January Term

The Art of Fly-Fishing 

Instructor: Christopher Schaberg
Subject: English

"The Art of Fly-Fishing" will be an in-person Field Experience that will meet at Bayou St. John in Mid-City New Orleans during the J-Term. Why should a fishing course be offered as an English course? Because historically fly-fishing has been yoked to literary expression as well as to a certain minimalist, poetic aesthetic. (It’s also an ecological practice, making the class viable as a contribution to the badge in Environmental Sustainability.) Over two weeks Loyola students will learn the basics of fly-fishing and will collaborate on a piece of writing tentatively called "Learning to Fly-Fish in New Orleans" which will be submitted for publication. This course will teach practical skills as well as the theory, literary history, and ecological lessons of fly-fishing. 

This course is designed to meet a Loyola Core requirement. 

Science of Hate 

Instructor: Erin Dupuis
Subject: Psychological Sciences

This course provides an interdisciplinary perspective on why humans experience prejudice, violence, and persecution.What are the origins of hate? Is hate an emotion or a behavior? What ideologies and beliefs underlie hate? The main emphases are on empirical approaches, with reference to the behavioral sciences (social psychology, sociology, history, and political science), genetics and neuroscience, law, and even popular culture. We examine hate as an individual mechanism and also as a system. Topics include ingroup/outgroup bias, racism, sexism, and other “isms”, hate speech and hate crimes, religion and the feminine evil, terrorism and other related topics.

This course is designed to meet a Loyola Core requirement. 

Mental Illness, Substance Use, and the American Justice System 

Instructor: Andrew Denney
Subject: Criminology and Justice

This course examines the ways in which people with mental illness and people who use substances have been criminalized by the American justice system in the past 70 years. It covers deinstitutionalization and its effects, the War on Drugs and its effects, recent ameliorative steps to try to reverse (or at least slow) the trend of criminalizing members of these two groups, and the clear limits of those steps. 

The Role of Race in Hollywood – Tuition-Free DEI Course

Instructor: Ty Lawson
Subject: Journalism/School of Communication and Design

This course examines and illustrates the unique, multidimensional experiences of people of color in Hollywood. It explores how race and ethnicity as social categories are shaped by Hollywood. The goal is to illuminate how the meanings of race are constructed and can be read through cinema, such as in the socio-political context of multiculturalism in the United States. We will focus on contemporary films representing groups from the global diaspora. Our analysis will illuminate how film produces both conventional and transgressive gazes. 

This course is designed to meet a Loyola Core requirement. 

Interfaith Relations 

Instructor: Adil Khan
Subject: Religious Studies

This course is intended for students to discuss and address practical issues pertaining to Interfaith Relations in the contemporary world.  Its aim is for students to study Interfaith Relations and learn about how Interfaith Relations can be improved, whether by aiding in conflict resolution, developing outreach strategies for more cohesive communities, or re-conceptualizing ideas collectively in ways that work for a particular real-world situation.

This course is designed to meet a Loyola Core requirement. 

Own Voices Movement in YA Lit

Instructor: Lindsay Sproul
Subject: English

This course offers a rigorous study of identity and representation in literature in both critical and creative writing as well as storytelling. Students will learn to analyze texts and films through both a creative and analytical lens.The course focuses on the "Own Voices" movement in the Young Adult genre- an effort to bring marginalized voices to the forefront in the publishing world. Students will develop skills in analysis, critical thought, and revision and publishing as they examine the work of marginalized writers and the publication process of those writers.

Race and Mass Incarceration 

Instructor: Christian Bolden
Subject: Criminology and Justice

This course explores the social structural processes, causes, and consequences of mass incarceration in the United States and the disparate impact of the justice system on racial and ethnic groups. Using a social justice lens we will track the systemic elements and problem of mass incarceration, beginning with school to prison pipeline, we will examine the interconnectedness of education and criminal justice and the consequences of unequal application of discipline based on race. We will also explore the criminal justice institutions, the experience of incarceration, and the process of reentry with an emphasis on how “colorblind” systems mask significantly varied outcomes for racial/ethnic groups. Critical evaluation of the impact of criminal justice systems and disproportionate representation of marginalized groups will be investigated. The outcome of the course will be student advocacy, ingenuity, or creative solutions for addressing mass incarceration.    

This course is designed to meet a Loyola Core requirement. 

Asian Pop Music and Global Culture

Instructor: Janna Saslaw
Subject: School of Music and Theatre Professions

In recent decades, Asian pop music has garnered larger and larger audiences across the globe, gaining social and economic status. This course examines Korean, Japanese, and Chinese pop (K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop, respectively) in order to discover aspects that resonate or conflict with cultural concepts within Asia and internationally. Among the features we will investigate are the idol training system and major companies, the evolution and meaning of musical styles, visual media, construction of gender roles, cultural appropriation, racism, economic factors, and reception. We will also delve into fan engagement with these pop music genres, including dance covers, cosplay, fan fiction, fan chants, anti-fans, obsessive fans, and modes of interaction with favorite performers (fan meetings, online and live concerts, dramas, variety shows, vlogs, YouTube channels, private message apps, artist merchandise, etc.).

