Focus on the First Year ExperienceStudents performing a survey

UC Davis faculty members want first year students to get off to the right academic start. In order to better acclimate to academic life, UC Davis offers several options that allow students to enjoy smaller, more hands-on classroom experiences. As a result, we have a small course offering for every incoming student who desires one.

  • Freshman Seminar Program

    The UC Davis Freshmen Seminar Program (FSP) is probably the simplest program for students to access. These courses are designed for small groups of no more than twenty students. Several sections focus on Navigating the Research University, where students learn how to make sense of and thrive at UC Davis. Other sections focus on special topic courses that allow students to investigate an issue for which one of our faculty instructors has a particular passion. Recent topics have included the science of chocolate, Harry Potter, and Rocket Science. In winter of 08, Vice Provost Turner taught a seminar on New Orleans before and after Hurricane Katrina. Her students were able to hear Wynton Marsalis at the Mondavi Center, eat pralines, and hear from one of the world’s leading authorities on rivers and flooding. We offer over 100 different seminars. Learn more about them by clicking the link above.

  • Davis Honors Challenge

    Shortly after being admitted to UC Davis, every student receives an invitation outlining the advantages of the Davis Honors Challenge. This program focuses on more challenging course work, closer contacts with faculty and dynamic interactions with similarly motivated peers. Enthusiastic students eager to work in a group environment are admitted into the program. During the first year participants take small focused seminars with top-notch faculty members. In addition to taking their classes with other DHC students, they also enjoy the advantages of a living/learning environment by being co-located in student housing. Each spring, DHC accepts applicants from incoming first year students, and from currently enrolled first year students who are interested in participating during their second year at UC Davis. Learn more by clicking the link above.

  • Integrated Studies Honors Program

    Admitted first year students who have received prestigious UC Regents Scholarships are invited to join the Integrated Studies Honors Program. After accepting the invitation, they are invited to live with peers in Miller Hall and take honors GE classes with other members of their cohort. Each year a theme undergirds the first year honors seminar; for 2008-2009, the theme will focus on presidential elections. Learn more by clicking the link above.

The Office of Undergraduate Studies encourages each student to weigh the options available and make sure to register for a course that will provide a more intimate and active learning experience.