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UGS Lingo

BDP (Bridging Disciplines Programs)

1. Undergraduates earn an interdisciplinary certificate through a course of study that integrates classroom, research, and internship experiences.

2. Certificate program that allows students to study an issue from a variety of disciplinary perspectives through class work, research and internships.

Core Curriculum

Gives all undergraduate students, regardless of major, a broad academic foundation in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences that will prepare them to become leaders in their professions and communities.

FIG (First-year Interest Group)

Up to 25 first-year students take classes together and meet to talk about issues they encounter as new students, including time management, social opportunities, and campus life.

Flags

A Flag signals that a course includes sufficient instruction in Writing, Quantitative Reasoning, Global Cultures, Cultural Diversity in the United States, Ethics and Leadership, or Independent Inquiry to fulfill one of the “flag requirements” that students will satisfy as they complete their core, major, and elective coursework.

Freshman Reading Round-Up

The day before fall classes begin, incoming first-year students connect with top-notch faculty and like-minded peers through small book clubs. Best books, best minds, best friends.

Informational Interview

A conversation with a professional about an organization, a field of work, or a particular job that interests you. Intended to assist in the career decision-making process while helping you establish a professional network.

Peer Academic Coaching

Students meet weekly for a semester with a trained peer for advice on how to study effectively. Common topics include test preparation, reading efficiency, note-taking, time management, and goal setting.

PLUS (Peer-led Undergraduate Studying)

This program aims to improve student performance and motivation in historically difficult courses by offering weekly study groups.

Strategic Advising

Academic advisors help students explore majors, select courses, and discover experiential learning opportunities as they learn more about their goals and interests.

Supplemental Instruction

Weekly discussion sections help students master course content in a variety of difficult large-format courses. Led by specially prepared graduate-level instructors who are studying in relevant fields, these discussions strengthen and teach the analytical skills that improve overall student performance.

UGS Ambassadors

UGS Ambassadors are current students who represent the School of Undergraduate Studies at special events and outreach functions.

Undergraduate Studies Student Council

Advocates on behalf of students who are enrolled in Undergraduate Studies, or otherwise affiliated with one or more UGS programs.

University Lectures

Distinguished faculty speak about controversial topics designed to promote campus-wide conversations. All Signature Courses incorporate at least one of the lectures, and First-year Interest Groups also participate.

Wayfinder

This dynamic advising tool guides students to customized resources and activities that can give them the practical tools they need to make informed choices about their major. The website will not replace advising, but rather encourage students to take control of their own educational decisions.