Course Selection
New in 2025, students in College Edge will choose one class each from Block A, Block B and Block C. Students will also participate in two college-living labs.
After you are accepted to the College Edge program, you will be invited to complete your course selection online. Courses will fill up, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible if you are interested in specific courses below.
Block A Course Options
Human-Animal Studies 101
This introductory course examines the field of Human-Animal Studies. Explore human-animal relationships, bonds, and interactions, and learn to bridge connections between humans and animals. Gain insights into the dynamics of these relationships and their impact on both species.
Research Perspectives: Martial Arts History
Explore the development of various Martial Arts over time while honing essential research skills. Examine research articles, evaluate sources for accuracy and validity, and develop your writing on this fascinating topic. Gain an in-depth understanding of Martial Arts history through critical analysis and scholarly research.
Psychology of Marvel
Analyze the psychological profiles of Marvel characters through comic book scenarios and movie clips. Explore trauma, identity disorders, the psychology of superpowers, and positive psychology’s role in building resiliency. Apply psychological theories to Marvel characters’ traits and behaviors using interactive activities.
Women in Resistance, Revolution & Rebellion
Investigate the pivotal roles women played in revolutionary, anti-colonial, and political resistance movements. Delve into the lives of key figures like Olympe de Gouges and Emmeline Pankhurst. Research and present on lesser-known female revolutionaries, examining their contributions to political and social change from the French Revolution to the Arab Spring.
Modern Humanities: Pop Culture and the Art of Storytelling
Unlock the power of storytelling in this exciting class, where you’ll dive into the art of narrative! Through hands-on reading, writing, and speaking projects, you will engage with popular culture to hone your communication skills while discovering how stories shape our understanding of the world, and inspire growth and action toward goals.
Block B Course Options
Psychology of Cults
Examine the phenomena of cults using sociological and social-psychological theories, along with narrative and literary accounts. Explore recruitment, conversion, conformity, commitment, and disaffiliation, with a focus on extreme obedience. Analyze commonalities between cults and totalitarian systems, including effects on personal life, social networks, ideology, and leader-follower dynamics.
Introduction to Engineering
This seminar-style course introduces STE(A)M concepts through engaging activities. Students explore the engineering design process, participate in academic discourse, and tackle activity-based, problem-based, and project-based tasks. Gain essential skills and attributes crucial in our technological world, understanding how STE(A)M activities mimic real-world scenarios.
Psychology of Gaming
Explore how psychology influences video game design, player engagement, and therapeutic uses. Reflect on your gaming habits, analyze the pros and cons of gaming, and use critical thinking in written and interactive activities. Learn how social connections and online behavior shape gaming culture and impact young adults’ mental health.
Pop Culture & Modern Mythology
Learn how modern pop culture phenomena like Star Wars, Marvel Comics, Percy Jackson, and Harry Potter serve as contemporary mythology. Analyze how these stories draw from ancient myths, shaping today’s narratives, values, and identities. Discover how new heroes and epic tales resonate with current generations.
Social Media Marketing
Ever wondered what it takes to be a Social Media Marketer? Discover the essentials of developing your own social media campaign. Learn all about Social Media Marketing, from strategy to execution, and gain the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic field. Join us and start your journey today!
Block C Course Options
Urban Legends & Modern Mythology
Explore the intriguing world of urban legends and modern myths through engaging reading, writing, and speaking projects. In this class, you’ll investigate the origins and cultural significance of these legends while researching credible sources and crafting compelling analyses. Sharpen your critical thinking skills as you uncover effective ways to distinguish fact from fiction!
Lyrical Literature
Discover how great songs have the same great elements found in Literature. In this course, we will learn all about how to become better readers and how to become aware of how great lyrics are made. We will discuss topics such as Universal Themes, Rhetorical Devices, Figurative Language, and more.
Psychology of Fandoms
Understand the psychological and social reasons behind fandoms and why people become deeply invested in TV shows, movies, video games, and more. Study group behavior, identity formation, and media influence using popular fandoms as examples. Create a fan profile project to analyze and present the captivating elements of a chosen fandom.
The Marvel Universe & Mythology
Analyze characters like Thor, Loki, Atlas, and Hercules, exploring their connections to mythology and culture. Engage in comparative analyses, character evaluations, and ethical examinations. Reflect on class participation. Gain insights into the intersectionality of ethics, popular culture, and mythology through interactive activities and discussions.
Navigating Math Through Problem Solving and Logic
This dynamic, hands-on course provides strategies for problem-solving through real-life scenarios and engaging dialogues. Tackle everyday challenges with accessible strategies and friendly dialogue. Master techniques that make math relatable and useful, using engaging stories and real-life examples to build essential skills. This isn’t your typical math class!
College-Living Labs
Navigating Digital Success: Assistive Tech, Microsoft Apps, and Canvas (Mandatory for Beacon-Bound Students)
Focused on exploring Assistive Technology, especially tools like Kurzweil and Microsoft’s built-in accessibility features. Another day focused on digital organization, with a strong emphasis on using OneDrive for efficient file management and how to create Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, PowerPoints, etc. Microsoft Outlook and other essential Microsoft apps, such as To Do and Calendar, for task management and scheduling. Covering Canvas, where students would learn to save and submit assignments and effectively utilize the Canvas calendar for academic planning, assignment chunking, etc.
Personal Finance
Gain essential skills in managing your money and building a strong financial foundation. This workshop covers budgeting, saving, and understanding credit so you can make informed financial decisions during college and beyond. You’ll learn practical tips for keeping your finances in check, from setting spending limits to planning for emergencies.
Understanding College Rules & Regulations
College comes with its own set of rules, expectations, and guidelines. In this workshop, you’ll explore key policies on attendance, academic integrity, housing, and other areas that can affect your college experience. Understanding these regulations will help you navigate your new environment confidently and avoid common pitfalls.
Dating and Parties
Social life in college brings new freedoms and responsibilities. This workshop explores healthy relationships, boundaries, and safe decision-making in dating and social situations. Learn strategies to enjoy your college experience while prioritizing your well-being and making choices that align with your values.
Resiliency for Real Life
Life after high school can come with unexpected challenges, and resilience is key to thriving through them. This workshop focuses on building skills to manage stress, overcome setbacks, and adapt to change. You’ll learn techniques for maintaining a positive outlook and staying motivated, even when things don’t go as planned.