Course Finder

This class includes a theme-based facilitated group walking practice with warm up, stretch, and cool down. Emeritus students will experience walking as a simple way to boost activity levels while improving overall health and well-being while being out in nature. All fitness levels welcome, but class is geared towards beginners. Students are encouraged to keep a journal/log of their progress.

This course helps older adults of all fitness levels maintain or improve their physical health, muscle strength, coordination, and light cardiovascular conditioning by walking, engaging in strengthening and stretching exercises, and/or using modified Pilates techniques.

This course helps older adults maintain or improve their physical health, muscle strength, coordination, and cardiovascular conditioning by engaging in low-impact aerobic exercises, some strength training, floor exercises, and stretch movements. Older adults will also increase their range of motion and flexibility with a variety of stretches to fun and lively music.

This course helps older adults maintain and build their strength by exercising and dancing to musical rhythms. The course also provides a supportive space for socialization with other older adults.

This course provides older adults who reside in a communal housing site with an enjoyable, safe exercise program. Older adults learn to maintain or improve their physical health through mild exercise, movement games, modified dances involving music, and rhythmic instruments and props.

This course introduces Emeritus students to a variety of meditation techniques from different traditions, including mindfulness and gentle breath centered movement. It will provide an overview of the neuroscience supporting the benefits of individual meditation techniques including reduced stress, better sleep, improved focus, and a sense of well-being and other issues. The course will also address common obstacles to meditation as well as approaches to overcoming these obstacles. This course is designed for beginners and is also suitable for those with experience who want to refine their practice. Classes consist of a combination of lecture, practice, and discussion.

This course is designed to enhance the health and safety of older adults through use of the principles and techniques of Chi Gong. Based on Chinese philosophy and healing concepts, the course will include the history, theory and practice of Chi Gong, including both the Wu School and Yang Style. Included are such Chinese philosophies as Yin and Yang, the Eight Directions, and Five Element theory and their applications to healthy living. Students work at their own level to improve tone, strength, flexibility and balance. Lectures, films, texts and discussions will explore the theory and practice of this traditional Chinese method for health and healing. Students will analyze which strategies best meet their needs, and create an individual health plan integrating Chi Gong techniques into their daily lives.

Physical Fitness Level 1 is designed for Emeritus students. The course will introduce you to the basics of strength training and low-intensity aerobics: endurance, flexibility, posture, balance, aerobic activity, and overall physical function. Methods for warming up, stretching, low-impact aerobic activity, cooling down, strength training, and balance are included.

Formerly HEALTH E25.

This course introduces Emeritus students to strength & stamina training, basic principles, benefits, & safety considerations. It will explore how to maintain or improve health & stamina through the use of resistance bands, hand weights, stretching and flexibility with standing and floor exercises.

This course is designed to help students avoid falls, which are the most frequent cause of serious injury in older adults. The course focuses on how, when and where falls frequently occur; how to maintain mobility, and how to improve and recover one’s balance. Students will create an individualized activity program to improve balance, endurance, strength and flexibility.

This course assists older adults in understanding the major functions of parts of their bodies, preventative measures, as well as how aging can impact their lifestyle.

This course assists older adults in understanding the functions and elements of the human body, including what can go wrong, current treatment options, and consumer information on alternative treatments. Older adult students learn about a variety of conditions that affect their population, including those that vary by lifestyle and/or genetic background.

This course helps Emeritus students with chronic joint pain or mobility problems to attain and maintain physical strength, mobility, and flexibility. Students will learn about the function of joints in the human body and techniques to move effectively without joint stress. Students will create an individual plan for mobility and physical fitness.

This course is designed to improve the flexibility and mobility of older adults, increase their activity levels, and lessen their joint pain through exercise. Older adult students focus on maintaining strength, stability, mobility, balance, and flexibility in order to improve their physical and mental well being through safe and therapeutic core strengthening and balance techniques, deep muscle and/or moving stretches, and weight-bearing exercises using balls, blocks, weights, dynabands, and/or straps. Some sections of this course involve moving the body and performing joint exercises to fun and lively music.

Formerly HEALTH E23.

Introduces the study and practice of T’ai Chi and Qigong at a beginner level. An internal martial art designed to increase physical and mental strength by incorporating energy circulation, breathing, and mindfulness. This class focuses on stances, footwork, and whole body movement sequences at a beginner level that improve agility, postural alignment, balance, and relaxation to rejuvenate the body, reduce stress, and improve health.

Introduces the study and practice of T’ai Chi and Qigong, a traditional Chinese exercise system designed to increase physical and mental strength by combining martial arts movements with energy circulation, breathing, mindfulness, and stretching exercises at an intermediate/advanced level. Regular practice of T’ai Chi produces multiple health benefits. This course focuses on stances, footwork, and whole body movement sequences that improve agility, postural alignment, balance, and relaxation to rejuvenate the body, reduce stress, and improve health.

