Stanford Continuing Studies Fall Courses 2023
Fall
2023
Letter From The Director
Letter from
the Director
Dear Friends,
W
e hope you are well and as eager as we are to launch into another academic year! We are excited to introduce our new digital publication, created in collaboration with our partners at VERTIQUL. While we will always fondly remember our beautiful print catalogs, we’ve enjoyed experimenting with this new format, featuring a scrolling design, allowing us to use more color, imagery, varied fonts and layouts, and interactive links. We hope these enhancements will make it easy and fun to explore our fall course offerings. Many thanks to our amazing team in marketing, catalog design, and editing—Susan Bush, Emma Walker, Hilary Becker, and Karen Coates—for their creativity and dedication in bringing this all together for us.
Also new for fall, we have an exciting lineup of courses created by our business and technology curriculum director, Angel Evan. These courses reflect trends, skills, and knowledge areas designed to help working professionals stay current and competitive and help us all gain a deeper understanding of the possibilities and challenges ahead as artificial intelligence breaks new ground in powerful applications like ChatGPT, Bing, and PaLM-2. Please consider taking one of our two newly created team-taught courses, “Speaker Series: AI the Great Disruption” and “Essential Business Skills: 8 Weeks, 4 Topics, 4 Expert Instructors.” Or, if you’re looking to explore AI from other vantage points, you might consider “Product Management in the AI Era,” or “Ethical Data and AI: Concepts and Tools for Responsible Decision-Making,” taught by Angel himself. For those eager to unlock AI’s creative potential, we are also offering “Beyond the Canvas: Exploring AI Art” taught by two of our beloved, long-time instructors, Joel Simon and Jane Kriss.
While it’s exciting to pursue these new possibilities and transformative technologies, it’s also important to appreciate the most classic and enduring elements of learning. We were so fortunate this past year to be able to bring many of our Continuing Studies courses back into the classrooms on the Stanford campus. There is something particularly magical and inspiring about attending our large-auditorium courses, which have featured speakers like David Kennedy, Rob Reich, Jim Steyer, and many more. Watching these lectures and conversations take place on stage, and interacting with instructors and fellow students in the same room, creates a special camaraderie and a shared sense of hope and optimism that extends well beyond the final class session. We’re also working this year to record more of our on-campus sessions, so if you miss one, you can still catch up on important content. We hope to see you back on campus soon!
Before signing off, I want to call out a few more courses that celebrate the classics. I cannot wait to sit in on Timothy Hampton’s course featuring one of my favorite singer-songwriters of all time, “Joni Mitchell: A Deep Dive into Six Classic Albums.” Our founding Continuing Studies director, Marsh McCall, returns this fall to teach “The Aeneid,” and Richard Powers will get us out on the dance floor with “1950s Dances: From Swing to Bop.”
Warmly,
Jennifer Deitz
Director & Associate Dean
Table of Contents
Featured Courses
Featured Courses
Shaping America’s Future: Exploring the Key Issues on Our Path to the 2024 Elections
James Steyer
Founder and CEO, Common Sense Media; Adjunct Professor, Stanford Graduate School of Education
Join us this fall for an immersive speaker series that delves into the core of American democracy. Prominent figures from politics, business, foreign policy, academia, and media will analyze the implications of the 2024 elections and the challenges our nation faces. Explore topics such as harnessing the power of AI responsibly, addressing climate change at various levels, strengthening commitments to democracy and voting rights, safeguarding youth from the impacts of social media and technology on mental health, and ensuring accountability for wealth disparities. This series will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the elections and the broader American political landscape.
Guest speakers include: Nicholas Kristof, Journalist and New York Times Op-Ed Columnist; Jessica Rosenworcel, Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission; Laurene Powell Jobs, Founder and Chair of Emerson Collective; Julian Castro, Former US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (Obama Administration); General Jim Mattis, Former US Secretary of Defense (Trump Administration) and retired US Marine Corps Four-Star General; Jennifer Doudna, Professor of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology at UC Berkeley; Cecilia Kang, Technology and Regulation Journalist at New York Times; Steve Schmidt, Political Analyst, longtime Republican Campaign Strategist; Vivek Murthy, Surgeon General of the United States (Biden Administration); Laurie Santos, Cognitive Scientist and Professor of Psychology at Yale; Gavin Newsom, Governor of California; Amy Klobuchar, US Senator from Minnesota; Bill McKibben, Founder of Third Act and Co-Founder and Senior Advisor of Climate Campaign Group 350.org; Jane Fonda, Actor and Activist; Tom Friedman, Commentator and New York Times Op-Ed Columnist; Neal Katyal, Former US Principal Deputy Solicitor General (Obama Administration).
Stanford Distinguished Faculty Lecture Series
Elaine Treharne
Roberta Bowman Denning Professor of Humanities, Professor of English, Senior Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, Stanford
David Eagleman
Adjunct Professor, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine
Ian Morris
Jean and Rebecca Willard Professor of Classics, Senior Fellow of the Stanford Archaeology Center
Christopher Gardner
Rehnborg Farquhar Professor of Medicine, Director of Nutrition Studies at the Stanford Prevention Research Center
How does the preservation of a culture’s heritage shape our understanding of the past? Why is the pursuit of novelty crucial for maintaining optimal brain health? What factors contribute to the unprecedented speed at which the global balance of power is shifting, surpassing any other period in the last 10,000 years of history? How can we enhance our well-being by adopting diets that promote a healthy gut microbiome?
Join us this fall for engaging and thought-provoking discussions that seek to address these pressing questions. Our Stanford Distinguished Faculty Lecture Series will feature talks from Elaine Treharne, David Eagleman, Ian Morris, and Christopher Gardner. Mark your calendars for Wednesdays in October as we explore timely topics, gain valuable insights, and engage in enlightening discussions.
20th-Century American Novel Masterpieces
Michael Krasny
Professor of English, Emeritus, SF State; Former Host of Forum, KQED Radio
The idea of a so-called Great American Novel has held sway as a boilerplate aspiration of readers and writers alike. But what kind of novel makes the grade? Join author and former radio host Michael Krasny on a deep dive into three literary American masterpieces: F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man, and Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon. Each is a brilliant thematic and stylistic work of literary art and great storytelling that takes us into the depths of understanding American history, culture, and language.
Essential Business Skills: 8 Weeks, 4 Topics, 4 Expert Instructors
Richard Kim
Co-Founder and Senior Systems Engineer, Aerospace Technical Services
Jason McDonald
Director, JM Internet Group
Matt Harrison
Principal Consultant and Corporate Trainer, MetaSnake
Tim Bombosch
Senior Program Manager, North America, Technical University of Munich (TUM)
In this first-of-its-kind course, four expert Stanford instructors will provide essential problem-solving skills for navigating today’s business and technology landscape. This innovative approach to learning will weave a single business challenge throughout four learning modules: decision analysis with systems engineer Richard Kim, digital marketing concepts with internet marketing consultant Jason McDonald, data analysis using Python with corporate consultant Matthew Harrison, and project management with analyst Tom Bombosch. Students will come away with an action plan for bringing data and decisions to life.
Live Longer, Live Better: Exploring the Science of Aging
Ronjon Nag
Adjunct Professor in Genetics, Stanford School of Medicine; Visiting Fellow, Stanford Center for the Study of Language and Information; President, R42 Group
Artem Trotsyuk
GSK.ai Ethics Fellow, Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford School of Medicine
Is aging a disease that can ultimately be cured? This course will provide students with a fundamental understanding of the science and technology of aging. Led by inventor and entrepreneur Ronjon Nag and biomedical ethicist Artem Trotsyuk, the course will delve into theories such as “programmed longevity,” which suggests genes determine lifespan, and “wear and tear,” which attributes aging to the accumulation of cell damage. Students will learn about gender in aging, innovations to improve quality of life, and technology and AI that can help us live longer.
