidelines” document for details.
• Student assessment will be based on various criteria:
  • Class discussion participation 35%
  • Presentation of the readings 15%
  • Writing assignments 50%

Policy on Academic Integrity

Please note that all students are bound to the guidelines set forth in the College’s statement on Academic Integrity (http://www.college.columbia.edu/academics/academicintegrity)