This course is designed to meet a Loyola Core requirement. 

A Scientific Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - Tuition-Free DEI Course

Instructor: Jamileh Beik Mohammadi
Subject: Physics 

Our ways of thinking about and interacting with people are often affected by our judgments and generalization. We judge and treat those around us by measuring their social and economic success. Over time we gather (minimal) data about people of different races, genders, etc., and do statistical analysis to make conclusions and generalizations. In this "statistical" approach with a small amount of data, causation isn't fully determined. As a result, this approach leads to false data interpretation and misconceptions regarding race, gender, etc. In this course, we will use a scientific approach to eliminate (at least minimize) such misconceptions in the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Basic logic, scientific methods, and statistics will be covered by means of electronic logic, physics theory-building used in physics research, and quantum mechanics. 

Students will practice how to interpret data and make logical conclusions in:

• Purely mathematical examples.
• Physics examples of electronics and quantum mechanics.
• Statistical data related to DEI.

This course is an introduction to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) using scientific methods and approach commonly used in physics. The tentative topics are scientific methods, logics, and statistics in DEI. We will use electronics and basic quantum mechanics ideas to learn scientific methods and to practice logics and statistical data interpretation in DEI topics. No intro level physics class is a pre-req for this course. Enthusiasm and interest in learning new things will help you a great deal in succeeding this class.

This course is designed to meet a Loyola Core requirement. 

American Horror Story: Horror Cinema in American History

Instructor: Caleigh Flynn
Subject: Digital Filmmaking/School of Communication & Design

American Horror Story explores the role of the horror film in American culture, and examines the various ways these films mirror, subvert, and define sociological trends and anxieties over the past century. Through analyzing and discussing horror as a diverse genre, students will learn the “language” of visual horror and expand their knowledge of cinematic storytelling techniques. Students will also examine the experience of the horror audience- why is a film considered frightening? What is it teaching us to fear? And what do these films say about us?  Through screenings and reading assignments, students will learn to explore horror through the intersections of gender, sexuality, race, and movements in American history and politics. They will also learn how to become conversant in analytical discourse related to controversial subject matter and construct dialogue about difficult topics such as onscreen depictions of violence as well as the psychological impact of the genre as a whole. (Note: this course was delivered in Spring 22 as a FILM elective.)

Special Topics in International Business – Study Abroad 

Instructors: Mazhar Islam, Frankie Weinberg
Subject: Business 

The study abroad program will provide a pillar and opportunity for students to complete the necessary requirements for international traveling experience, while building on the core competencies of the international business program, but also providing a great opportunity for non-business students interested in learning more about Asia and especially Thailand. Learn more on the study abroad website. 

What is the January Term (J-Term)?

J-Term is an accelerated two-week learning opportunity before the start of the spring semester. All J-Term courses are three credits unless otherwise noted. 

What are the benefits of a J-Term?

Loyola has added an optional J-Term to provide additional and flexible academic opportunities for students to catch-up, get ahead, or study abroad. For students who work or don’t have time during traditional semesters, J-Term provides more opportunities for accelerated coursework, research, and study abroad programs that enhance the academic experience.  

When is J-Term?

The 2023 J-Term runs from January 3 – January 13. Check the online class schedule, Canvas, as well as the syllabus for your class for specific meeting times.

If I do not take classes during J-Term, will I have a long winter break?

Yes! J-Term is completely optional. For students not taking classes during J-Term, the break will last until the start of spring session later in January. Students may engage in work opportunities, apply for jobs, and complete graduate school applications during their extended break. For other students, the winter break is an important time to rest and recharge. 

Can I start at Loyola during the J-Term?

J-Term is intended for continuing students only. Admission to Loyola for undergraduate students is only for fall, spring, or summer.

When can I sign up for classes and how many credits may I take?

Registration for J-Term starts on November 7, and students can register based on the Spring 2023 Registration Timetable found here. Students who wish to take a J-Term class may register for no more than one. For questions regarding course registration, contact your advisor. 

International students are advised to contact the Center for International Education at cie@loyno.edu.    

How can I find J-Term courses in LORA Self Service?

You can find J-Term courses in the course catalog in LORA Self-Service by selecting the "Spring 2023" term and hitting the "Search" button.

If you have a specific course you are searching for, then you can select the instructor and subject listed above in the course descriptions section of this page. Please note: Some courses may be listed as “Experimental Courses” in Self-Service, and the title will show up by viewing available sections. See the example below for Dr. Schaberg's "The Art of Fly-Fishing" course.

If you want to see a listing of all J-Term courses in LORA Self-Service, then you can scroll down to the "Topics" section and select "January 2-Week Session." 

If you have any trouble finding courses or need help, please reach out to your advisor. You must be cleared by your advisor to register for J-Term courses. For more registration help, check out the Student Success Center's registration resources.

What opportunities are available during J-Term?