This course teaches older adults Iyengar yoga techniques that can be used to maintain or increase their respiratory capacity, physical strength, balance, and flexibility. Older adults will relax their bodies and minds through the practice of Iyengar yoga and meditation.

This course helps older adults increase their strength, flexibility, balance, and circulation by encouraging older adults to concentrate or focus intently on their physical self, thus blocking out the factors that detract from a sense of wellbeing.

Formerly HEALTH E18.

Chair Yoga is a practice for developing balance and stability while improving strength and flexibility. Chair Yoga is geared for those who might be experiencing limited mobility due to illness, injury or disease, chronic pain, joint inflammation; or difficulty standing for long periods of time. Classes will include proper posture, breathing, relaxation and meditation that is made accessible for all students.

Formerly HEALTH E34. This course is intended for beginning level students or who prefer floor-based mat work at a slower, gentler pace.

This beginning level, gentle Yoga Class offers a range of strategies and techniques to learn foundational practices with the intention of reducing and managing stress. Emeritus students will experience basic movement and postures, gratitude practices, breathing exercises, meditation, lifestyle practices and humor. The course also helps students establish peer support groups to help integrate and maintain these Yoga practices and skills.

Formerly HEALTH E21. This course is for students with prior Yoga experience.

This intermediate/advanced level Yoga Class enhances the fitness and wellness of experienced Emeritus students. Students will learn more challenging standing and balancing postures and flowing sequences. The class will also dive deeper into Yoga history, principles, and practices such as breathing, meditation, relaxation, and visualization. Students will learn how to safely take their practice to the next level in a supportive community environment.

This course helps older adults engage in Tai Chi Chuan exercises to maintain or increase their balance, strength, and flexibility. Exercises are modified to take the special conditions of individual older students into account.

This course helps older adults who have experienced an acquired brain injury to maintain or improve their mobility and physical endurance through an individualized program offered in a group setting. Topics include how to cope with the effects of brain injury or stroke and how to restore the student’s natural energy and flexibility, through techniques used to regain and maintain physical fitness. Participation in this Pathfinders Program allows older adults to be included in their community and maintain their independence, and helps them to self-advocate and engage in activities that benefit their health. Registration is completed through the SMC Disabled Students Program & Services (DSPS) 310-434-4442.

This course assists older adults with joint difficulties and other chronic conditions by helping them engage in a zero-impact exercise in water. Older adults learn routines that use the resistance of water to build strength and stamina.

This course helps older adults maintain or improve their physical health, weight, muscle strength, coordination, and cardiovascular conditioning through low-impact aerobic exercises as well as some strength training and stretch movements.

This course assists older adults in improving their health and cardiovascular performance through low-impact aerobic exercises, some strength training, and stretch movements that increase their range of motion and flexibility and improve their overall sense of wellness.

This course helps older adults in long-term care facilities maintain as high a level of mobility and fitness as possible, and to preserve as much independence as possible.

This course helps older adults build and maintain their strength and socialize with others who have similar goals. Older adults who have not recently engaged in an exercise routine burn calories, build muscle and stamina through exercise routines, and increase strength by using light weights and engaging in resistance techniques. Older adult students may begin with light weights and increase the weights as they build muscle, strengthen bones, and increase stamina.

Build your stamina and flexibility at your own pace in this course, especially designed for older adults. Students must attend at least 80% of the sessions. There is a separate section for intermediate students.

This course is designed to introduce Emeritus students to the beginning Pilates matwork technique of exercise, starting with 30 basic exercises. Pilates is a unique method of body control and conditioning. It consists of stretching and strengthening the muscles, while improving flexibility and balance.

This course teaches older adults about household tools, how to make minor or more complex home repairs or maintenance, and how to evaluate proposed repair processes when hiring and paying a repair person. Older adults learn to repair leaky faucets, fix minor electrical problems, hang almost everything, caulk a bathtub, and so forth. The course is intended to help older adults be knowledgeable, confident, and prudent about home repairs and maintenance.

This course helps older adults learn sewing-based skills, including how to construct clothing, engage in creative sewing projects, use patterns, engage in patchwork or machine quilting, and/or other specialized sewing techniques. Older adults learn economical sewing techniques and socialize with their peers in a supportive and creative environment.

This course helps older adults learn about the resources consumers can use to make the best choices about goods and services and provides a space to discuss these resources with their peers. The course covers several topics of interest to older adult consumers, including insurance; older adult services, products, and health issues; and entitlement programs.