Write a Novel in 30 Days: No Critics, No Fear
Samina Ali
Author
With a healthy dose of determination and a supportive community, you can write a novel in a month. Accompany author Samina Ali on this journey through National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) to fast-draft your work, from start to finish. The process will be generative, playful, and uncritical, beginning with two weeks of plotting and planning before tackling your goal of writing 1,500 words each weekday. The course will include daily prompts, two weekly live online sessions, an accountability thread, and the option of sharing your work in small groups.
US-China Relations: From Cold War to Cold Shoulder
Thomas Fingar
Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center Fellow, Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, Stanford
The US-China relationship is often described as the most important in the world. It’s also considered dangerously strained. Many experts say China’s military modernization, mercantilism, and authoritarianism pose deep concerns for the US, while China sees US intervention in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea as threats to its sovereignty. Students will study four distinct periods, tracing the evolution of US-China relations and future trajectory, amid narratives that are often exaggerated—or wrong.
Beyond the Canvas: Exploring AI Art
Joel Simon
Documentary and Fine Art Photographer
Jane Kriss
Artist
What is this magical new tool of AI art? As WIRED magazine describes these “engines of wow,” AI algorithms can now generate images based on simple words. In this course, photographer Joel Simon and artist Jane Kriss will introduce students to the incredible potential of AI as a creative tool. Students will explore the human artist-computer partnership and learn techniques for creating photographic and painterly images using AI language models. The course will include hands-on exercises and collaborative discussion.
Image: ©️ MidJourney and Jane Kriss
A Coffee Lover’s Adventure: Discover the History, Culture, and Craft of Your Favorite Drink
Kenneth Thomas
Coffee Writer, Educator, and Speaker; Owner and Head Roaster, Umble Coffee Co.
How much do you know about the magical black elixir that fuels your day? Coffee is a culture, a science, and an art. In this course, Umble Coffee founder Kenneth Thomas will share histories, mythical tales, and secrets of coffee, from bean to cup. The course will cover coffee’s origins, types of beans and how they grow, challenges and opportunities for farmers in the global market, and the etiquette of ordering anything from a cortado to a nitro. During optional online Saturday sessions, students can brew and taste with the instructor.
Joni Mitchell: A Deep Dive into Six Classic Albums
Timothy Hampton
Aldo Scaglione and Marie M. Burns Distinguished Professor of Comparative Literature and French, UC Berkeley
Joni Mitchell’s music defies definition. She is the bridge between the post-World War II American folksinger and today’s generation of multimedia-based musicians. This course, presented by professor and historian Timothy Hampton, will zero in on six recordings that marked Mitchell’s transition from ethereal folk performer to bad-ass jazz/rock innovator who has continued to influence subsequent generations, from Prince to Taylor Swift. Using titles such as Ladies of the Canyon, Blue, Hejira, and more, the course will delve into her lyric style and unique approach to composition, tuning, and sound.
Revolutionary Avant-Gardes: Episodes in 19th-Century European Art
Natalia Lauricella
Lecturer, Department of Art & Art History, Stanford
The tumult of 19th-century Europe gave rise to a new era in art. Join art historian Natalia Lauricella on an investigation spanning the French Revolution to the turn-of-the-century rise of modern art markets. The period’s cultural upheaval, seismic political revolutions, imperial expansions, and developments led artists like Goya, Turner, Manet, and Cassatt to experiment with new materials, methods, and subjects. Students will come away with an understanding of how canonical narratives of 19th-century European art have shaped our understanding of modern art—and modern life.
Image: Rain, Steam, and Speed – The Great Western Railway / J. M. W. Turner
Speaker Series: AI the Great Disruption
Ronjon Nag
The Entrepreneur
Paul Weinstein
The Investor
Michael Snyder
The Researcher
Jennifer King
The Policymaker
Opinions on AI are as diverse as the underlying data used to create it. This course will assemble expert speakers from across Stanford to examine AI through the lenses of entrepreneurship, engineering, research, policy, and more. We’re not aiming to create consensus—rather, to provide a mosaic of perspectives to help inform your personal opinion of AI. Speakers will include inventor and entrepreneur Ronjon Nag, genomicist Michael Snyder, data policy fellow Jennifer King, and investor Paul Weinstein.
Liberal Arts & Sciences
Liberal Arts & Sciences
Immerse yourself in the liberal arts to awaken your creativity, enhance your critical thinking abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of our complex world. From fine arts to film, language to literature, philosophy to history, explore a rich array of courses in the liberal arts and sciences.
Archaeology
Cultures of Northern Europe: The Celts, Franks, and Vikings
Patrick Hunt
Former Director, Stanford Alpine Archaeology Project; Research Associate, Archeoethnobotany, Institute of EthnoMedicine
Uncover the captivating histories and legacies of dynamic peoples like the Vikings, Celts, and Frankish Empire in this archaeological exploration course. Dive into their fascinating narratives and gain insights into their warrior traditions, artistic expressions, and political influence.
On Campus
Architecture
Beyond Sandstone and Tile: Icons of Stanford Architecture
Sapna Marfatia
Campus Preservation Architect; Director of Architecture, Planning and Design, Stanford
Stanford has one of the most beautiful and recognizable campuses in the world. This course, led by Stanford’s director of architecture, will examine the campus’s development over more than a century through an in-depth architectural exploration of four iconic buildings: Memorial Church, Hoover Tower, Cantor Arts Center, and Green Library.
On Campus
Art History
Revolutionary Avant-Gardes: Episodes in 19th-Century European Art
Natalia Lauricella
Lecturer, Department of Art & Art History, Stanford
From the French Revolution to the rise of the modern art market, this course immerses you in the social and cultural upheaval that shaped the era. Delve into the works of key artists, witness the experimentation with new materials and subjects, and challenge conventional narratives of European art history.
Online
Classics
The Aeneid
Marsh McCall
Professor of Classics, Emeritus; Founder and Dean Emeritus of Continuing Studies, Stanford
Embark on an in-depth study of the Aeneid, ancient Rome’s national epic poem, its greatest literary creation, and arguably the most influential text from Greece and Rome in the Western cultural tradition. Following Aeneas from Troy to Rome, become immersed in Vergil’s powerful themes of victory, defeat, love, betrayal, and the intertwining of national destiny and individual helplessness.
Online
Shell Shock: The World Wars in Literature, Art, and Film (An MLA-Style Course)
Miles Osgood
Lecturer, Structured Liberal Education (SLE), Stanford
This course aims to introduce those interested in pursuing a degree in the Stanford Master of Liberal Arts program to the kind of seminar they would likely encounter in the program. In this course, we will consider not only how novels, films, and artworks captured the chaos of two world wars, but also how writers and artists took up arms themselves in political and cultural conflicts.
On Campus
Current Events
US-China Relations: From Cold War to Cold Shoulder
Thomas Fingar
Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center Fellow, Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, Stanford
This course will examine the complex relationship between the United States and China, tracing its evolution from the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 to the present day. Through a critical analysis of the perceptions, priorities, and policies of both nations, the course sheds light on the underlying factors that have shaped this relationship over time.
Online
Shaping America’s Future: Exploring the Key Issues on Our Path to the 2024 Elections
James Steyer
Founder and CEO, Common Sense Media; Adjunct Professor, Stanford Graduate School of Education
Join us for an extraordinary journey into the heart of American democracy as we explore critical issues facing our nation in the run-up to the 2024 U.S. Elections. This captivating speaker series will feature some of America’s most prominent leaders in politics, business, foreign policy, academia, and the media.
Guest speakers include: Nicholas Kristof, Journalist and New York Times Op-Ed Columnist; Jessica Rosenworcel, Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission; Laurene Powell Jobs, Founder and Chair of Emerson Collective; Julian Castro, Former US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (Obama Administration); General Jim Mattis, Former US Secretary of Defense (Trump Administration) and retired US Marine Corps Four-Star General; Jennifer Doudna, Professor of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology at UC Berkeley; Cecilia Kang, Technology and Regulation Journalist at New York Times; Steve Schmidt, Political Analyst, longtime Republican Campaign Strategist; Vivek Murthy, Surgeon General of the United States (Biden Administration); Laurie Santos, Cognitive Scientist and Professor of Psychology at Yale; Gavin Newsom, Governor of California; Amy Klobuchar, US Senator from Minnesota; Bill McKibben, Founder of Third Act and Co-Founder and Senior Advisor of Climate Campaign Group 350.org; Jane Fonda, Actor and Activist; Tom Friedman, Commentator and New York Times Op-Ed Columnist; Neal Katyal, Former US Principal Deputy Solicitor General (Obama Administration).
