FAQ?
- How is the General Studies Program different from the other undergraduate colleges?
- Why am I in the GSP?
- Are GSP courses regular college courses?
- Can I leave GSP early?
- Can I change my GSP Learning Community?
- What is STL (Strategic Thinking and Learning)?
- How do I become a sophomore?
- How do I become a University honors student?
- Will I be behind my peers when I am a sophomore?
- How important is class attendance?
- When do I go on Co-op? Do I have to go on Co-op?
- Can I transfer Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or college-level credit into the General Studies Program?
- What are placement tests used for?
- What if I have a learning disability? What types of services are available?
- What is it like to live on campus?
- What is it like to be a commuter student?
- Can I be in a club or play a sport while in the General Studies Program?
How is the General Studies Program different
from the other undergraduate colleges?
The General Studies Program is a one-year, first-year college experience. Instead of a major, all GSP students join a Learning Community that leads to sophomore status in one of the university’s undergraduate colleges. By joining their GSP learning community, upon successful completion of the GSP year, students transition as sophomores into one of the following colleges: College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business Administration, College of Criminal Justice, College of Computer and Information Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, or College of Engineering.
The GSP includes approximately 180 students each year. Students enjoy one-on-one advising and individualized attention in the classroom and administrative offices. They have access to a variety of resources, including Strategic Learning seminars and the nationally-certified Peer Tutor Program, which lend to their success.
topWhy am I in the GSP?
Through the admission process, you were selected for the General Studies Program based on academic and non-academic factors reviewed in your application, including ability, motivation, leadership, and maturity. The committee for admission recognized that you would be successful at NU and specifically so for the first year in the General Studies Program. You bring to the GSP experience and skill that will enhance the overall success of the GSP. Your contributions in the classroom will not only strengthen your own abilities, but will also directly influence your peers.
Are GSP courses regular college courses?
Yes. GSP courses are selected based upon the university’s general requirements for first-year students (i.e. first-year writing, and so on), as well as for requirements fulfilled within the various colleges and majors. While the GSP first-year does not mirror the other colleges’ first-year programs exactly, students enrolled in GSP fulfill a combination of first-year and graduation requirements. The GSP curriculum meets students’ academic requirements, and pays close attention to developing the skills necessary for academic success at NU.
Can I leave GSP early?
No. The first year at Northeastern is based upon two semesters of study. You must successfully complete the 28 semester hours of study (32 are recommended) and the required GPA and courses for your intended major in order to transition as a sophomore.
Can I change my GSP Learning Community?
Yes; it may be possible to change your Learning Community depending on certain factors. Students who opt to change their academic direction should speak immediately with their GSP advisor.
What is STL (Strategic Thinking and Learning)?
The Strategic Thinking and Learning Seminar is designed to enhance academic success by involving students in practical applications of critical thinking and learning strategies across disciplines, and by helping students access university resources and adjust to university life. Using a multi-media approach, diverse perspectives, and collaborative learning, students are challenged to examine social, cultural, and historical forces that shape their lives. The STL instructor also serves as the academic advisor throughout the year, assisting with sophomore transition and other procedures. The seminar earns one semester credit, and meets once per week in both the fall and spring semesters.
How do I become a sophomore?
In order to successfully fulfill the requirements to become a sophomore, you must meet the curriculum and GPA requirements for your intended major as detailed for GSP students as well as complete a minimum of 28 semester hours of credit (32 are recommended).
You are also required to work with your STL instructor to complete the sophomore transition process. This formal transition includes group meetings with a cooperative education advisor as well as an advisor from your destination college. These meetings will provide you with the appropriate guidance to matriculate to sophomore standing and become acquainted with the requirements of your intended degree program. Note that some majors in the Bouve College of Health Sciences are restricted or limited for sophomore transition.
topHow do I become a University honors student?
At the conclusion of the first year—the GSP year—students who have achieved the requisite GPA and the requisite semester hours may petition to be reviewed for the University Honors Program.
