COUN 115: Academic Success and Leadership for Black Scholars in Higher Education

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2026
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Total Student Learning Hours: 162
Strongly Recommended: Strongly recommended for students currently enrolled in the Black Scholars program or Students Interested in joining the program.
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Proposed
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

This course explores the Black/African American experience in higher education through historical and cultural perspectives within the context of the United States. The course highlights the diverse experiences, contributions, and challenges of Black/African American students in education, encouraging awareness of how history, culture, and community shape academic and professional pathways. Students will examine strategies for academic and career success, including goal setting, identifying personal values and strengths, time management, career exploration, and leadership development. Through reflection, collaboration, and community engagement, students will enhance their leadership, resilience, and academic empowerment skills. 54 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • Examine the impact of race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, age, and ability towards leadership development, educational experiences, and agency within various cultural contexts and its impact on higher education for Black students.
  • Explore foundational theories, such as Black Identity Theory, Social Identity Theory and Intersectionality, to understand the complexities of identity development and the social factors influencing Black/ African American communities.
  • Prepare an individual educational and career plan by integrating information about one's abilities, values, and skills with an awareness of the academic and professional preparation requirements.
  • Prepare professional documents such as a resume and cover letter.
  • Prepare for personal statement of action related to educational and career goals.
  • Develop attitudes necessary for success emphasizing personal responsibility and leadership.
  • Develop and implement effective communication techniques that promote academic and professional success including effective instructor student relationships.
  • Demonstrate specific knowledge and information about particular groups and discuss life experiences, cultural heritage, family systems, and historical background of identified culturally different individuals.

Major Course Content

  1. Overview of Higher Education
    1. Historical Origins of higher education
    2. Black influence on education: Birth of HBCUS
    3. Higher education systems today
    4. Value of higher education
    5. College resources and support systems
  2. Historical and Cultural Perspectives

    1. Overview of the Black/African American experience in higher education in the United States.

    2. Exploration of key historical milestones, figures, and institutions that have shaped access and opportunity.

    3. Discussion of the role of culture, identity, and community in educational experiences and achievement

  3. Higher Education Today
    1. Self-esteem and awareness
    2. Motivation and goal setting
    3. Effective communication and collaboration
    4. Time management
    5. Learning styles and study tools
    6. Personal and educational values
    7. Micro-aggressions, stereotypes, and societal expectations within higher education
    8. Two-ness in higher education
  4. Leadership and Empowerment 

    1. Introduction to leadership theories and models relevant to college and community settings.

    2. Developing confidence, communication, and collaboration skills.

    3. Exploring how leadership and service contribute to academic and personal growth

  5. Resilience and Well-Being 

    1. Building mental and emotional resilience to overcome academic and personal challenges.

    2. Understanding wellness practices that support balance, motivation, and persistence in college.

    3. Cultivating supportive peer and mentor relationships that promote belonging and long-term success.

  6. Entering the workforce 
    1. Transitioning from college to the workforce
    2. The importance of a resume and cover letter 
    3. Networking, social media, and self-marketing 
    4. Work-life balance 
    5. Assertiveness and protection in the workplace 
    6. Job search and interviewing skills​

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

David, E.J.R., and Annie O. Derthick. The Psychology of Oppression. 2018.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Students will write reflective essays analyzing their academic and personal development throughout the course. Topics may include goal setting, leadership growth, resilience, or the influence of culture and community on their educational journey. Essays will demonstrate critical thinking, self-assessment, and connection to course concepts.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Students will attend a campus or community event related to Black student success, leadership, or cultural awareness (such as a guest lecture, cultural celebration, or leadership workshop). Afterward, they will submit a one- to two-page reflection connecting the event to course concepts on academic success, personal growth, and community engagement.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Online Education Lecture