Online and On Campus
Dance Studies
1950s Dances: From Swing to Bop
Richard Powers
Lecturer in Dance, Stanford
It’s never too late to dance like a 1950s teenager! Learn a wide variety of fun and easy teen dances from the 1950s, including Rock ’n’ Roll Swing, the Stroll, Bop, Chalypso (teen cha-cha), the Madison, and some of the very first line dances.
On Campus
Film Studies
Hitchcock and the Censors
John Billheimer
Author; Researcher
Explore the evolution of censorship in Britain and America through Alfred Hitchcock’s thrilling masterpieces. Examine how Hitchcock’s films were shaped by the demands of censors and witness the director’s remarkable ability to navigate censorship and create a legacy of unforgettable movies.
On Campus
Great American Crime Films: From Scarface to Reservoir Dogs
Elliot Lavine
Film Historian; Filmmaker
Embark on a captivating journey through the evolution of American crime film, tracing its roots from the Great Depression to the chaos of World War II, and exploring its influence in the dawn of the Atomic Age and beyond. Delve into the intense performances of legendary actors including James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart, Edward G. Robinson, Robert Mitchum, Christopher Walken, and Harvey Keitel, as they bring these gripping tales to life.
Online
The 2000s On-Screen: Cinematic Highlights of a Turbulent Decade
Mick LaSalle
Film Critic, Hearst Newspapers
Immerse yourself in a cinematic journey through a decade of remarkable films in just 10 weeks. From the memorable beginnings of the 2000s with Almost Famous, Ivans xtc., and Urbania to the powerful culmination in 2009 with Quentin Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds and Hollywood’s portrayal of economic struggles in Up in the Air, witness the evolution of cinema during this transformative period.
Online
History
Greece and Rome: A New Account of Antiquity
Michael Shanks
Professor of Classics; Professor of Archaeology, Stanford
Gary Devore
Archaeologist
Step into the ancient world and challenge the myths and preconceptions surrounding Greco-Roman history. Explore beyond the conventional narratives of civilization’s rise and fall, dynastic conflicts, and military conquests. Through a thousand years of history, from 700 BCE to 450 CE, gain fresh insights into what truly shaped the motor of ancient civilizations.
Online
The History of Wine
Patrick Hunt
Former Director, Stanford Alpine Archaeology Project; Research Associate, Archeoethnobotany, Institute of EthnoMedicine
Journey through the rich history of wine in this immersive course that spans civilizations and continents. Explore the origins of winemaking in the Neolithic Near East to the contributions of the Greeks and Romans, the legacy of French wines, and the evolution of California viticulture.
Online
Languages
Beginning French
Heather Howard
Lecturer in French, Stanford
Designed for students with little to no knowledge of French, this course focuses on acquiring basic communication skills using a creative, all-in-French, conversational approach in a fun and relaxed class atmosphere.
On Campus
Beginning Italian
Giovanni Tempesta
Lecturer in Italian, Stanford
Learn how to speak Italian and follow simple Italian conversations in this introductory course. Carry out conversations on everyday subjects such as work, personal interests, family, and friends.
Online
Law & Policy
Constitutional Crises from the Founding to the Present
William H. Simon
William W. and Gertrude H. Saunders Professor Emeritus of Law, Stanford; Arthur Levitt Professor Emeritus of Law, Columbia
From the adoption of the Constitution to modern-day controversies including the Civil War, Reconstruction, the civil rights movement, Watergate, and the Trump administration, discover the enduring impact of these conflicts on constitutional doctrine and the delicate balance between power and governance.
Online
Literature
20th-Century American Novel Masterpieces
Michael Krasny
Professor of English, Emeritus, SF State; Former Host of Forum, KQED Radio
Step into the world of three remarkable American novels that have cemented their place in the nation’s literary canon. Experience the brilliance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s captivating The Great Gatsby, Ralph Ellison’s thought-provoking Invisible Man, and Toni Morrison’s lyrical and profound Song of Solomon.
Online
Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights
Rebecca Richardson
Advanced Lecturer, Program in Writing and Rhetoric, Stanford
Embark on a captivating exploration of two extraordinary masterpieces crafted by the talented Brontë sisters: Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. These influential works delve into the historical backdrop of political upheaval, empire expansion, and evolving gender roles, and we will unveil the enduring impact of these sisters on modern literature.
Online
Music Studies
Joni Mitchell: A Deep Dive into Six Classic Albums
Timothy Hampton
Aldo Scaglione and Marie M. Burns Distinguished Professor of Comparative Literature and French, UC Berkeley
Dive deep into the extraordinary world of Joni Mitchell, an artist who defies conventions and pushes boundaries. Join us on a captivating journey through Mitchell’s artistic evolution, examining six groundbreaking albums that showcase her remarkable transition from ethereal folk to daring and innovative jazz/rock compositions.
Online
The Evolution of Early Jazz
Michael Galisatus
Lecturer, Department of Music, Stanford; Director, Stanford Jazz Orchestra
Immerse yourself in the transformative power of jazz, and gain a deep appreciation for its origins, significance, and enduring legacy. Discover why jazz continues to resonate as a cultural cornerstone, inspiring generations of musicians and shaping the artistic landscape to this day.
On Campus
Music Studio
Play the Ukulele: Rock, Pop, and Folk
Greg Vaughan
Instructor, Gryphon Stringed Instruments
Unleash your inner musician and dive into the enchanting world of the ukulele. This introductory course will equip you with the essential skills to play this fun instrument, from mastering uke chords and strumming techniques to exploring basic fingerpicking and rhythm.
On Campus
Philosophy
The Origins and Evolution of Modern Philosophy: From Descartes to Heidegger and Wittgenstein
Josef Chytry
Senior Adjunct Professor in Critical Studies, California College of the Arts
From the groundbreaking ideas of Descartes and the empiricists to the profound insights of Kant and the existentialists, this course will explore the evolution of modern philosophy and the profound questions it raises. Gain a deep appreciation for the philosophers who challenged conventions, shattered paradigms, and continue to influence our thinking today.
Online
Psychology
Unlocking the Mind: An Overview of Modern Psychotherapy Approaches
Connor Adams
Clinical Assistant Professor, Stanford School of Medicine
Navigate the diverse landscape of psychotherapy with ease through this comprehensive course. Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself, aiming to provide therapy to others, or assisting loved ones in finding the right therapist, this course will equip you with the foundational knowledge to make informed decisions as we explore major therapeutic approaches such as CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing.
On Campus
Manage Emotions Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Skills
Natalie Solomon
Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine
Discover the transformative power of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in understanding and managing emotions. This course explores the principles and theory behind CBT, equipping you with invaluable tools to navigate distressing emotions and break free from negative thought patterns.
Online
Science
Quantum Physics: At the Dawn of a New Era in Science
Eugenio Bottacini
Associate Professor in Astrophysics, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Padua
Delve into the captivating journey of quantum physics, where scientific pioneers shattered traditional views to reveal a new reality. Explore the solid foundations of classical science and witness how brilliant minds like Einstein, Heisenberg, and Schrödinger revolutionized our understanding of the world, bridging the gap between theory and experimentation.
Online
Introduction to Anatomy at the Stanford School of Medicine: Exploring Organs of the Neck
Bruce Fogel
Adjunct Professor, Division of Clinical Anatomy, Department of Surgery, Stanford School of Medicine
Karuna Dewan
Associate Professor of Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University Health; Former Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Stanford
Explore cadaver specimens and digital technologies used by Stanford medical students and surgeons in the treatment and care of patients. You’ll learn how to identify anatomical structures and common clinical conditions affecting the neck, such as thyroglossal cysts, thyroid nodules, and cancer.