This course assists older adults in making nutritional changes that enhance their quality of life and allow them to maintain a high level of independence. Older adults will learn about food fads, as well as factual information about food additives, mixing herbs and medications, and basic nutritional information. The course provides older adults with a sense of how nutrition can enhance their lifestyles, improve their health, and ease physical changes.

This course helps older adults learn how to prepare healthy foods for a small household and how to make cost-effective choices in planning a menu. Older adults work together to create a cookbook or recipe book, share food and recipes with their peers, learn restaurant terms, learn to write a standard recipe, and discuss and write about memories involving food. The course also engages older adults in discussions about food fads and provides factual information on food additives, vitamins, safe food storage, health precautions, and basic nutritional information.

This course explores American history through different cultural lenses using food and cooking. We will examine the cultural and culinary contributions of different ethnic groups to American cuisine and how they have influenced and shaped American History and the food we eat today. Recipes that relate to different historical periods will be put in context for a deeper understanding of the human experience though food.

This course provides a supportive, stimulating, and creative learning environment to allow older adults to create inexpensive knitting projects. Older adults learn and practice knitting and crocheting techniques, including the selection of materials, planning projects, and finishing methods.

This course provides a supportive learning environment for older adults to learn needlecrafts and create inexpensive and handmade garments or projects for personal or charitable use. Beginning and intermediate students will learn about the materials and stitches needed to complete simple and complex needlepoint projects, including embroidery, hand, and crewel work.

This course provides a supportive and creative learning environment for older adults to create inexpensive, handmade needlework projects. Older adults will learn knitting and crocheting techniques, as well as cabling and blocking.

This course serves as an orientation to the Emeritus Program of Santa Monica College for students to take in their first term of enrollment in Emeritus. This class will teach students the policies and procedures of Emeritus and introduce students to new peers.

This course assists older adults in finding valuable and significant volunteer opportunities in their community. The course also emphasizes ways that older adults can become successful volunteers and how they can make the most of a volunteer association, and provides general information about local volunteer agencies. Older adults can socialize with peers who are also interested in volunteering, and may receive some skills training as part of their preparation for a volunteer activity.

This course helps older adults review and discuss their life with peers in order to understand the past more fully, give new meaning to their present life, and validate the lives of older adults through shared experiences. Older adults will discuss major life events, achieve greater insight into their personal history, and share their experiences and thoughts with others.

This course familiarizes older adults with the aging process, including physiological, psychological, and sociological aspects. Older adults become more comfortable with changes in themselves and others over time, and learn to celebrate the benefits of a longer life. Older adults also learn new coping strategies and explore issues facing adults of all ages, including conflicts, stereotypes, age bias, loss, and change.

This course helps older adult Latino/Hispanic immigrants become an integral part of their community. Older adults learn about differences and similarities in the behaviors, processes, and practices in the culture in which they were raised and segments of the surrounding American culture. Older adults also learn about entitlements and social services for seniors, and interact with other older adult immigrants.

This course helps older adults learn effective coping skills to use in a variety of situations that occur in later years, including dealing with health practitioners during health crises, working with different generations during health crises, working with service providers such as repairmen or business representatives, and ensuring equal status as people in other age groups. Older adults learn to communicate their wishes clearly, insist on their right to say “no,” help their peers and others understand their needs, and consider other peoples’ needs and desires.

This course assists older adults in evaluating their lives and starting a positive life review process. Older adults will look back at their accomplishments, failures, and satisfying life experiences, and will share these memories with their peers in a constructive and supportive atmosphere.

This course helps older adults in the resolution of grief and toward a more positive view or reaction to the death of a loved one. The course provides older adults with a variety of alternative methods of dealing with loss in a small group setting. Older adults share their grief with others, receive encouragement and moral support, and learn about the natural grieving process, as well as how to heal and rebuild their lives.

This course helps older adults with hearing impairments improve their communication skills and adaptive techniques and increase their levels of sociability and self-confidence. Older adults learn the study of speech, lip reading, body language, and auditory clues.

This course assists Emeritus students in minimizing anxiety when memory behavior patterns change and helps build confidence as they age. This class is designed to stimulate thinking and to exercise the brain. Students practice skills to enhance memory retention and retrieval by using lessons that require long and short term memory, memory recall and association. This class is completely interactive with every student participating, which also assists with helping students learn to stay focused. This class is not intended for anyone with Alzheimer’s or any type of dementia.

This course helps older adults with aphasia reconstruct their language comprehension and communication skills and gain greater self-confidence in their ability to understand and communicate with others. The course introduces adults with aphasia to a computer software program that can help them improve their language and reading comprehension, memory, verbal reasoning skills, and attention span. The course, which is part of the Pathfinders Program, allows older adults to experiment with language comprehension software before purchasing it for use at home. Registration is completed through the SMC Center for Students with Disabilities, 310-434-4442.

