Clemente Course In The Humanities
OUR MISSION
The Clemente Course in the Humanities provides a transformative educational experience for adults facing economic hardship and adverse circumstances. This program is at no cost to the student! The college humanities courses empower students to further their education and careers, become effective champions for themselves and their families, and engage actively in their communities' societal and civic lives.
SPRING 2026!
Our next course will begin in Spring 2026.
Applications are open now. We will have rolling admission!
Why Clemente Course in the Humanities?
Students learn alongside college professors who are experts in working with non-traditional college students. This is a way for you to ease into the structure of classroom learning and a great way to earn college credits at no cost.
Why NOT ATTEND THE COMMUNITY COLLEGES OR STATE COLLEGES THAT ARE OFFERING FREE TUITION?
Students are able to take advantage of no cost tuition, no cost supplies for the courses, and complimentary childcare while you in class! New Bedford students are also able to have transportation provided!
The Clemente Course in the Humanities provides tuition-free, college-level instruction for up to 6 college credits to those who are 17+ and are income eligible. Courses have included classes in literature, art history, moral philosophy, American history, writing, and public speaking from college professors. Instructors are chosen for their skill in the classroom and commitment to working with non-traditional learners. The Clemente Courses grants certificates of achievement to all students who finished the course and six college credits to those who completed it at a high level of academic performance.
History of the Clemente Course in the Humanities
Inspired by a visit to a correctional facility in 1995, writer Earl Shorris started a course with faculty of fellow scholars at the Roberto Clemente Family Guidance Center in the city’s Lower East Side neighborhood. Since 1996, over 10,000 students have benefited from the Clemente Course in the Humanities. Classes continue to take place across the U.S., and around the world.
For more information about the Clemente Course in the Humanities, email susanhagan.clemente@gmail.com