On Campus
Cancer Biology: Recent Developments in Research and Treatment
David Armenta
COLLEGE Lecturer, Civic, Liberal, and Global Education, Stanford
Explore the captivating world of cancer biology and discover breakthroughs in research and treatments. Develop a strong foundation in cell biology, understand how cancer functions, and explore the potential of scientific advancements to halt its progression in the future.
Online
Stanford Distinguished Faculty Lecture Series
Stanford Distinguished Faculty Lecture Series
Elaine Treharne
Roberta Bowman Denning Professor of Humanities, Professor of English, Senior Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, Stanford
David Eagleman
Adjunct Professor, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford School of Medicine
Ian Morris
Jean and Rebecca Willard Professor of Classics, Senior Fellow of the Stanford Archaeology Center
Christopher Gardner
Rehnborg Farquhar Professor of Medicine, Director of Nutrition Studies at the Stanford Prevention Research Center
Join us for our Stanford Distinguished Faculty Lecture Series. Each Wednesday in October, Stanford faculty will present timely research and discussion that seek to address these pressing issues: How does the preservation of a culture’s heritage shape how the past is understood? Why is seeking novelty so critical to our brain health? Why is the global balance of power shifting faster than at any other time in 10,000 years of history? How can we optimize health through diets that benefit the gut microbiome?
Online
Art Studio
Art Studio
Reignite your capacity for creativity in an art studio course. From drawing and photography to creating your own podcast or video, our courses will help you develop your skills and find inspiration that will truly elevate your creative expression.
Audio, Video & Film
From Idea to Launch: Create and Produce Your Own Podcast
Ryan Campos
Audio Specialist; Sound Artist
Learn how to create your own successful podcast! This course will cover topics such as podcast structure, content formats, equipment options for different budgets, hosting platforms, and maximizing exposure and profitability. Gain hands-on experience in recording and editing techniques and come away from the course with a trailer, a five-minute pilot episode, and an outline for a complete podcast series.
Online
Shoot, Edit, and Produce Your Own Video with the iPhone
Cielo de la Paz
Photographer; Filmmaker
Tap into your creative potential in videography using only your iPhone. Acquire the skills to capture, edit, and produce high-quality videos with your smartphone. Explore essential apps, accessories, and techniques for composition, storytelling, and enhancing your videos with music, transitions, and filters.
On Campus
Drawing, Painting & Mixed Media
Beginning Drawing
Trevor Tubelle
Artist
Gain the skills necessary to begin your own drawing practice. Within a supportive, friendly, and sociable atmosphere, we will approach drawing as a powerful method of expression involving physical dexterity, mental flexibility, and emotional courage.
On Campus
Abstract Drawing
Trevor Tubelle
Artist
Break free from realism and delve into the imaginative and conceptual world of abstraction. In this course, we will use a variety of strategies—from highly structured plans to wildly spontaneous accidents—to examine what it means to create abstract art.
Online
Drawing the Realistic Figure
John Robert Peck
Instructor, Triton Museum of Art
Join us on a journey where we strive to master the art of capturing the human form with unparalleled realism, harnessing people’s essence, strength, and elegance. Skillfully sketch the human figure as you immerse yourself in the world of observation, where every stroke of the pencil unveils a deeper understanding of our intricate selves.
Online
Art and Anatomy: Drawing the Human Hand
Lauren Toomer
Lecturer, Department of Art & Art History and Division of Clinical Anatomy, Stanford
Based on the Art and Anatomy courses for Stanford medical students, this course is a unique opportunity to explore the human hand with the eye of an artist. Plastic models, dry bones, cadaveric specimens, and digital images will be our models as we explore traditional and contemporary drawing techniques for representing the internal and external structure of hands, perhaps even honing our own individual style.
On Campus
Explorations in Mixed Media: Unleashing Creativity through Daily Practice
Michael Azgour
Artist
This course is designed for students of all levels who want to enrich themselves by having a creative art practice in their daily lives. Unlike a traditional art studio course, this five-week intensive will guide students through daily exercises in which the focus is spending more time making and less time analyzing.
Online
Calligraphy Design and Norse Runes
Ann Miller
Artist
This course is a unique opportunity to learn more deeply about ancient runes and how to use them, following basic design principles and a classic grid method that will help shape your artistic footprint in a fun, engaging, and inspiring way. We will take an in-depth look at the history of Norse runes, including Elder and Younger Futhark and the Ogham alphabet, learning their names, meanings, phonetic equivalents, and importance in contemporary design.
Online
Visual Storytelling: An Exploration of Graphic Novels
Mark Fearing
Author; Illustrator
Graphic novels are having their moment. We will explore all aspects of the graphic novel, beginning with a brief investigation of the history of visual storytelling dating back millennia. We’ll examine various cultural traditions that have historical relevance in defining today’s graphic novels. And we’ll cover practical considerations: What is the market for graphic novels? How does one query graphic novel publishers?
Online
Painting from Observation
Katie Hawkinson
Artist; Instructor, College of Environmental Design, UC Berkeley
Learning to paint consists of two main endeavors: knowing how to manipulate the medium, and knowing what subjects to paint. These two aspects are best learned in tandem, whether the approach is realism or abstraction. In this course, we will paint from still lives, interior spaces, and the landscape, learning how to make strong and compelling compositions, mix colors, work with light and shadow, and create texture.
Online
Photography
Introduction to iPhoneography: Using Your Smartphone to Make Extraordinary Images
Yoni Mayeri
Photographer; iPhoneographer
Unleash the creative potential of your iPhone camera in this hands-on course that teaches you how to transform your ordinary snapshots into extraordinary photographs. Explore the built-in Photos app for editing and enhancing images, optimize the features of the native camera, and discover third-party editing applications and accessories to elevate your images.
Online
iPhoneography: The Next Level for Advanced Shooting and Editing
Yoni Mayeri
Photographer; iPhoneographer
Advance your iPhone photography skills in this course designed for those with prior shooting and editing experience with their smartphone. We will dive into advanced photo editing and creative image creation using a variety of apps, explore macro and close-up photography, practice dynamic portrait techniques, and more.
On Campus
Capturing the Action: Sports Photography
John Todd
Photographer
Discover the artistry behind sports photography in this course that goes beyond capturing the action to evoke the emotion and drama of the game. Explore the principles of timing, camera settings, lighting, and software necessary to create compelling sports images. Outdoor class photography opportunities will include Stanford Athletics events and surfing at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz.
On Campus
Digital Photography Basics
Joel Simon
Documentary and Fine Art Photographer
John Lambert
Photographer
Unlock the creative potential of your digital camera with this introductory course that covers both the artistic and technical aspects of photography. Learn the fundamentals of storytelling, composition, and light, while gaining a deep understanding of your camera’s features and their creative applications.
Online
Beyond the Canvas: Exploring AI Art
Joel Simon
Documentary and Fine Art Photographer
Jane Kriss
Artist
AI art. What is this magical new tool, and can it enrich our creative process? For the first time ever, computers are able to generate images based on simple word descriptions. In this introductory course, we will explore the potential of AI as a creative instrument and help you develop the skills to produce your own AI-generated art.
Online
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Indulge your taste buds in a culinary journey through our Food & Drink courses. From wine and coffee to chocolate and cheese, our courses are designed to broaden your knowledge and feed your curiosity.
Food & Drink Courses
A Coffee Lover’s Adventure: Discover the History, Culture, and Craft of Your Favorite Drink
Kenneth Thomas
Coffee Writer, Educator, and Speaker; Owner and Head Roaster, Umble Coffee Co.
Many of us cannot start our day without a cup of coffee, but how much do you really know about the drink that fuels your creativity and productivity? Coffee is more than just a beverage—it’s a culture, a science, and an art. Discover the fascinating stories, secrets, and skills behind coffee, from bean to cup.
