There are three components to the academic portion of this semester program: classes, internships and service. You will receive 9 semester credits for the three classes and 6 semester credits for the internship.
Classes
At Pittsburgh Semester, everyone takes the same three classes at the same time. That enables you to talk, think, read, listen, and ask questions together. We figure learning happens best when it's communal, when everyone is involved in the process. You spend as much time in discussions as in lectures. You don't just read books alone; you talk about them together. Pittsburgh Semester is always looking to link the classes with the broader city. You will take field trips, hear guest speakers, and analyze your internships. Below is a brief description of the classes (each lasting five weeks).
The Human Experience in Urban Society gives you an introduction to the city, with particular attention to Pittsburgh. What are cities like and how do they shape our lives? What exactly makes them different from other places? As part of those questions, you'll address topics such as the racial, economic, and religious diversity of urban centers.
The Search for Meaning explores different perspectives of the good life. In short, how can one live a life of meaning and moral purpose in the contemporary world (especially in cities)? In addition to core reading assignments, you'll do a research project related to your internship in which you highlight a moral dilemma from work and explore resolution.
Christian Vocation addresses the question: How can believers connect faith to the breadth of our lives? In addition to core reading, you'll spend the last two weeks on individual projects developing your own vocational vision. The project will blend reading and reflection.
Internships
You will work 20 hours per week (Mondays and Wednesdays all day, plus Friday mornings) at a professional internship in your field. The internship is unpaid, but you earn six college credits and get invaluable work experience. Moreover, with an unpaid internship you typically have more freedom to explore different roles and responsibilities on the job.
Service Projects
Every Friday afternoon, you will break from the routine of working and studying for service projects. You will be placed in an ongoing placement to make sure you get to really know the community and your neighbors. And once relationships develop, we think you'll see that service goes both ways. You'll offer your time for a half day each week, but you'll learn and receive every bit as much as you give.
