Suggestions for Pre-Orientation Course Request

• How do I know which courses to select for my first semester?
• What about my future major requirements?
• Should I request courses in a variety of subjects?
• Do I have to finish my Pathways for General Education requirements by the end of my first year?
• What if I want to take courses that are not listed on the Course Request form?
• Should my parents or family members choose my courses for me?

How do I know which courses to select for my first semester?
Students should start by examining their Pathways to General Education courses. The previous section on Pathways to General Education gives a broad overview of requirements. We suggest students choose courses in Concepts in which they are NOT bringing in credit. 

For example, if a student took the Advanced Placement (AP) exam for English Literature expecting to make a high score, we do not suggest the student take a course in the Discourse Concept in their first semester. 

Students can view what courses they would receive from examinations.

What about my future major requirements?
Ciew the Major requirements checksheets. Majors are listed alphabetically. Click on the latest date next to the major to see the most up to date major requirements.

Each major's requirements vary, but some courses in majors can count towards Pathways for General Education. For example, for Pamplin College of Business majors, students take Economics (ECON) 2005 for their major and it also counts in Concept 3 of Pathways to General Education. Compare major checksheets with remaining Pathways for General Education requirements.

Advisors will examine your requested courses to seek out the best courses that will work towards your future major.

Should I request courses in a variety of subjects?
Yes, in order to explore, advisors suggest students take courses in many different subjects to fulfill many requirements in Pathways for General Education.

Do I have to finish my Pathways for General Education requirements by the end of my first year?
No, Pathways for General Education courses must be completed by graduation.

What if I want to take courses that are not on the Course Request Form?
Not all courses will be available for Course Request including some courses needed for majors such as Mathematics courses or science courses such as Chemistry. There will be availability for more courses than those available during Course Request at Orientation. 

At Orientation, students can speak with an advisor and determine the best course options for their first semester.

Should my parents or family members choose my courses for me?
We strongly encourage parents and family members to assist students with their course request process. However, students should request their own courses to get practice for the future. 

Have more questions?
Contact University Studies at 540-231-8440 or UnivStudies@vt.edu.