Online
From Kombucha to Kimchi: A Hands-On Journey into the World of Fermentation
Trevor Ring
Founder, Community Cultures
Welcome to the fascinating world of fermentation and microbial transformation! Learn the fundamentals of fermentation and master specific techniques for creating mouthwatering delights such as kombucha, wild-fermented soda, kimchi, lacto-fermented kosher dill pickles, and shio koji marinade.
Online
The History of Wine
Patrick Hunt
Former Director, Stanford Alpine Archaeology Project; Research Associate, Archeoethnobotany, Institute of EthnoMedicine
Journey through the rich history of wine in this immersive course that spans civilizations and continents. Explore the origins of winemaking in the Neolithic Near East to the contributions of the Greeks and Romans, the legacy of French wines, and the evolution of California viticulture.
Online
Wellness & Health
Wellness & Health
Prioritize your health and wellness with courses designed to help you build healthy habits and support your mental and emotional well-being. Explore courses taught by psychologists, physicians, health advisors, and other experts in their field.
Emotional & Mental Health
The Art of WFH: Creating a Calm and Inspiring Workspace
Olga Trusova
Founder, Airis Mer; Author
Desire a thoughtfully designed home office that not only looks appealing but also promotes productivity and tranquility? Inspired by design thinking principles from Stanford’s d.school, this course will prepare you to transform your work-from-home space into a calm, inspiring, and energizing environment.
Online
Life Design
Designing the Life We Want: Self-Renewal in Fall
Mark Nicolson
Founder, Nicolson Group; Co-Founder, With/In Collaborative
Embark on a transformative journey where you’ll discover the power within to create the impact you’ve always desired. In this immersive course, we blend psychological principles, movement practices, and ancient wisdom traditions to cultivate a supportive and encouraging community of individuals committed to personal growth.
On Campus
Your Next Life Chapter: A Design Thinking and Behavioral Science–Based Approach
Raj Bhargava
Lecturer, Graduate School of Education, Stanford; Entrepreneur
Drawing on the latest behavioral science research, we’ll delve into the meaning of life, mindsets, vulnerability, and habits. Through design thinking, collaborative exercises, and the integration of artificial intelligence, you’ll develop a clear and measurable plan, equipped with the tools to overcome barriers and embark on an exciting new chapter of your life.
Online
Longevity
Live Longer, Live Better: Exploring the Science of Aging
Ronjon Nag
Adjunct Professor in Genetics, Stanford School of Medicine; Visiting
Fellow, Stanford Center for the Study of Language and Information;
President, R42 Group
Fellow, Stanford Center for the Study of Language and Information;
President, R42 Group
Artem Trotsyuk
GSK.ai Ethics Fellow, Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford School of Medicine
Embark on a captivating exploration of the human lifespan and the science behind aging. Discover groundbreaking research programs at Stanford and beyond, and explore innovative technologies that can enhance the quality of life as we age, from advanced monitoring and predictive diets to artificial intelligence assistants.
Online
Nutrition
Sports Nutrition
Clyde Wilson
Research Associate, Biochemistry, UC San Francisco
Maximize the potential of your exercise regimen with the powerful combination of nutrition and fitness. Join us in this comprehensive course where we explore the impact of nutrition on exercise benefits, including weight loss, immune strength, and overall fitness, plus create your own sports nutrition program.
Online
Physical Health & Well-Being
Introduction to Autoimmune Diseases
Tobi Schmidt
Immunotherapy Researcher; Personal Health Educator
Discover the intricate world of autoimmune diseases and gain insights into the causes behind the immune system’s attack on healthy tissues. Learn about cutting-edge immunotherapies and lifestyle interventions that can assist in managing autoimmune diseases, providing you with a holistic understanding of this complex field.
Online
Creative Writing
Creative Writing
Whether you’re just beginning to write or putting the finishing touches on your first novel, our writing courses offer expert instruction from accomplished authors, individual attention, and supportive feedback. Choose from courses in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, memoir, magazine writing, travel writing, the short story, and more.
Creative Nonfiction & Memoir
Personal Essay Workshop: Excavate Your Story
Rose Whitmore
Author; Former Jones Lecturer and Former Stegner Fellow, Stanford
Unleash the power of your personal experiences and emotions through captivating nonfiction writing. This course explores the art of storytelling, teaching you how to capture the essence of significant moments and craft immersive narratives that engage and resonate with readers.
Online
Personal Essay Workshop: How to Land in The New York Times “Modern Love” Column
Liza Monroy
Author
Dreaming of seeing your personal essay grace the prestigious pages of The New York Times “Modern Love” column? Look no further. This course offers an in-depth exploration of “Modern Love” essays, dissecting their mechanics, uncovering the editor’s preferences, and guiding you in molding your stories to fit the column’s unique form.
Online
Creative Nonfiction Book: From Idea to Proposal
Amy Ettinger
Author; Journalist; Essayist
Unlock the secrets to crafting a compelling book proposal in this transformative workshop. Whether you’re exploring the potential of your idea or seeking guidance on structuring and refining your existing project, this course provides invaluable insights into the competitive world of nonfiction publishing.
On Campus
Memoir Workshop: From Catharsis to Craft
Monica Wesolowska
Author; Editor
Embark on an impactful memoir writing journey and discover the art of creating narratives that deeply resonate with readers. Learn to delve into your experiences, master narrative techniques, and emerge with a compelling truth that captivates and moves your audience.
Online
Memoir Workshop: Making the Skeletons Dance
Anne Zimmerman
Author
Learn how to craft compelling family memoirs in this all-levels course as we uncover personal and universal truths through the intimate study of family. From excavating cherished memories to authentically rendering complex characters, you’ll gain the essential tools to create captivating narratives.
Online
Memoir Workshop: For Manuscripts in Progress
John W. Evans
Phyllis Draper Lecturer of Creative Nonfiction and Former Stegner Fellow, Stanford
Prepare to unlock the secrets of compelling storytelling, ignite your creative spark, and embark on a path of personal and artistic development like never before. Through an immersive exploration of essays across diverse memoir subgenres, excerpts from renowned memoir books, and a curated memoir course reader, you will not only deepen your understanding and appreciation of memoir but also nurture your growth as a skilled and imaginative writer.
Online
Genre
Speculative Fiction: Writing Beyond Reality
Yohanca Delgado
Stegner Fellow in Fiction, Stanford
Discover the art of crafting immersive worlds and compelling characters through the perfect blend of literary finesse and imaginative storytelling. Drawing inspiration from literary giants such as Borges, Butler, Murakami, and more, you’ll hone your craft, enhance your sensory instincts, and bring your own works of speculative fiction to life.
Online
Narrative Craft
Crafting Dialogue in Fiction
Nicole Caplain Kelly
Former Stegner Fellow, Stanford
Craft authentic and compelling speech that brings fictional characters to life, while exploring the power of unsaid words. With renowned authors and playwrights as your guides, you’ll learn when and how to incorporate direct speech into your fiction, gain insights on creating stakes in character journeys, and develop your own scenes through generative exercises.
Online
Writing the Literary Page-Turner: How to Cultivate Suspense in Fiction
Rose Himber Howse
Stegner Fellow in Fiction, Stanford; Former Steinbeck Fellow, San Jose State
Get ready to captivate readers and keep them on the edge of their seats. In this course, explore the delicate balance between plot twists and nuanced characterization, and discover how literary authors like Katie Kitamura, Ottessa Moshfegh, and Andre Dubus III weave suspense into their narratives.
Online
Plotting Outside the Box: Alternative Story Structures
Nina Schuyler
Adjunct Professor, University of San Francisco
Step outside the confines of traditional storytelling and unlock the boundless creativity of alternative plot structures in this eye-opening course. Explore the power of associative, episodic, expository, argumentative, and other innovative plot forms, as used by acclaimed authors like Nicole Krauss, Stuart Dybek, Jenny Offill, and Isaac Bashevis Singer.
Online
Bringing Characters to Life: Heroes, Villains, and Ordinary People
Ellen Sussman
Author
Delve into the art of crafting complex and compelling characters that resonate with readers long after the final page. This course is designed to empower you to create memorable characters in both fiction and memoir, inviting readers to invest deeply in their captivating stories.
