Summer Zips 2026 : The University of Akron, Ohio

A Wonky Mirror. Cartoons: History, Development, and Reflection of Society

Audience

Undergraduate, Special Topics

Term

5 week II

Start

July 13, 2026

End

August 16, 2026

Course Number

ENGL 389-501

Credits

3

In this special topics course, students will look at the development of animation from its early stages (Flip books and the Kineograph), into the era of the Golden Age of Cartoons (1928-68), and a look into the more recent developments of CGI. While we’ll discuss technological advancements, we’ll also look at how animation/cartoons provide a Fun-house mirror of society and history. Students will have an opportunity for critical analysis of how different periods and practices were represented in these animated pieces.

Addressing Determinants of Health as Healthcare Providers

Audience

Special Topics: Undergraduate and Graduate elective for any health and human sciences or pre-health major

Term

5-week II

Start

July 13, 2026

End

August 16, 2026

Course Number

EXER 480-503 (undergraduate) and EXER 480-503 (graduate)

Credits

3

Health outcomes are profoundly influenced by the social determinants of health (SDOH), yet these critical factors are often only briefly addressed in health-related curricula—typically limited to one or two lectures. As a result, students frequently lack the opportunity to develop a deeper, discipline- specific understanding of how SDOH shape health care delivery and patient outcomes. This special topics course is designed to bridge that gap by providing students with a comprehensive exploration of SDOH as they relate to the populations they will serve. Key components of the course include participation in an experiential virtual poverty simulation from an open-access platform. Additionally, students will analyze case studies where SDOH significantly impact a person’s health, discover resources within their communities that address health inequities, and identify discipline-specific strategies to address SDOH.

American Government and Civic Literacy

Audience

Undergraduate

Term

8-week II

Start

June 8, 2026

End

August 2, 2026

Course Number

POLIT 101-502

Credits

3

This course is intended to help students develop a familiarity with and understanding of the American political system and founding documents. It will focus on the constitutional foundations, institutions, and role of the mass public in the political process. After completion of the course, students will have a greater understanding and appreciation for the history, traditions, powers, and potential of the American political system and process.

Bark Side of Biology: Lessons from the Domestic Dog

Audience

Undergraduate elective, Special Topics

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

BIOL 295

Credits

3

This special topics course uses the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) as a model organism to explore core concepts of biology and natural science. By using the familiar and well-loved dog as a model, we will explore topics surrounding evolution (including natural and artificial selection), domestication, genetics and genomics, anatomy and physiology, health and disease, and behavior and cognition. Students will read primary literature and apply scientific reasoning to understand dogs as biological organisms and companions

Exploring Biology

Audience

Undergraduate, General Education: Natural Science

Term

8-week II

Start

June 8, 2026

End

August 2, 2026

Course Number

BIOL 106-501

Credits

3

Exploration of how science works and the cellular organization, genetic inheritance and diversity of living things. Not available for credit toward a degree in biology.

Goal Setting for Coaching, Sports, and Life

Audience

Undergraduate: Sport Coaching and Athletics Leadership; Athletic Coaching Minor and Certificate, General Studies Degree

Term

8-week I

Start

May 18, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

SPRT 480-501

Credits

3

In this special topics course, students will explore practical and evidence-based strategies for goal setting in coaching, sports, and everyday life. Students will learn how to create meaningful individual and team goals, communicate them effectively, track progress, and make adjustments that boost performance, motivation, safety, and overall athlete well-being-on and off the field.

History of Ancient Philosophy

Audience

Undergraduate, General Education: Humanities

Term

8-week II

Start

June 8, 2026

End

August 2, 2026

Course Number

PHIL 211-501

Credits

3

History and development of ancient Greek philosophy including Presocratics, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and Hellenistic philosophers. Readings of primary sources in translation.

History of Modern Philosophy

Audience

Undergraduate and General Education: Humanities

Term

8-week I

Start

May 18, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

PHIL 313-501

Credits

3

Analysis of major philosophical issues of 17th and 18th Centuries from Descartes through Kant. Readings of primary sources in translation.

