Wayne State University introduces 24 courses to boost academic offerings

This fall, Wayne State University introduced 24 courses to enhance its academic offerings and equip students with advanced skills across diverse disciplines. These additions highlight the university's commitment to preparing career-ready professionals for a rapidly changing and connected world.

The expanded curriculum includes courses in health sciences, liberal arts and sciences, law, and business. By offering a broad range of courses, Wayne State provides students access to explore multiple areas and achieve a well-rounded education.

Here are a few examples of the new classes:

Introduction to Applied Health Sciences: Building future health care leaders

Introduction to Applied Health Sciences (AHS 2010) is a new course in the Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. This in-person class of 35 students meets once a week to foster a collaborative learning environment. It focuses on essential skills like teamwork, effective communication, legal and ethical responsibilities, cultural competency, problem-solving, decision-making, and self-management.

"The main goal of the program is to let students explore various health professions while developing the knowledge to apply and work in health science fields," said Applied Health Sciences Program Director Rachael German. "This course lays the foundation and guides students toward focused pathways to achieve their educational goals."

AI & Data Ethics: Navigating the moral implications of technology

In the Department of Philosophy of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the AI & Data Ethics course (PHI 1150) explores the ethical issues surrounding artificial intelligence and data collection. This online class allows students to engage with self-paced recorded lectures. Topics include AI rights, algorithmic bias, data privacy and AI in warfare. Students analyze AI's impact on jobs, the environment, social media privacy and injustices from biased algorithms, fostering critical thinking about technology's role in society.

Access to Justice: Bridging legal gaps

The Access to Justice course (LEX 5110) in the Law School explores the complexities of the U.S. civil legal system, focusing on the challenges low-income individuals face in accessing legal services and the role of legal aid attorneys. This semester, the class is examining the barriers Detroit residents encounter when approaching the Board of Zoning Appeals, particularly the requirement to prove standing, which prevents their appeals from being heard and adversely affects their quality of life. By attending a Board of Zoning Appeals hearing, students gain valuable insights into these critical challenges.

"Students are able to experience the practical side of law," said Rebecca Robichaud, assistant clinical professor of law and director of experiential education and pro bono initiatives. "As a College to Career readiness initiative, it is helping students prepare for the next stage of their journey."

Real Estate Investment: Mastering a key economic sector

Within the Mike Ilitch School of Business, the Real Estate Investment course (FIN 5400) offers students an in-depth look into the expansive field of real estate. Covering various property types, including residential, commercial, industrial and multi-family units, the course provides an understanding of real estate as a significant asset class in the U.S. economy.

Wayne State University's commitment to evolving its course offerings ensures that students receive an up-to-date, well-rounded education that prepares them to excel in their chosen fields and adapt to future challenges.