Academic experiences will include online, remote, or study abroad courses. No on-campus courses will be offered. Please check the J-Term course descriptions above for more information.

Will J-term coursework be graded?

Yes. J-term coursework will be rigorous and demanding, with graded assignments during the two-week term. Students should be prepared to commit time and effort to the term before enrolling. 

Will there be final exams for J-Term?

Some classes may have final exams associated with their curriculum. Students should consult the syllabus for the class.

Can I graduate following J-Term?

Students will not be able to graduate after J-Term. However, students in J-Term will be able to graduate at the end of spring semester if the courses taken during J-Term fulfill their graduation requirements. 

What education abroad options are available during J-term?

Check the J-term program listing for all J-term education abroad opportunities. Not all Loyola J-term education abroad programs are offered every year. Check the individual program page to see the next available term and associated deadlines. 

When is the deadline to apply for a J-term education abroad experience?

Deadlines vary by program. Check the program you are interested in for specific deadlines. Study abroad deadlines are different from online and remote J-term courses. 

Do I need to apply for a short-term Education Abroad experience?

All study abroad students are required to apply for an education abroad experience. Begin the process by viewing information at Get Started. Once a program is selected, log into the application at https://studyabroad.loyno.edu/ using your Loyola login credentials and complete the application materials.   

How do I register for an Education Abroad program?

Education abroad program registrations and cancellations are processed through the Center for International Education. For questions about registration, contact CIE at 504-864-7550 or by email at cie@loyno.edu. Learn more about education abroad program opportunities.

What are the tuition and fees for J-Term?

J-Term, May Term, and Summer session all have the same tuition rate of $740/credit hour. The per credit tuition rate for students enrolled in fully online programs differs from this rate, as would any courses billed at a per student rate (private music lessons, Loyola Institute of Ministry courses, etc.).

As part of Loyola’s Strategic Plan for Inclusive Excellence (which calls on Loyola to expand curricular and co-curricular courses and programs addressing issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice), there will be two free courses offered during the J-Term. These courses are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and will not exceed regular maximum enrollments. We are pleased to offer The Role of Race in Hollywood and A Scientific Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; both courses satisfy Loyola Core requirements and may be used toward the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Core Badge. 

Study abroad programs have their own program fees. For details, visit the study abroad website. 

When will I be billed for J-Term?

The cost to enroll in J-Term courses will appear on the spring tuition bill in LORA Self-Service; however, J-Term credit hours are calculated and billed as a separate line item from spring courses. If you have questions about tuition and billing, please contact Student Financial Services by calling 504-865-3337 or emailing us at sfscenter@loyno.edu.  

Will taking a J-Term course affect my registration status in the spring?

J-Term credit hours will count toward a student’s registration status (part-time or full-time) to determine academic standing in the spring. However, financially, the J-term course will be charged separately from the tuition for the semester. For example, a student who is enrolled in 9 credit hours in the spring and 3 credit hours for the J-Term will be considered a full-time student in the spring. 

Will financial aid be available?

Federal and state financial aid will be available and the hours taken during J-Term will be added to all other credit hours taken during spring semester to determine overall enrollment. For example, a student enrolled in 3 credit hours during J-Term and 9 credit hours during the spring semester will be considered full time with 12 credits for federal and state financial aid. Institutional scholarships will not be available for J-Term, thus a student in the same scenario would be considered enrolled for 9 credits when determining institutional aid eligibility. We must have a 2022-23 Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and have a complete financial aid file to be considered for federal and state aid. J-Term will be its own line item on the bill, separate from all other sessions in the spring semester.

If you have questions, contact the Financial Aid office at finaid@loyno.edu, call 504-865-3231, or schedule a time to meet https://loynofinaid.youcanbook.me/.

May I live in the residence hall during J-Term?

As the J-term is online for the Spring 2023 semester, the residence halls will be closed during this time. Move in for new and returning students is Sunday January 15, 2023 beginning at 9 a.m.  Residential Life will send move-in instructions.  

What dining locations are open during J-Term?

For a full list of dining locations and their hours of operation during J-Term, visit the Dining Services website. Food service locations will be limited based on enrollment and number of students attending the various locations. Some of the services provided at the locations will be limited over the winter break.

What Loyola services will be available?

The University Sports Complex will be open during the following hours of operation:

• Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Sunday: 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.         
• Closed on some holidays

The Student Success Center, Career Center, and Center for International Education will be open to assist students during J-Term. 

What services are available at the library during J-Term?

Monroe Library building hours:

• Tuesday, January 3 – Friday, January 13
• Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: Closed
• Monday, Jan 16:  Holiday hours 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. 

As all J-term courses are online, library support is available remotely:

• Contact your librarian liaison for research consultations via Zoom. 
• Most library resources are available remotely, using your Microsoft account for authentication. Go to http://library.loyno.edu for library resources and follow up with your liaison, if you have questions. 
• Interlibrary loan is available and should be quick enough to receive articles electronically during J-Term. 
• If your course has streaming video or an etextbook, they will be available in Canvas. 

All information is subject to change, and is updated as of October 18, 2022.