Austin College January Term Offers Variety and Unique Opportunities
SHERMAN, TEXAS — Austin College’s January Term (JanTerm) lasts just 22 days – from January 2 until January 24. In that short period of time, students have opportunities for life-changing experiences through unique courses not available during the regular spring and fall semesters.
Condensed courses are offered on focused topics such as molecular gastronomy, the history of civil rights in Texoma, prohibition’s effects on today’s craft brewing industry, moviemaking, and even the history and influence of genies. Students looking to explore further from home can travel internationally to study subjects such as healthcare in Ghana, café culture in Vienna and Paris, or the Italian and Spanish influences on Argentina, among others.
Dr. Bob Cape, JanTerm Director, said, “January Term is a period between the long semesters for students to focus intensely on a single course. JanTerm is not exclusive to Austin College, but it is a distinctive feature of liberal arts education because students are encouraged to explore in-depth topics outside of their major/minor areas.” Courses emphasize learning through discovery, experience, travel, hands-on practice, creation, and challenging oneself, he said. “Students can explore subjects they may (or may not) have heard about, but never had the opportunity to investigate.”
The Austin College campus will return to its full in-session population when Spring 2024 term begins January 30.
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, pre-professional foundations, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 44 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with more than 50 percent of students identifying as persons of color. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and an expert faculty of more than 100 educators allow a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. Related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA), Austin College cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. The College, founded in 1849, is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.