Will I be behind my peers when I am a sophomore?
Students who follow the assigned curricula in the General Studies Program complete some courses parallel to the freshman curriculum found in the six colleges at Northeastern University as well as courses required by the General Studies Program specifically. If you successfully complete the coursework outlined for you through the General Studies Program and in cooperation with your advisor, you will be prepared to graduate with your peers.
If you intend to pursue a degree in the Bouvé College of Health Sciences, the School of Architecture, the College of Computer and Information Science, or the College of Engineering additional major-specific courses may be required in order to complete the first-year curriculum. Many students working towards upper-class status in these fields opt to take summer courses; your GSP advisor will work with you to develop a plan to fulfill the requirements of your intended degree.
topHow important is class attendance?
The General Studies Program enforces its attendance policy—you must attend all class meetings as scheduled. At the beginning of the term you will be given a syllabus for each of the courses in which you are enrolled. The syllabus outlines each class meeting date and what assignments, quizzes, or exams are scheduled. Attendance and active participation are paramount.
When do I go on Co-op? Do I have to go on Co-op?
Your first cooperative education semester will most likely occur in the second half of the sophomore year. Following the first cooperative education experience, you will work with your academic and cooperative education advisors to develop an individualized calendar for academic and cooperative education.
Most students choose to coop and there are some colleges that require cooperative education as part of the total learning model. Careful planning with your academic advisor will assist you with developing an individualized academic and cooperative education schedule.
topCan I transfer Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate,
or college-level credit into the General Studies Program?
Your college-level or advanced testing scores will be reviewed, and NU equivalent credit may be awarded.
What are placement tests used for?
The placement tests are used on the first day of math and writing classes to assist the faculty and staff with assigning you to course sections that complement your skills, abilities, and desired major. Following day-one placement tests, course placements and schedules are often adjusted.
What if I have a learning disability? What types of services are available?
In order to begin receiving services for your disability, you must contact Northeastern’s Disability Resource Center and/or Learning Disability Program; typically, you will have made these contacts during the application process. If you have not already been in contact with the DRC/LDP, please be sure to do so. Information may be obtained through the university website about the specific services offered or through your GSP advisor.
What is it like to live on campus?
Northeastern University’s campus is considered one of the most self-contained urban-centric campuses in Boston. The residential facilities offer students many options of theme-living, including living-learning centers, single-gender residences, suite-style halls, and on-campus apartments. In spite of the variety, NU also offers standard freshman doubles and upsized rooms where you will begin to experience college life by meeting students from across the country and around the world.
In addition, the residential hall staff works around the clock to make your living environment safe, educational, and comfortable. Should you need assistance or advice, your Resident Assistant (a fellow NU student) will guide you or provide you with the resources necessary.
topWhat is it like to be a commuter student?
If you choose to commute to campus from either an off-campus apartment or from home, you will still be able to integrate into the university community through your classes, participation in clubs and/or sports, or through utilizing any of our many campus resources, including the library or student center.
Because NU’s campus is centrally located between three subway stops, the commuter rail, and buses, many students opt to commute. In addition, some students will drive to campus, but parking at NU is limited and we encourage you to check out one of the many public transportation options instead.
topCan I be in a club or play a sport while in the General Studies?
As a full-time undergraduate student at Northeastern University and in the General Studies Program, you are entitled to participate in any of the activities, clubs, or athletic teams sponsored by the university. With over 140 different clubs and activities, it is inevitable that you will find a group of students who share your interests. And if you don’t, it only takes 6 other students to incorporate a club at NU.
Our Division One athletic program will allow you to enjoy the challenge of competition through one of our men’s or women’s athletic teams. If Division One athletics is not your speed, then the Marino Athletic Complex is the home to several intramural and club programs. The Marino Center is great for the enthusiastic exerciser too. With four stories of equipment and work-out rooms you will find the space on campus to get fit and feel great.
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