This course, which is part of the Pathfinders Program, increases, enhances, and maintains the daily speech function of adults who have experienced speech impairments due to acquired brain injury. Older adults learn to cope with the effects of stroke or other brain injury on communication skills, get support from those in similar situations, and guidance from professionals after outpatient therapy is completed. Registration is completed through the SMC Center for Students with Disabilities, 310-434-4442.

This course helps older adults who have sustained an acquired brain injury maintain or improve their functional cognition through individualized feedback offered in a group setting. Emphasis will be placed on maintenance of skills such as memory, verbal reasoning, and attention span. Participation in this class allows adults to develop compensatory techniques so that they can maintain their independence and safely participate in home and community tasks that promote self-reliance and active decision making.

This course teaches and instills in older adults communication techniques and skills designed to improve their interactions with family members, friends, and service providers, including adult children, grandchildren, landlords, health professionals, and other significant individuals. Older adults practice new communication techniques and deepen their understanding of themselves, their peers, and other significant people in their lives.

This course helps Latino/Hispanic older adults learn more about the school system in California, how their grandchildren fit into the school system, and ways in which they may help their grandchildren be successful in and out of school. Older adults learn grandparenting skills, with an emphasis on building self-esteem and setting goals. Latino/Hispanic older adults also learn about the developmental stages through which young adult and elementary school children are passing. This course is taught in Spanish in cooperation with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District.

This course assists older adults in coping with the death of a close relative or family member; the loss of mobility or deterioration of their physical condition; or the loss of their job or financial status due to a significant change in their life. Older adults share their emotions about life-changing events with their peers and develop coping strategies that help them deal with life transitions in a more comfortable manner.

This course assists older adults who are facing a change in their lifestyle because they are now single. Older adults explore topics such as dealing with isolation, ageism, depression, eating patterns, and social interactions. The course assists older adults in making the necessary transitions and adjustments to live a happy and successful life as an older single person.

This course helps older adult students understand areas of law that affect older adults. Older adults learn how the American justice system works and how to use the system or its alternatives when conflicts arise. Specific topics vary from semester to semester and may include: information on dealing with health professionals, landlords, or sales representatives; information about small claims court, mediation, negotiation, arbitration, and/or other methods of resolving conflicts; basic estate planning; wills and trusts; tax law; powers of attorney; elder abuse; and advanced care directives.

This course helps older adults explore a variety of Spanish literature in the language in which it was written and stimulates their appreciation of the vast literary output of Spain, Latin America, and other Spanish speaking countries. Students may also explore the history and culture of the country in which a literary work was produced, and participate in class discussions in Spanish.

This course helps older adults understand and appreciate the vast literary output of France and other French speaking countries, and introduces them to French culture and people. Older adults explore a variety of French literature in the language in which it was written and engage in stimulating discussions with their peers.

This course helps older adults experience and appreciate the vast literary output from non-English speaking countries and discuss that literature with peers in the language in which it was written. Course sections may focus on literature from any non-English speaking country, as long as there are sufficient numbers of interested students and faculty who can teach in that language are available.

This course, which examines the world’s greatest literary works (such as James Joyce’s Ulysses) is designed to help older adults learn about trends in writing in different societies. Older adults learn about the uniqueness of each age of literature and each author under scrutiny. Various literary themes and the concerns of authors in different historical periods serve as a basis for discussion so that older adults may compare and contrast these topics with current events, modern cultures and sub-cultures, and societal structures and mores. Older adults will also discuss with their peers how these works relate to their own life experiences and accumulated knowledge.

This course is designed for older adults who want to explore literature, such as the works of Milton, Austen, Hawthorne, and T.S. Eliot, as well as short stories from Latin America, America, Europe, and Africa, and discuss it with their peers. This course allows older adults to experience a wide range of classic and contemporary literature in a social setting and relate that content and emotion to their own personal life experiences.

This course allows older adults to study and discuss selected plays by William Shakespeare and his contemporaries with their peers. Older adults will experience or re-experience the emotional and dramatic content in Shakespeare’s classic works in light of their current life situations, and discuss the concerns of the human heart from the height of passion to the depths of despair.

This course introduces older adults to a wide variety of interpretations of biblical literature, encouraging students to offer interpretations based on their own knowledge and life experiences.

This course assists older adults in analyzing American novels, discussing them with their peers, and renewing their appreciation for this unique form of literature. Older adults learn background and trends in writing in different time periods and regions of America, and discuss how these works relate to their own life experiences and accumulated knowledge.

