- Entering students will enroll for a 4-credit First-Year Seminar (FSEM 1111); completion of this course is one of the graduation requirements for all first-time, first-year students. It is the first quarter of a three-quarter First Year Inquiry and Writing sequence.
First-Year Seminars are designed to provide students with an in-depth academic experience that is both rigorous and engaging. They will develop the kinds of academic skills that prepare them for successful college work, including writing, critical reading and thinking, discussion, argument and debate. Faculty members have selected course topics about which they have particular expertise and enthusiasm. For our first-year students to be able to engage with faculty in the exploration of these topics is an extraordinary opportunity for academic and personal growth.
The instructor of the First-Year Seminar course your student chooses will also serve as your student’s academic advisor and faculty mentor for their entire first year. They will meet individually with their mentor during winter and spring quarters for advising and registration help. Their mentor will be an excellent source of support during this important transitional year. The seminars will meet for 4 hours per week for the fall quarter.
How do students register for a First-Year Seminar?
- Before students go online to register, they must read the course descriptions at www.du.edu/studentlife/fys and should select several possible options. If their first-choice FSEM is full (course sections will fill on a first-come, first-served basis), they should choose a different FSEM that piques their interest. It does not need to be a course in their intended major – encourage them to think outside the box and expand their horizons!
If your student has any questions about selecting or registering for a First-Year Seminar, they are free to contact our Discoveries Orientation Office at 303.871.3860 or orientation-du@du.edu.