On Campus
Novel
Novel Workshop: The Narrative Journey
Lynn Stegner
Author
Explore every stage of the novel-writing process, from selecting the perfect narrative perspective to crafting engaging dialogue and maintaining a captivating plot. Through the study of celebrated novelists’ interviews and the workshop of student work, you’ll gain valuable insights and guidance to bring your own narrative vision to life.
Online
Novel Workshop: For Manuscripts in Progress
Sarah Stone
Author
Strengthen your novel-writing skills as we explore the art of crafting compelling beginnings and endings, maintaining narrative momentum, developing complex characters, and structuring plot. With inspiring readings by acclaimed authors and in-class writing exercises, you’ll receive expert guidance and constructive feedback to overcome obstacles and gain a deeper understanding of your novel.
Online
Write a Novel in 30 Days: No Critics, No Fear
Samina Ali
Author
Yes, you can write a novel in just one month! With daily prompts, weekly craft lessons, and live online sessions, this course will guide and inspire you as you fast-draft your way through National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). Embrace the generative and supportive environment, connect with fellow writers, and celebrate your achievement as you set your sights on completing your first draft.
Online
Poetry
Poetry Workshop: Write Evocative Poetry by Listening to Your Instincts
Keith S. Wilson
Former Stegner Fellow in Poetry, Stanford; Creative Writing Faculty, Spalding University and School of the Art Institute of Chicago
We all aspire to write exceptional poems, but what should we do when our cherished lines don’t resonate with others? Moreover, what if we struggle to identify our most impactful lines? This course provides invaluable guidance for writers of all levels, emphasizing the crucial skill of crafting contemporary poetry by strengthening and embracing our distinct voices that lie at the core of our uniqueness.
Online
Poetry Workshop: Writing Poems of Love and Praise
Zeina Hashem Beck
Poet; Essayist
Explore the transformative power of poetry as we navigate the complexities of life and find beauty amid pain. Drawing inspiration from renowned poets such as Aracelis Girmay, Ada Limón, and Ross Gay, we will delve into themes of love, loss, fleeting moments, and self-reflection.
Online
Prompt-Driven Writing
The Creative Habit: Cultivate a Daily Writing Practice
Malena Watrous
Author; Former Stegner Fellow, Stanford; Online Writing Certificate Program Lead and Creative Writing Coordinator, Stanford Continuing Studies
Reignite your creative spark by nurturing the seeds of imagination within you. This course offers daily prompts to inspire your writing, helping you overcome self-doubt and reconnect with your creative instincts. Through freewriting exercises in genres such as creative nonfiction, fiction, and poetry, you’ll experience the joy of uninhibited expression.
Online
Publishing
Landing an Agent: How to Prepare Your Submission Package
Heather Lazare
Publishing and Editorial Consultant
Increase your chances of securing a top literary agent by crafting a standout submission packet. Learn strategies for effective queries, successful pitching techniques, strong synopses or proposals, and more.
Online
Short Story
Short Fiction Workshop: Build a Story from the Ground Up
Thomas McNeely
Former Jones Lecturer and Stegner Fellow, Stanford
Unleash your storytelling potential by diving into the artistic process of transforming raw experiences into polished works of fiction. Through weekly submissions and expert guidance, you’ll master the craft of manipulating point of view, setting, tension, and more.
Online
Short Fiction Workshop: Write a Riveting, Stylish, Singular Short Story
Matt Sumell
Author
Discover the art of crafting compelling short stories, where suspense, language precision, keen attention to detail, and a sense of purpose are paramount. As a creative laboratory, this course will guide you in producing one shorter story and one longer story that will be collectively workshopped, while studying the works of esteemed authors like Aimee Bender, Jhumpa Lahiri, Junot Díaz, and George Saunders.
Online
Flash Fiction Workshop: Lightning on the Page
Christine Sneed
Author
Explore the art of flash fiction—where brevity meets emotional depth—in this course ideal for writers of all backgrounds. We’ll delve into the art of crafting concise yet impactful stories, with an emphasis on George Saunders’s concept of “line-by-line energy.” You’ll master the art of vivid and precise writing, leaving a lasting impression with your flash fiction creations.
Online
Business
Business
Our business courses will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in building your career, launching a startup, or growing a business. Taught by industry leaders from Silicon Valley and beyond, our courses cover product management, marketing, finance, leadership, and more.
Business Courses
Essential Business Skills: 8 Weeks, 4 Topics, 4 Expert Instructors
Richard Kim
Co-Founder and Senior Systems Engineer, Aerospace Technical Services
Jason McDonald
Director, JM Internet Group
Matt Harrison
Principal Consultant and Corporate Trainer, MetaSnake
Tim Bombosch
Senior Program Manager, North America, Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Gain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving professional landscape. Led by expert instructors, this dynamic, multidisciplinary course will immerse you in real-world challenges as you develop skills in four key areas: digital marketing, data analysis using Python, decision analysis, and project management. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or embarking on a new career, this course equips you with the essential toolkit to thrive, differentiate yourself, and confidently tackle any business challenge.
Online
Speaker Series: AI the Great Disruption
Ronjon Nag
The Entrepreneur
Paul Weinstein
The Investor
Michael Snyder
The Researcher
Jennifer King
The Policymaker
Discover the multifaceted nature of artificial intelligence (AI) through a captivating speaking series featuring distinguished experts from diverse fields at Stanford. This course will assemble expert speakers from across Stanford to examine AI through the lenses of entrepreneurship, engineering, research, policy, and more. With no single answer but a mosaic of viewpoints, this unique course empowers you to shape your own understanding of AI’s transformative possibilities, its implications for society, and its influence on industries.
Online
AI and Machine Learning: Make Your Business More Effective and Profitable
Giancarlo Mori
CEO and Chief Architect, Movyl Group
Gain clarity amid the AI hype and unlock the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning to drive your business forward. Join us for a comprehensive workshop where you’ll explore real-world applications, tools, and business cases that optimize pricing, marketing, sales, customer service, financial analysis, risk assessment, and more.
On Campus
Fundamentals of Product Management
Kunal Punjabi
Product Management and Product Strategy Lead
Want a career that hones your hard and soft skills while helping to create positive change in people’s lives? If so, product management—a highly influential and sought-after role in business today—might be right for you. This hands-on, introductory course will cover the core skills needed during the entire product management lifecycle.
Online
Product Management in the AI Era
Adnan Boz
Entrepreneur; AI Specialist; Former Head of Executive Education, AI, NVIDIA
Stay ahead of the curve and elevate your product management skills with a comprehensive course that explores the impact of AI on product and service development. Gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities posed by AI-based products, learn how to gather AI product requirements, and develop a roadmap to guide AI solution teams.
Online
UX Design for Beginners: Creating Unique Products and Services
Aswin Pranam
Product and Strategy Leader
Unlock the power of user-centric design and elevate your product’s potential with this comprehensive course on user experience (UX) design and design thinking. Gain practical skills in UX research, design principles, rapid prototyping, and digital design tools while exploring case studies of successful products.
Online
Fundamentals of Project Management
Tim Bombosch
Senior Program Manager, North America, Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Enhance your project management skills with this comprehensive course on core principles and best practices. Explore the project management lifecycle, master the 10 knowledge areas, and effectively handle scope, schedule, and costs. Whether you’re starting out or aiming for career growth, this course equips you with essential tools and techniques to excel in project delivery, elevate your current role, and unlock future opportunities.
Online
Exit Strategies: Maximizing the Value of Your Company
Paul V. Weinstein
Founder and Managing Director, Paul V. Weinstein & Associates
Turn your startup into the next Silicon Valley success story and discover the secret to successful startup exits through acquisitions. Learn the factors that drive an acquirer’s decision-making process and how to showcase your company’s competitive advantage, engage key stakeholders, and create compelling evidence to position your startup as a valuable asset.
