How to pick your classes

Find a balance. A wide range of classes will tap your abilities and develop your skills in different ways. Reading and writing courses, such as philosophy, literature, government or history, will help balance courses that require quantitative work and/or daily attention, such as languages, math or the natural sciences.

Consider sequencing issues. If you’re considering a structured major like a foreign language or natural science, there may be specific courses recommended for the first year.

Space it out. Spread your course load over the entire week. Some classes meet three times a week for 50 minutes, and others meet twice a week for 75 minutes. Some upper-level courses meet for three hours once a week.

Vary your class sizes. Enrollment limitations are listed in the course catalog. Some larger courses, including Psychology 101, Biology 105 and Chemistry 103, also meet in small laboratory or discussion sections once a week.

Be adventurous. Your first semester is a great time to explore new intellectual interests and expand your horizons. All entry-level classes (course numbers in the 100s) are open to first-year students. Check the prerequisites of other courses.

View the College Catalog and class schedule. 

Special academic programs


Four of the College’s interdisciplinary academic centers offer certificates that may be combined with any major. These premier academic programs have their own selection process, which takes place during sophomore year. To find out how a certificate program can add to your educational experience, you should attend information sessions.

Students in any major may also apply for the College’s study away programs, funded internship program and summer research with faculty. In addition, students may earn an interdisciplinary certificate in museum studies or Connecticut state teaching certification in elementary or secondary education. The College also offers pre-law and pre-med/pre-health advising. 

Placements and auditions


Some departments in the College offer placement tests, interviews and/or auditions. The purpose of these tests is simply to place you in the course most suited to your ability and preparation. Don’t worry about them. Please indicate on the Designing Your Education form which tests, interviews and auditions you’d like to take. We will make arrangements for you to meet with the chairs of these departments. Please discuss this with your faculty adviser so that arrangements can be made for you to meet with the chairs of these departments.

Mathematics: If you’re planning to take a math class in your first year, you will need to take the department’s placement interview. Faculty will interview you and recommend an appropriate course. Students interested in a major that does not require or recommend calculus may want to consider other 100-level math courses such as Introduction to Mathematical Thought, Mathematics of Money or Introduction to Statistics.

Music: Auditions are required for all students who wish to take applied music lessons for credit. The department welcomes students at the intermediate and advanced levels. Only under special circumstances will students at a beginning level be allowed to major in music. The student fee for music lessons is paid by the generous gift of the Jack Niblack ’98 Music Lessons Fund. For more information about the major and the eligibility requirements for music lessons, contact John Anthony, professor of music, 860-439-2720.