The Most Controversial College Classes

The N-Word: An Anatomy Lesson — Arizona State University

The N-Word: An Anatomy Lesson — Arizona State University

This word is known to be one of the most controversial words in modern society, so this class takes a look at the issues that surround this provocative word.

Critics of this class believed that the word was used too liberally in the class, but others felt that the word’s use was justified because this class really gave students a chance to dispel some of the mystery and controversy surrounding it.

(Image via Wikipedia)

Politics of the Middle East — Brooklyn College

Politics of the Middle East — Brooklyn College

Politics of the Middle East shouldn’t really be that controversial of a class, but if a professor’s views are biased toward a particular country, it can become an issue.

This professor, in particular, was pro-Palestinian, which did not sit well with school administrators and even state legislators. As a result, the professor who taught this class was fired, and the official reason given was that he was “underqualified.” 

(Image via Brooklyn College)

Animal Liberation — Monash University

Animal Liberation — Monash University

This course asked students to seriously think about the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of animals and the ways that human beings treat them. Many students felt that modern, everyday practices toward animals weren't humane, which sparked a lot of serious debate in the class.

School officials worried that students would be prompted to join controversial organizations like PETA after being exposed to this material. 

(Image via Monash University)

What is Islam? — Lane Community College

What is Islam? — Lane Community College

This class debuted shortly after the 9/11 attacks, so many people were skeptical about the nature of this class. The professor, who was the chapter leader of an organization called Act for America, wanted to teach this class as part of the group’s motto to “inform, educate, and mobilize Americans regarding the multiple threats of radical Islam, and what they can and must do to protect themselves and their country against this determined enemy.”

Many felt this class would only spread hatred toward Islam, even though the professor claimed he would present the religion fairly and in an unbiased manner. 

(Image via Aubree Cote)

Whiteness: The Other Side — Mt. Holyoke College

Whiteness: The Other Side — Mt. Holyoke College

This class explores exactly what’s stated in the title: White privilege. The professor wanted to expose students to the small things in society that they take for granted as white individuals and help them realize that they can do something to change the status quo.

This class was controversial because administrators and parents weren’t sure that they wanted students studying such a volatile topic.

(Image via Mt. Holyoke College)