Online
Making Critical Bets: Strategies for Modeling Business and Technical Decisions
Colby Hawker
Product Manager, Google
Learn to make informed decisions under uncertainty with confidence. Explore innovative frameworks from both business and engineering perspectives that will help you to analyze, model, and make better decisions in the face of complexity. Gain practical skills in simulation, sensitivity analysis, and Monte Carlo methods, and discover forward-looking AI applications that enhance your decision-making capabilities.
Online
Design Thinking and Rapid Experimentation for Practical Innovation
James Young
Principal and Design Lead, Tangible UX
Jenifer Bailey
Design Strategist; Coach; Facilitator
In this dynamic and hands-on course, discover how to navigate the uncertainties of product development and avoid costly mistakes. By combining design thinking and rapid experimentation techniques, you’ll learn to test assumptions, validate solutions, and build value throughout the process. With practical tools and collaborative approaches, you’ll unleash the power of lean, cross-functional teams to drive innovation and find the perfect product for your audience.
Online
Principles of Product/Market Fit
Edwin Oh
Managing Director, Infrastructure Group
Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, this course will equip you with the essential skills to create a successful business plan. Develop a systematic approach to validate the monetary potential of your business, differentiate between a mere business idea and a monetizable business model, and discover how to achieve product/market fit. With core concepts in customer development, innovation marketing, and competitive strategy, you’ll learn practical techniques to identify core customers, understand their needs, gain traction, and test your business model.
On Campus
Growth Marketing: Effective Strategies for Acquiring Users and Revenue
Sandy Diao
Director of Growth, Descript; Growth Advisor, Drift International
Discover the power of growth marketing and its ability to acquire customers, increase revenue, and maximize profitability. In this comprehensive course, learn how to leverage data to make informed marketing decisions, develop a data-informed growth marketing plan, and gain practical skills using growth marketing tools for analyzing and interpreting product and marketing data.
Online
Strategic Talent Management: Attracting, Growing, and Retaining Employees
Erica Santoni
Leadership Coach; Former Senior People Leader, ZipRecruiter and Intuit
In today’s dynamic business landscape, traditional top-down talent management practices are no longer effective. This course empowers leaders to navigate change, build robust talent management strategies, and foster high-performing teams by focusing on key pillars such as talent acquisition, performance management, learning and development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Online
Executive Presence Mastery: Essential Leadership and Influencing Skills
Tracy Wilk
Executive Coach; Former Vice President, Google Payments
JeanAnn Nichols
Executive Mentor and Leadership Coach; Former Vice President, Intel
Executive presence goes beyond appearance and words—it’s about creating a lasting impact on others. This course equips professionals with the essential skills to develop a strong executive presence, including self-awareness, emotional management, influencing techniques, effective communication, and confident leadership.
On Campus
High-Velocity Leadership: New Skills for Navigating Workplace Change
Susan Greene
Executive Leadership Coach; Former Vice President of Human Resources, Patagonia
Breanna Hatcher
Leadership Coach; Facilitator
Concerned or confused about how to lead in our changing work environment? You are not alone. Embrace the opportunities within the evolving work landscape by developing high-velocity leadership skills. Drawing on contemporary best practices and guest speakers from various industries, we will guide you in transforming conventional top-down leadership into collaborative leadership as you discover the power of conscious communication, collaboration, and holistic strategies to thrive in your leadership journey.
Online
The Mindful Manager: Navigating Workplace Conflict and Hard Conversations
Tiffany Teng
Former Vice President, Global Sales Enablement and Sales Ops, OakNorth
Imagine reframing workplace conflicts as opportunities for growth and connection. Drawing from conflict mediation, psychology, and neurobiology, you’ll gain practical tools and frameworks to effectively manage workplace and interpersonal conflicts, from identifying needs and de-escalation techniques to fostering psychological safety and navigating power dynamics.
On Campus
Networking and Coaching for Women Entrepreneurs
Areen Shahbari
Principal, Shahbari Training and Consultancy; Faculty, Harvard Extension School and Harvard Professional Development Programs
Connect with fellow women entrepreneurs, receive practical tools and support, and feel motivated to lead and scale your startup with confidence. Topics such as funding, scaling, talent management, well-being, resilience, and prioritization will be covered based on group interests, using a group coaching methodology.
On Campus
Leadership Skills for Women in the Workplace: Aim High and Achieve Impact
Nita Singh Kaushal
Founder, Miss CEO; Lecturer, Stanford School of Engineering
Break barriers and shatter the glass ceiling with this transformative course designed to equip women with the essential leadership skills needed to thrive in today’s workforce. Learn to negotiate confidently, showcase your achievements, advocate for yourself, and foster meaningful relationships, all while leveraging your unique strengths to drive positive change within your organization.
Online
Financial Planning: Part I
Christopher Canellos
Senior Advisor, Stanford Financial Management Services
Don’t let the complexity of personal finance intimidate you. This engaging and practical course will empower you to navigate the financial landscape with confidence. Learn to set and achieve financial goals, tame the Four Horsemen of Financial Planning, and unlock the secrets of investing in stocks and mutual funds.
Online
Accelerate Your Startup Idea
Bret Waters
Silicon Valley Investor
In this fast-paced and collaborative entrepreneurship course, the class will work together to refine startup ideas and make them launch-ready in just eight weeks. The course will look at such startup issues as product/market fit and developing a minimum viable product that can be rapidly iterated upon for success. Whether your idea is still only a sketch on a napkin or already attracts customers, the goal is for you to leave the course with an actionable business plan for a sustainable enterprise.
On Campus
Enterprise SaaS Startups: The Ride from Inception to Fundraise
Arpit Goel
Founder and Managing Director, Sigma; Former VP of Product, Palo Alto Networks; Founder and CEO, Gamma.AI
Designed for first-time entrepreneurs in the enterprise SaaS space who are challenged with first-round fundraising, this fast-paced, collaborative course builds a foundational understanding of the SaaS startup market. We’ll cover go-to-market (GTM) motions, minimum viable product development, team building, and early-stage fundraising models through a series of case studies, culminating with a pitch night where each team presents their work to an audience of external VCs, angels, entrepreneurs, and operators who provide invaluable feedback.
On Campus
Communication
Communication
Hone your communications skills and learn how to convey a clear, compelling, and consistent message. Our courses in public speaking, interpersonal communications, and more will help you succeed in business and personal settings.
Communication Courses
The Right to Speak: Finding and Freeing Your Natural Voice
Ted DesMaisons
Founder and Principal, ANIMA Learning
We all want to be heard, but speaking up when it matters most—at work, in relationships, and in our families and communities—can be scary. The good news: you were born with a ready presence and an open voice. In this course, we will identify and dissolve such restrictions by applying the same exercises that famed voice and presence coach Patsy Rodenburg has used successfully with Oscar winners, Olympic gold medalists, and global business leaders alike.
On Campus
Communicate with Impact and Purpose
Amy Eliza Wong
Conversational Intelligence Certified Coach; Founder, Always On Purpose
Get ready to stop informing and start inspiring! In this dynamic and engaging workshop, we will delve into the art of effective delivery, whether in virtual or in-person settings, and uncover the secrets to building trust, increasing credibility, and engaging your audience purposefully. By mastering nonverbal communication techniques and exploring the neuroscience behind them, you will be empowered with the skills to create a positive impact in every communication exchange, no matter the scale.
On Campus
Building Interpersonal Skills: An Experiential Workshop
Susan Neville
Facilitator, Interpersonal Dynamics and LEAD Program, Stanford Graduate School of Business
Campbell Frank
Facilitator, Interpersonal Dynamics, Stanford Graduate School of Business
Kevin Martin
Managing Director, The Martin Leadership Group; Facilitator, Stanford Graduate School of Business
Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and relationship building with this unique course inspired by the renowned “Interpersonal Dynamics” program at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Through immersive T-group experiences, small group collaborations, and engaging class exercises, you will develop a profound understanding of yourself and others.
