White supremacist groups have seen surges in membership in recent years, and college-aged youth are one of their primary targets. With social media etc., it is easier than ever for them to get their ideas to the broader public and into mainstream politics. This course aims to give you the knowledge to recognize contemporary white supremacist movements, which have dramatically changed tactics from years prior. We will explore the history of these groups in the US, the major changes in image and strategies, and the global rise of white supremacist politics.

White supremacist groups have seen surges in membership in recent years, and college-aged youth are one of their primary targets. With social media etc., it is easier than ever for them to get their ideas to the broader public and into mainstream politics. This course aims to give you the knowledge to recognize contemporary white supremacist movements, which have dramatically changed tactics from years prior. We will explore the history of these groups in the US, the major changes in image and strategies, and the global rise of white supremacist politics.

This course is specially designed to facilitate a smooth transition for first-year students into university life, while simultaneously providing an introductory exploration of public policy. We will explore various campus resources, covering topics from academic advising, library and research facilities, student wellness, and support services, to extracurricular activities and engagement opportunities. We will also consider a broad overview of public policy, exploring its foundation, processes, and real-world impacts.

This course will provide first year students with an introduction to UMass and campus resources while also learning about the four fields of anthropology: cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. Specifically, we will focus on biological anthropology through hands-on activities using specimens and discussing the scientific method. Get ready to learn more about yourself and the Human Species!