What is the Oakland Clemente Course in the Humanities?

THE OAKLAND CLEMENTE COURSE IN THE HUMANITIES IS A FREE, AWARD-WINNING COLLEGE COURSE THAT EXPLORES THE MUTUAL STUDY OF LITERATURE, CRITICAL THINKING AND WRITING IN A SUPPORTIVE, DISCUSSION-BASED COMMUNITY OF LIFELONG LEARNERS.

The course is free and seeks to serve adults who have faced barriers to higher education, and who are looking for an engaged community of peers to explore great moments of history, art, philosophy, and literature. By prioritizing discussion and life experiences as part of what it means to be an engaged citizen and critical thinker, the Clemente Course is a participatory approach to education where each individual has a voice.

For those who aspire to attend college in the future, the Oakland Clemente Course also offers an opportunity to experience a college classroom and earn transferable college credits from Bard College at no cost.  

A high school diploma or GED is not required for admission. The course and supplies are FREE.

Fall 2026 semester begins Wednesday September 16, 530-730pm at the Oakland Public LIbrary’s main branch. You can join the course at any time! email david@clementecourse.org or just drop in any Wednesday in the Second Start classroom!

Student Testimonials:

“This course meant a lot to me and will forever be treasured for the remainder of my life. It truly was a most transformational course, like no other I've attended before. This wouldn't have been possible without the instructors and participants. I'm a better being for having taken the chance at this experience.”

— Iggy

"Joining the Clemente family was one of the best decisions I ever made! So many times in my life I had to make the hard choice of either pursuing higher education or working- life never allowed me to do both. Clemente's classes were approachable, convenient, and engaging. The instructors were as compassionate as they were knowledgeable. For the first time, I could combine furthering my education as well as making a living. Clemente helped me find my agency as a student and create a lifelong learner."

—Sheree

"I took two semesters of the Clemente Course, and I found it extremely useful and educational for my academic purposes. English is my second language, and I was hesitant to join the class, but it actually helped me improve my English skills. The supportive environment and interactive discussions played a crucial role in building my confidence. Additionally, this class changed my view of history, taught me about multiple topics, and developed my critical thinking."

— Carolina