This course introduces older adults to the world of ancient Greek drama and fosters discussion among peers. Older adults will study Greek theater from a literary viewpoint and learn about plots, characters, and different interpretations through comparative analysis. Older adults will learn how ancient Greek drama is interpreted in modern media and will relate it to their own lives and experiences.

This course stimulates older adults — many of whom are in residential or convalescent homes — to rediscover their life experiences, interact with peers, and renew their involvement with music in order to promote mental, emotional, and physical health. Older adult students will discuss and listen to music, focusing on different themes or exploring a particular composer or musical era each week.

This course provides older adults with a telescopic look at the development of music in western culture. Older adults learn how musical experiences can continue to enhance and stimulate their lives, and explore the origins and development of western music from major historical periods. Older adults listen to and discuss western music with their peers, learn about musical style, form, and composers, and share ways in which western music has influenced their lives.

This course reinforces older adults’ love of performing music in public and provides a structure for them to express themselves and participate in a performance group during their later years. Older adults also experience the physical benefits of deep breathing and head, eye, and ear coordination that result from playing a musical instrument. The course mentally stimulates older adults to concentrate on a wide variety of musical score, memorize parts, and problem solve in front of an audience.

This course re-stimulates older adults’ interest in and knowledge of music played on the guitar and enhances their self-expression through music. Older adults learn basic and some advanced guitar chords, strumming patterns, and finger picks while playing songs from the 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, as well as traditional folk songs.

This course provides older adults with an opportunity to express themselves musically, perform in community events, gain a sense of belonging to a creative peer group, and continue their life experiences in music. The course also helps older adults improve their vocal performance skills, rehearsal techniques, and general knowledge of music.

This course provides a venue for older adults to discover or strengthen their musical creativity, personal vocal skill, performance standards, and self-confidence. Vocal exercises and solo singing. Advanced memorization is stressed.

This course introduces older adults to gospel music, literature, and singing techniques with the goal of performing throughout the community. The course provides a venue for older adult students to express themselves through gospel music, gain knowledge of the history of gospel music, build or rebuild their self-confidence as soloists or group performers, and interact with a group of creative peers.

This course provides older adults (primarily those with a working knowledge of the Spanish language) with an opportunity to practice and perform music in Spanish from around the world. Older adult students are introduced to Spanish music, literature, and singing techniques from their own and other cultures, and encouraged to express themselves through Spanish folk songs.

Formerly HUMDEV E17.

In this class, Emeritus students will experience a series of concert performances through a mix of live and in-person performances and pre-recordings. These musical performances will expose students to different performers, composers, and musicians and engage in stimulating discussions about music, performers’ lives, the ways in which music and art can enrich one’s life, and so forth. This seminar provides a space for students to socialize with their peers and validate their life experiences while gaining exposure to mentally stimulating content.

This course helps older adults understand and appreciate opera as a music form and provides opportunities for socialization through shared interests. Older adults learn about the creative aspects, history, and development of opera. The course includes operatic experiences, live productions, and other opportunities for mental stimulation and peer group socialization.

This course helps older adults understand how music can enhance their life experiences by learning more about music styles, composition, performance, and historical periods. Older adults listen to and discuss musical selections and composers’ biographies; expand their musical knowledge and understanding of different types of music, including orchestral, jazz, indigenous, and film music; and explore different aspects of musical performance by comparing different performers’ recordings of the same piece.

This course provides older adults with a musical growth experience, opportunities to enhance their self-esteem and sense of belonging, and a way to express their creativity and interact with peers. Older adults rehearse and perform three-part arrangements of classics, Broadway hits, and ragtime music, and learn to be positive contributors to the sound, appearance, and artistic personality of a performing chorus while keeping their concentration and lung capacity at a peak.

This course is intended to enhance the enjoyment of creating music among older adults and enhance their ability to express themselves through music. Older adults learn to play piano music at their own level and pace, and participate in group discussions with peers. Older adults also learn musical skills and concepts and develop their ability to play piano music.

This course furthers older adults — consumer knowledge about home gardening techniques; older adults learn what to buy, what to avoid, and how to get the most pleasure out of home gardening. Older adults also discuss gardening choices and techniques to compensate for difficulties brought on by aging, living in an apartment, or being on a fixed income. In addition, older adults study a wide variety of plants used in homes and gardens around them and learn about plant selection, care, and maintenance. This course emphasizes hands-on instruction in ornamental and edible gardening techniques, native plants, and water conservation.

This course helps older adults select and maintain a small garden or group of plants in an indoor environment. The course is designed especially for older adults in residential or daycare facilities, and helps older adults get the most pleasure out of gardening while socializing with others and using as many life skills as possible.

This course increases older adults’ understanding of local, national, and international current affairs and how it affects their lives as well as the world around them. Older adults consider the political, economic, and social movements that determine domestic and foreign policies in the United States and around the world.