Human Biology

Audience

Undergraduate

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

BIOL 401

Credits

3

Provides an introduction to the structure and function of the human body, emphasizing how cells, tissues, and organ systems work together to maintain homeostasis. Students will explore major physiological processes, the scientific principles underlying human health, and the biological basis of common diseases. Through lectures and discussions the course emphasizes scientific inquiry, data interpretation, and the application of biology to real-world health and lifestyle decisions. This course is designed for non-majors seeking to build scientific literacy and an appreciation of how biology connects to everyday life.

Introduction to Applied Artificial Intelligence and Information Systems

Audience

Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) students

Term

8-week I

Start

May 18, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

ISM 250-501 and ISM 250-502

Credits

3

This course provides a gentle introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications in business. Students gain a broad understanding of AI techniques and learn to leverage large language models (LLMs) and other AI tools to enhance organizational productivity and innovation. The course is coding-free and designed to stimulate interest and develop literacy in AI, preparing students to become professional end users and decision-makers in AI integration and application.

Introduction to Health and Human Services Administration

Audience

Undergraduate and Graduate elective, Health and Human Services

Term

8-week I

Start

May 18, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

SOWK XXX

Credits

3

Students will explore the world of administration and leadership including budgeting; human resource management; marketing; strategic planning; fund development; grant writing; and board of directors’ responsibilities.

Leadership and Communication

Audience

Graduate

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

COMM 559-501

Credits

3

Prerequisite: Admitted to a four year degree granting college. Theories of leadership and communication across public, organizational, small group, interpersonal, and political contexts. Assessments tools provided. Guest speakers.

Men and Masculinities

Audience

Special Topics: Undergraduate elective for Criminal Justice, Communication, Women’s Studies, Nursing, and Psychology/DEI Certificate

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

SOCIO 365-501

Credits

3

In this special topics course, students will be introduced to major sociological theories that explain how masculinity is shaped by society, including concepts such as traditional (or “hegemonic”) masculinity, as well as newer frameworks. We will explore timely and sometimes controversial topics such as the rise of online male communities (including the “manosphere” and incel subcultures), the challenges young men face in education and mental health, and the impact of media and technology on male identity. The course also highlights positive developments, such as the emergence of “caring masculinity”—a concept that emphasizes strength through compassion, responsibility, and service to others. Students will consider how men can lead in ways that support strong families, healthy communities, and civic engagement.

Microbial You: The Science of the Human Microbiome

Audience

Undergraduate Special Topics, Biology, Biomedical Science, Biochemistry

Term

8-week I

Start

May 18, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

BIOL 295

Credits

3

Learn the science avoid the hype. This special topics course takes students into the cutting-edge world of microbiome science. The course highlights how microbial communities shape digestion, immunity, metabolism, and even mood and behavior. Students will explore the promise and pitfalls of microbiome-based therapies and how microbial science intersects with everyday decisions like food choice and antibiotic use. It invites students to critically analyze emerging discoveries while connecting them to personal health and societal issues.

Multicultural Theater

Audience

Undergraduate, General Education: Diversity of Perspectives

Term

5-week II

Start

July 13, 2026

End

August 16, 2026

Course Number

MUSEN XXX

Credits

3

A detailed examination of contemporary performances, performance texts, and theoretical writings that reference the history and experience of diverse communities of America and the world.

Parasitology

Audience

Undergraduate, Biology and Biomedical Science

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

BIOL 454-501

Credits

3

Principles of parasitism; host parasite interactions; important human and veterinary parasitic diseases; and control measures

Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Foundations

Audience

Special Topics: Graduate, Speech Language Pathology

Term

5 week II

Start

June 8, 2026

End

August 16, 2026

Course Number

SLPA 697-500

Credits

1

This special topics course is intended to provide advanced training in diagnostic and treatment skills related to pediatric dysphagia management.

Philosophy of World Religions

Audience

Undergraduate, General Education: Diversity of Perspectives

Term

8-week II

Start

June 8, 2026

End

August 2, 2026

Course Number

PHIL 200-501

Credits

3

A philosophical examination of the major religious traditions of the world including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, tribal religions, and others.