On Campus
Nonverbal Communication: The Power of Body Language and Voice
Jeff Cabili
Founder and Principal, How2Captivate
Discover the keys to effective nonverbal communication and master the “how to say it” aspect rather than solely focusing on “what to say.” Explore the nuances of expression, encompassing gestures, body language, vocal techniques, eye contact, and the strategic use of silence. Gain insights into leveraging nonverbal communication as a powerful tool for influencing others, even in challenging situations.
On Campus
Think on Your Feet: An Improviser’s Guide to Business and Communication
Debra Schifrin
Lecturer, Stanford Graduate School of Business; Founder, Debra Schifrin Consulting
Daniel Schifrin
Founder, StoryForward
Master the art of thinking on your feet and be empowered to handle unexpected situations with ease, inclusiveness, and humor. Boost your confidence and communication skills by cultivating curiosity, embracing spontaneity, and engaging your audience with energy and delight. By developing a stronger and more intuitive communication style, you’ll prevent missteps and forge authentic connections with your audience.
On Campus
High-Impact Communication to Advance Your Technology Career
Matt Vassar
Core Lecturer, Stanford School of Engineering
Transform your technical communication so that your ideas are met with excitement and your colleagues instantly understand the importance of your work. Learn strategies to make your ideas accessible, storytelling to make your concepts engaging, and relationship building to gain supporters for your ideas.
Online
Essential Video Communication Skills for Today’s Workplace
Lorraine K. Lee
LinkedIn Learning Instructor
Explore the art of captivating video communication. Learn to convey ideas effectively, engage your audience, and forge meaningful connections across physical distances. Whether you’re leading meetings, giving presentations, creating content, or simply connecting with others, this course will empower you to project a captivating online presence and foster genuine professional and personal relationships in the digital realm.
Online
Accent Reduction for Non-Native English Speakers
Neil Jacobs
Professor of Germanic Languages and Literatures, Emeritus, Ohio State
Take your English proficiency to the next level with this comprehensive accent reduction course. Designed for individuals already proficient in English, this course offers a systematic yet accessible approach to reducing foreign accents. Through a combination of theory, practical exercises, and personalized feedback, you will gain a deep understanding of English speech sounds, tackle pronunciation challenges, master word stress and intonation, and navigate the nuances of formal and casual speech.
On Campus
Technology & Data Science
Technology & Data Science
Embark on a journey through artificial intelligence, master a new coding language, or delve into the world of data science. We offer courses designed for all skill levels, from novices to seasoned programmers.
Technology & Data Science Courses
Beginning Programming in Python
Eli Lev
Technology Manager, Stanford Continuing Studies
Designed for those with no experience in computer science, this introductory course will explore the world of programming by teaching the fundamental syntax and meaning of the Python programming language.
Online
Graphical Models: Uncovering Hidden Relationships in Complex Systems
Harish Kashyap
Senior Machine Learning Algorithm Engineer, KLA
Dive into the world of graphical models and gain valuable skills in probabilistic modeling and inference. This course will cover four key topics: fundamental probability theory concepts, Bayesian networks for decision-making and causal inference, Markov random fields for modeling variable interactions, and conditional random fields for advanced applications. By mastering these techniques, you’ll be equipped to model relationships between variables, make predictions, and make informed decisions across various domains.
On campus
Data Analysis with Python
Matt Harrison
Principal Consultant and Corporate Trainer, MetaSnake
Learn how to extract insights and value from large data sets using Python to acquire, clean, visualize, and draw conclusions from the data. Using popular tools such as Jupyter Notebook, pandas, matplotlib, seaborn, and scikit-learn, you’ll explore categorical and numerical data, uncover relationships, and create graphical and numerical summaries.
Online
A Crash Course in AI
Ronjon Nag
Adjunct Professor in Genetics, Stanford School of Medicine; Visiting Fellow, Stanford Center for the Study of Language and Information; President, R42 Group.
Whether you’re a product manager seeking to collaborate with data scientists, a software engineer craving AI exposure, or simply curious about the world of AI, this course is your gateway to unlocking the potential and unraveling the complexities of AI. Through hands-on exercises and engaging discussions, explore how AI platforms compare to the workings of the human brain, delve into the mechanics of learning, and learn to build and apply neural networks.
Online
No-Code AI: Unlocking Business Potential
Gauthier Vasseur
Business Analytics Leader; Author; Strategist
Do you need to learn to code? Not necessarily. This hands-on course will present the keys for applying AI to your business without writing a single line of code. While logic and interest in analytics are important foundations for learning, no-code solutions are making the power of AI and ML accessible to anyone eager to see beyond traditional analysis.
On campus
Statistics for AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science
Gregory Ryslik
CTO, Compass Pathways
Patrick Staples
Biostatistician; Data Scientist
Gain a high-level overview of some of the most common concepts in statistics that make AI and ML possible: inference and prediction. You will come away with a high-level understanding of common statistical tools used in AI and ML algorithms and will be able to derive your own conclusions from statistical studies.
Online
Breaking into Data Science
Grace Tang
Data Scientist
An essential skill for every data scientist is asking the right questions about the data in order to extract relevant and actionable insights. This means understanding the context and purpose of the data and asking questions that unlock its hidden value. It is the kind of work that is challenging, exciting, and impactful. This unique course provides a gentle introduction to the data science landscape to help students determine if it suits them and which roles might be most fitting for them.
Online
Ethical Data and AI: Concepts and Tools for Responsible Decision-Making
Angel Evan
Data Science and AI Ethics Leader
This course dives deep into the realm of data ethics, empowering current leaders and business professionals with the tools to navigate ethically ambiguous situations. By exploring predetermined questions and making informed decisions, you will gain the skills to address data-related ethical problems in real-world scenarios and foster ethical leadership within your organizations.
Online
From Data to Deployment: Creating Production-Ready Large Language Models
Hamza Farooq
Adjunct Professor, University of Minnesota and Santa Clara University; Former Senior Research Science Manager, Google
Unlock the potential of large language models by delving into their complex nature and exploring their practical applications. Gain hands-on experience in deploying machine learning models using industry practices, and learn how to tackle real-world problems by formulating holistic ML strategies. Develop a comprehensive understanding of large language models, overcome data challenges, and master the art of model design and implementation.
Online
Introduction to Robotics
Prasad Saripalli
Vice President AIML and Distinguished Engineer; Adjunct Professor, Khoury College of Computer Sciences, Northeastern University
Robotics offers endless opportunities for innovation and creativity, spanning from developing cutting-edge technologies to exploring the ethical and social implications of robotics. Join this introductory course to gain foundational knowledge in robot design, programming, and construction, and pave your way towards specialization in areas like robot programming, control systems, sensors, or the integration of robotics into various industries.
Online
Public Programs
Master of Liberal Arts
Master of Liberal Arts
Start your next chapter with a part-time, evening graduate degree in the liberal arts.
Stanford’s Master of Liberal Arts Program (MLA) offers an extraordinary opportunity to pursue an interdisciplinary course of study in the liberal arts and earn your master’s degree at one of the world’s great centers of learning. Designed with busy adults in mind, this part-time graduate degree program holds classes in the evenings and offers a flexible academic schedule.
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n the MLA program, students form a close-knit cohort that takes courses taught by Stanford faculty. Areas of study include history of science, philosophy, literature, environmental studies, political science, history, and more. Students will hone their ability to write persuasively and creatively, develop compelling arguments, conduct original research, and integrate thinking from multiple disciplines. For many students, these are ends in themselves. For others, these skills serve them well in their professional lives.
MLA applications are accepted from September through January, with classes beginning in September of the following academic year. For more information on the program and admissions details, please visit: mla.stanford.edu.
Taking Stanford Continuing Studies courses can be excellent preparation for applying to the MLA program. Each quarter, the MLA program recommends courses that are similar in subject and format to seminars you would find in MLA study.
RECOMMENDED CONTINUING STUDIES COURSES: FALL 2023
© Robert Siegel
Whether you prefer the flexibility of online classes or the vibrant atmosphere of in-person sessions, we look forward to seeing you this Fall Quarter!
Registration opens August 21, 2023, and most classes begin the week of September 25, 2023.