This course helps Emeritus students understand how music and culture influences and is influenced by political movements. Emphasis will be placed on listening to the music of various eras in American history and discussing how the music shaped and was shaped by those historical events, and what the impacts of those events are on current American life and politics.

This course helps Emeritus students understand how political movements influence and are influenced by popular culture (such as music, books, comics, fine arts, sports, theater, films and TV). Emphasis will be placed on reviewing different elements of popular culture of various eras in American history and discussing those influences and their impacts on American life and politics.

This course explores the intricate relationship between technology and politics, analyzing how technological advancements shape political systems, governance, policy-making, and public engagement. Students will examine the impact of technology on political campaigns, information dissemination, surveillance, cybersecurity, citizen participation, and the formulation of government policies. Through case studies, discussions, and critical analysis, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the complexities and implications of technology in the political landscape, including its influence on policy development, implementation, and the functioning of government institutions.

This course increases Emeritus students’ understanding of various subjects that vary from term to term. Students will consider the political, social and economic ramifications of special topics each term, both domestically and around the world. Topics may include such subjects as: America & the World; Health Care in the US; US Economy & Taxes; Global Climate Change; Poverty in America; Housing in California, etc. Check section note for course topic(s).

This course allows older adults to explore the human condition in historical and contemporary dramatic literature, fairy tales, myths, and legends, satire, and parody. By learning how to analyze and interpret these texts, older adults will be able to craft the characters that inhabit these stories. Through the transformative process of creativity, older adults improve their acting skills and participate in a public performance, which builds self-confidence and self esteem.

This course expands older adults’ knowledge of play production methods and the history of the theater as it relates to current society and the life experiences of older adults. Older adults will learn about theater production from the viewpoint of the director, actor, critic, and viewer.

This course increases older adults’ knowledge of how to present dramatic literature and allows them to express themselves by reading scenes, poetry, illuminating literature, or speeches in front of an audience. Older adults also interpret plays and practice acting skills with their peers. This course expands older adults’ experience with dramatic literature without requiring perfect recall from memory.

Formerly HUMDEV E15.

This course is designed to help Emeritus students improve their outlook on life, stimulate their minds and imaginations, improve peer group interaction and communication, and increase their sense of positive aging through humor. Students will engage with their peers in a positive and up-lifting manner while learning about the use of humor through the ages. They will learn about comedy in theater, literature, film, and music from the beginnings of recorded civilization to the present, and will discuss: changes in stereotypes such as comedic images of older adults and other subgroups of the community; different types of humor; and/or popular trends in comedy, stand-up comedy, comedy of stage and screen, musical comedy, musical satire, with a special emphasis on the connection of rhythm and comic timing.

This course encourages older adults to awaken their childhood by introducing them to the fundamentals of theatre improvisation. Students will joyfully explore essential improvisation performance techniques like spontaneity, creating an environment, character development, and structuring a scene. Build community with classmates through exercises, games, and group activities while having fun developing transferable life skills like quick-thinking, playfulness, imagination, and self-discovery. No improv experience necessary.

Formerly HUMDEV E22.

This course is designed to help Emeritus students learn about Jewish culture, from the historical backdrop of the 19th Century’s worldwide advances, pogroms, and immigrations, to the flowering of Jewish art, culture and entertainment in 20th Century United States and beyond. The course aims to improve students’ outlook on life, stimulate their minds and imaginations, improve peer group interaction and communication, and increase their sense of positive aging and cultural identity with particular attention to Jewish humor and tenacity as survival mechanisms in the face of adversity. Students will engage with their peers in a positive and up-lifting manner while learning about the use of art and humor through the last century. They will learn about Jewish theater, literature, film, art and music, and how American culture has flourished as a result of the Jews’ contributions. We will discuss: changes in stereotypes such as comedic images of older adults and other subgroups of the community; different types of art, self-expression and humor; and/or popular trends in all aspects of culture and entertainment.

In this performance-based class, students will be expected to learn and perform Close-up and Stage Magic. From card tricks to dinner table gags, the illusions covered in this class are practical, easy, and fun to do. Students will focus on entertaining friends and family while mastering the physical and mental concentration needed to create a successful trick. We will also discuss performance skills and presence on stage.

Formerly ENGL E28.

This course engages Emeritus students in the rich theatrical material available in the Los Angeles area by exposing them to an assortment of American, English, and other theatrical works, playwrights, and screenwriters. Students will learn about plots, characters, and the many interpretations of plays through comparative analysis, will relate plays to their life experiences, and will engage in respectful discussions with their peers.

