Most students got their sex education in a high school class — or even a middle school class — but some choose to further that education in Lois McDermott's Psychology 210 class, Human Sexuality.

The class is intended to give students a survey of the biological, psychological and social determinants of human sexuality and behavior, according to the course description.

But there's more to it than that.

McDermott, who has been teaching part-time at the UW for more than 20 years, has a transgender community panel talk about their life experiences and answer students' questions on sexual health. Also, there is time during the quarter dedicated to exploring sexual abuse, assault and sexually transmitted diseases (STD).

"I heard about it from my roommate, who enjoyed the class," said sophomore Jake Smaton. "I learned about different views on sex in different cultures. Also there's never a boring day in that class. I would recommend it to a friend."

UW isn't the only school to teach a sexuality-related course.

Central Washington University, Western Washington University and Washington State University also offer similar classes.

"I heard about it from friends ... [who] always came back from class with fun and entertaining stories," said Allison Bowman, a CWU student. "It's informative ... but also addresses sexuality from a psychological perspective."

Bowman said the class is a chance for students to get answers to questions they have about sexuality.

"I think most students take it because sex is such a hush-hush topic," Bowman said. "They get to learn about sexuality and not be deemed a pervert or sex addict. [Others] take it because it does also become a basic sex-ed course, which some students have never participated in, even in high school."

At WSU, the class is taught from an evolutionary framework, said Jessica Alfaro, the professor who teaches it.

However, Alfaro said she tries to make it practical for students so they can use what they learn.

Controversial topics are common in these classes, Alfaro said.

"At times the class can be controversial," said Alfaro. "[We] discuss natural selection and some beginning students may not agree with these ideas."

The class at the UW may not be for everyone, as McDermott acknowledges on the class Web site.

The material may be considered offensive, depending one's background.

The course offers, to some, a psychological perspective, to others an opportunity to learn to be safe.

"I think it's a course everyone should take ... it's important to know all that you can so that you can protect yourself and others," said Bowman.

Reach reporter Chris Paredes at news@thedaily.washington.edu.