Professional and Career Issues in Psychology

Audience

Undergraduate: Required for all Psychology Majors

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

PSYC 105-501

Credits

1

Corequisite: PSYC:100. An overview of the field of psychology including educational requirements, career opportunities and professional issues for students considering a psychology major.

Race and Ethnic Relations

Audience

Undergraduate and Graduate, Sociology, Criminal Justice Studies, DEI Certificate in Psychology, Certificate in Conflict Transformation and Social Entrepreneurship

Term

8-week I

Start

May 18, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

SOCIO 421-501

Credits

3

Analysis of structure and dynamics of race and ethnic relations from a variety of perspectives emphasizing both historical and contemporary issues. Lecture

Regulatory Processes I

Audience

Covers basic History of FDA & Regulatory Pathways for Medical Devices, reviews medical device classification and submission pathways, combination products, and regulatory strategy and FDA meetings.

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

BMEN XXX

Credits

1

Basic BME design principles including medical device regulations and standards, FDA regulatory processes, and clinical trials.

Regulatory Processes II

Audience

Admission to the Medical Device Management and Regulation Certificate Program or BMEN 291

Term

5-week I

Start

June 8, 2026

End

July 12, 2026

Course Number

BMEN XXX

Credits

1

Second part of a three-part series of courses. Covers Design Controls and Quality Systems (GMP) with a focus on advertising and labeling and postmarket activities, risk management, usability, and medical device software regulation

Regulatory Processes III

Audience

Admission to the Medical Device Management and Regulation Certificate Program or BMEN 291

Term

5-week II

Start

July 13, 2026

End

August 16, 2026

Course Number

BMEN XXX

Credits

1

Third part of a three-part series of courses. Covers International Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Trials and GCP, regulation of drugs and biologics, the Unique Device Identifier and When to Submit a 510(k) for Changes to a Device.

Sleep

Audience

Undergraduate and Graduate Elective

Term

8-week II

Start Date

June 8, 2026

End Date

August 2, 2026

Course Number

SOWK XXX

Credits

1

This course addresses the significant role sleep has in physical and mental health. Related topics include the impact of sleep on body systems and disease management/development, bio-psycho-social-behavioral-environmental barriers to sleep, disordered sleep, and interventions for improved sleep. Understanding sleep from a lifestyle medicine perspective is emphasized.

Sustainability in Materials and Mechanical Systems

Audience

Ph.D. in Engineering, Polymer Engineering and Polymer Science, M.S. Biomedical, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering

Term

8-week II

Start

June 8, 2026

End

August 2, 2026

Course Number

COET-XXX

Credits

3

This graduate-level course explores the principles, methods, and applications of sustainable design in materials and mechanical systems. Students will critically analyze the environmental, economic, and social impacts of material selection, system design, manufacturing processes, and lifecycle management. Topics include green materials, renewable energy integration, life-cycle assessment (LCA), circular economy principles, sustainable manufacturing, energy efficiency in mechanical systems, and emerging technologies such as bio-inspired design and additive manufacturing.

Technology and Human Connection

Audience

Graduate, Master's in Strategic Communication

Term

5-week II

Start

July 13, 2026

End

August 16, 2026

Course Number

COMM XXX

Credits

3

This course explores how digital technologies shape human interaction, including interpersonal communication, relationships, and identity. Students will examine how foundational theories of interpersonal communication evolve in mediated contexts and will apply contemporary frameworks to online interaction. Emphasis will be placed on the communicative implications and practical application of constant connectivity including influences on self-presentation, relational maintenance, workplace and family relationships, and mental health.

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Summer Zips Eligible Courses

A Wonky Mirror. Cartoons: History, Development, and Reflection of Society

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

Addressing Determinants of Health as Healthcare Providers

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

American Government and Civic Literacy

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

Bark Side of Biology: Lessons from the Domestic Dog

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

Exploring Biology

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

Goal Setting for Coaching, Sports, and Life

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

History of Ancient Philosophy

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

History of Modern Philosophy

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

Human Biology

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits

Introduction to Applied Artificial Intelligence and Information Systems

Audience

Term

Start

End

Course Number

Credits