This course helps older adults explore the art, technology, language and appreciation of film from the point of view of the older adult. Older adult students analyze the fundamentals of film production as a means of encouraging mental stimulation and peer socialization. Film examples are shown in class for comparison and discussion.

This course is designed for Emeritus students interested in exploring the art of writing play scripts and screenplays. Students will learn the essential storytelling elements, character development, plot structure, dialogue, and formatting. The course will provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment that encourages self-expression and fosters community among like-minded students. The instructor will be available to provide individualized notes, and students will have the opportunity to write and share their original writing through workshops and activities. Overall, this course is an excellent opportunity for students to learn new skills and share their unique experiences through storytelling. All experience levels are welcome.

This course will present basic energy concepts, lighting fundamentals and identification of opportunities for efficiency changes in buildings. Topics include scientific principles of energy, light and heat, energy codes and standards, metering and monitoring. Students will examine the economic, regulatory, and infrastructure issues affecting implementation of energy efficiency measures as well as their potential for solving energy and environmental problems.

This course will develop an intermediate level of understanding of energy efficiency concepts especially as they apply to reductions in residential energy consumption and the practice of Building Performance Analysis. This course will cover energy and power concepts, rate options, load profile understanding, an introduction to smart grid technology, deeper understanding of the principles of heat, air, and moisture movement in residential homes. Students will be introduced to the operation of energy audit equipment such as the blower door test, the duct blaster, and the combustion analyzer. Student will learn to identify CAZ zones (combustion air zones) and to structure the placement of the blower door and duct blaster and develop the procedure for measuring air leakage rates of a typical residential home.

• Advisory: ENERGY 1 and ENERGY 2.

This course examines energy efficiency concepts as they apply to reductions in energy consumption for commercial buildings. Assessment of building performance related to design, construction, and operation will be analyzed. Students will examine various gas and electric rate options, HVAC systems and types of high-intensity lighting. Load profiles, calculating return on investment, and life-cycle cost of commercial building energy retrofit measures are explored.

This course is an introduction to the methods and tools of engineering problem solving and design, including the interface of the engineer with society and engineering ethics. While addressing the branches of engineering, the functions of an engineer, and the industries in which engineers work, this course examines the engineering education pathways and explores effective academic strategies. Communication skills pertinent to the engineering profession are also addressed.

• Prerequisite: MATH 2 or (MATH 3 and MATH 4).

This course covers the principles of engineering drawings to visually communicate engineering designs. The course also serves as an introduction to computer-aided design (CAD). Topics include the development of visualization skills, orthographic projections, dimensioning and tolerancing practices, and an introduction to the engineering design process. Sketching, engineering drawings, and 3D CAD solid modeling skills are developed. The use of CAD software is an integral part of the course.

• Prerequisite: PHYSCS 21 and MATH 7.

This course covers basic principles of static equilibrium in two and three dimensions utilizing vector analysis and Newton’s laws. Various structures are considered which include trusses, frames, machines, and beams.

• Prerequisite: ENGR 12.

This course addresses the kinematics and dynamics of particles and rigid bodies in two and three dimensions. Topics considered include universal gravitation, conservation laws, work-energy and impulse-momentum relations, and mechanical vibration.

• Prerequisite: PHYSCS 22.
• Prerequisite/Corequisite: MATH 15 (MATH 15 can be taken concurrently with ENGR 21).

This course serves as an introduction to the analysis of electrical circuits through the use of analytical techniques based on the application of circuit laws and network theorems. The course covers DC and AC circuits containing resistors, capacitors, inductors, dependent sources, operational amplifiers, and/or switches. The analysis of these circuits include natural and forced responses of first and second order RLC circuits, the use of phasors, AC power calculations, power transfer, and energy concepts.

• Prerequisite/Corequisite: ENGR 21.

This course serves as an introduction to the construction, measurement, and design of elementary electrical circuits and basic operational amplifier circuits. Students gain familiarity with the basic use of electrical test and measurement instruments, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, and function generators. Using principles of circuit analysis for DC, transient, and sinusoidal steady-state (AC) conditions, students develop data interpretation skills by using circuit simulation software and by direct measurements of circuits. Practical considerations such as component value tolerance and non-ideal aspects of laboratory instruments are also introduced.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Please see “Independent Studies” section.

Cal-GETC Area 1A (English Composition)

• Prerequisite: Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process.

Formerly ENGL 1.

In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research.

• Prerequisite: ESL 19B or Group A Placement.

This introductory course in rhetoric emphasizes clear, effective written communication and preparation of the research paper using texts that showcase issues of diversity and systems of difference. Students will learn of at least 2 different groups of people and begin to understand, through multiple perspectives and contexts, how political and social structures impact these groups. Examples of topics that may be discussed in class include the environment, violence, education, and the media.

• Prerequisite: ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1).

