Well, there are different levels and types of photography classes.
There are general film classes and then there are B&W film classes. Both of these would focus on the processing of images in the darkroom and on both the technical and creative side of photography. Most B&W classes are also geared toward fine art photography.
Then there are digital photography classes. These include basic classes that teach you how to use any digital camera and also more advanced digital courses.
Most beginner level courses include instruction on how to use an SLR and how to compose and properly expose a shot. They will also over the use of depth of field.