Inspired by Duke University’s course of the same title, in fall 2024, Duke Kunshan University (DKU) offered a new interdisciplinary course titled “Let’s Talk About Climate Change,” open to all undergraduate students. The course set a new enrollment record at DKU with over 150 students.
Developed by 19 DKU faculty from various disciplines, this 14-week course allowed students to learn, analyze and reflect on how climate change intersects with a range of academic fields and impacts our lives in multiple ways. The course explored topics ranging from energy, biology, ecology, climate justice and global governance to mathematics and religion. Additionally, the course had a unique format: there were no tests, exams, or grades; and classes were held on Thursday evenings after most students had completed their regular coursework for the week. The goal of this design was to engage and attract more students to participate, while enabling them to become more climate-fluent and more aware of this pressing issue. During Thanksgiving week, students visited a local organic farm, where they enjoyed healthy produce while attending a lecture on sustainable agricultural practices. DKU is planning to offer this course again in spring 2026. LEARN MORE.