This advanced writing course is intended especially for English majors and other students desiring to develop rhetorical skills beyond those practiced in ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1). It stresses critical analysis and argument, and focuses on style in effectively communicating with various audiences.

• Advisory: Eligibility for ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1).

This course is designed for college-level readers who wish to develop reading versatility, effectiveness and efficiency in reading and studying. It includes rapid reading applied to general materials, skimming, study-reading of college texts, an introduction to critical reading, and general vocabulary building.

Please see “Internships” section.

Please see “Internships” section.

• Prerequisite: ENGL 2 and admission to the SMC baccalaureate program.

Written and oral communications vary greatly between disciplines and fields. Building on the critical thinking and writing skills developed at the lower division level, this course further prepares students in the application of logical reasoning, analysis, and strategies of argumentation in both written and oral communication of content specific information. Students examine scholarly and professional readings and apply theoretical perspectives in a variety of modalities (genres and media) in a way that is targeted to specific audiences. Through critical analysis and review of appropriate literature, as well as complex writing assignments, students develop writing as a core aspect of academic and professional practice.

This course is open only to students who have been admitted to SMC’s Bachelor of Science program in Interaction Design. See for more information.

• Advisory: ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1).

This course is designed to introduce students to the craft and technique involved in writing short fiction and/or poetry.

• Prerequisite: ENGL 30A.

This course continues the student’s training in the craft and technique of writing short fiction or poetry, and introduces creative non-fiction.

C-ID: ENGL 200.

• Prerequisite: Eligibility for ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1).

This course introduces the craft and practice of creative writing through reading and writing in various genres. Students will explore poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction in their many forms and sub-genres. This course focuses on the fundamentals of these genres and related forms. Students will generate new pieces and be introduced to the workshop method. In workshop, they will offer constructive and critical feedback. While developing their writing process, students will also learn to apply critiques and revise their original work. The course will introduce students to the critical skill of reading like writers to better understand the craft of creative writing.

• Prerequisites: Eligibility for ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1) and ENGL 71.

Students will expand and sharpen storytelling skills and gain a deeper understanding of the properties of fiction through writing, revision, reading, discussion, and critique. These activities will sensitize each writer to the techniques of language and rhythm, description and dialogue, and facilitate the exploration of the effects of character, point of view, plot, and sentence structure on narrative fiction.

• Prerequisites: Eligibility for ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1) and ENGL 71.

This creative writing course focuses on the fundamentals of poetry and related forms. Students will generate new pieces and participate in a peer-to-peer workshop where they will offer constructive and critical feedback. While developing their writing process, students will also learn to apply critique and revise their original work. The course will also include literary analysis to understand better the craft of poetry, publication, and performance.

• Prerequisites: Eligibility for ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGL 1) and ENGL 71.

This course introduces the craft and practice of creative nonfiction, which employs many of the literary strategies and techniques of fiction writing to the telling of true stories. Students will explore CNF subgenres such as memoir, flash and micro-memoir, researched nonfiction, hermit crabs and other borrowed forms, lyric, braided, and other types of personal essays, cultural criticism, travel narratives and even hybrid subgenres. Students will expand and sharpen storytelling skills and gain a deeper understanding of the properties of creative nonfiction through writing, revision, reading, discussion, and critique. By reading and analyzing a range of nonfiction works, students will broaden their understanding of the narrative designs, literary techniques, and opportunities for expression available in creative nonfiction.

This course is designed to help students improve intermediate reading and writing skills necessary for college success. Students will increase their reading comprehension and vocabulary; they will build their understanding of patterns of organization used in academic writing, as well as their inferential reading techniques. Through the integrated study of reading and writing, students will develop an efficient writing process appropriate to audience and purpose. The course requires classroom work, and homework. In ENGL 20, students will also review grammar and usage and develop skill in writing essays.

• Prerequisite: Group B on the Placement Test.

This course is an intermediate course designed to improve the reading skills necessary for college success and is strongly recommended for all students who score at the B level on the English Assessment Test. It concentrates on techniques of comprehension, such as finding the main idea, recognizing details and patterns of organization, as well as inference and critical reading skills. It also focuses on vocabulary development, study reading techniques and reading rate and flexibility.

• Prerequisite: Group A or B on the Placement Test.

This course is an intensive review of the principles of grammar for students who want to increase their understanding of the fundamentals of English. The course is open to all students at the A or B level. Students may wish to take the course prior to or concurrently with an English composition or a Business English course.

• Prerequisite: Group B on the Placement Test.

This course emphasizes clear, effective written communication and preparation of the research paper to prepare students for success in college-level composition and reading. It consists of instruction in composition, comprehension and analysis of college-level readings, and basic research skills.