Undergraduate Catalog 2008-2009

• Student Responsibility Statement
• Admission
• University Degree Requirements
• Registration
• Course Expectations
• Grading
• Alternative Methods for Earning University Credit
• Student Finances
• Student Records
• Student Conduct

Freshman Admission

Most successful students at the university have come with a strong level of preparation in basic academic areas. Although the following courses are not requirements for admission, our experience suggests that applicants for regular admission will be adequately prepared for university courses if they have had, at the high school level, four years/units of English (with a substantial writing component), four years/units of social studies, three years/units of science, three years/units of a second language, and at least three years/units of college-preparatory mathematics. A number of students who have not completed such a program will be admitted, but they must realize that additional work in one or more of these areas may be necessary after arrival at the university in order to maximize their chances for success in various academic programs.

Freshman admission is based on consideration of a student’s academic record: high school average, rank in class, SAT (critical reading and math) or ACT score, and rigor of the high school academic program. Factors such as recommendations, participation in community service, demonstrated leadership, documented evidence of exceptional creative talent and special circumstances that may have prevented presentation of competitive credentials are also considered.

Freshman applicants are required to submit a Part II supplemental application, which includes an essay, and at least one recommendation from a high school counselor or teacher. SAT and/or ACT results, including writing, are also required and must be sent directly from the testing agency.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to indicate a choice of major on the application form. This information is used for planning purposes only, since application to a particular academic department as a major generally occurs during a student’s sophomore year at the university. The Departments of Art and Music, and the Schools of Architecture and Urban Planning, Engineering and Applied Sciences, Management, Nursing, and Public Health and Health Professions, review credentials at the time of initial application to the university and may offer direct admission to their programs. Music requires an audition, and art requires a portfolio in the spring semester of the freshman year.

Applicants seeking entry for a fall term should submit completed applications as early as possible during the preceding fall. The Admissions Committee begins to review completed applications and supportive credentials in December and issues notification of decisions shortly thereafter.

Additional Information

• Early Admission
• Early Decision
• Acker Scholars
• Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)
• Honors Program
• University Scholars
• College Study for High School Students