Freshman Seminar FAQ

What’s a freshman seminar like?

Freshman seminars are small, with a maximum of twenty students. Seminars are taught by faculty members who have volunteered their time and effort because they want to meet and teach students who are early in their MSU careers. Students and faculty in each freshman seminar form a “community of learning” around a topic or issue of mutual interest.

What kind of work is involved?

You will read works related to a specified topic, discuss relevant issues in class, write on assigned topics. The seminars are a chance to explore an intriguing topic, to hone critical thinking and writing skills, to get to know other students and a prominent MSU faculty member.

How do I enroll?

It’s easy. Just take a moment to browse the list of seminars being offered for next year. Write down your preferred seminar section number and take it with you to your Academic Orientation Program and work with an adviser to add it to your schedule.

Do I get credit?

All freshman seminars count toward graduation. Freshman seminars (UGS 101) are graded pass/no grade, and are taken for one credit. International freshman seminars (UGS 102) are graded numerically, and are taken for two credits. Time arrangements and course formats are determined by the individual faculty member