This information is to assist in advising first-year students. It consists of two sections. The first contains information, drawn from the Catalog and "Guidebook for New Students," which bears on any first year student's course of study. In the second, each department lists which courses it recommends for students who wish to satisfy foundation and distribution requirements and which courses it requires or recommends for prospective majors.
Within Washington and Lee's curriculum, first-years have a large measure of choice in selecting courses. They should distribute their work in such a way as to acquire the fundamentals of a liberal education, selecting courses which will begin to satisfy the foundation and distribution requirements (FDRs) and enable them to explore possibilities for a major or to continue study in a field of special interest. Since all first-year students are carrying out this general course of study, they enroll in the College, regardless of the major they plan to pursue. Those who plan to major in accounting and business administration, business administration, economics, politics, or public accounting will not enter the Williams School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics until the end of their sophomore year.
The academic load for first-years is normally between 12 and 14 credits for the fall and winter terms (usually four courses, exclusive of physical education) and six credits for the spring term. A candidate for any undergraduate degree must present a total of 115 credits, which averages out to 12-12-6 each year.
Degree Requirements and the First Year
Students need to demonstrate particular proficiencies in order to meet the foundation and distribution requirements. They can do this by taking placement examinations or by passing particular courses. For a description of the goals behind these requirements see the 2007-2008 catalog or the Web page at registrar.wlu.edu/curriculum/fdr.htm . First-year students will see two structures for core requirements listed in publications; however the general education requirements (GE) are for students who matriculated prior to fall 2007 and the foundation and distribution requirements (FDR) are for the first-year classes beginning in fall, 2007 (Class of 2011 and later).
In summary, the current foundation and distribution requirements are:
Foundation
FW: Writing Foundation - Demonstrate proficiency by taking
an exam or one course.
FL: Foreign Language Foundation - Demonstrate proficiency through
intermediate level by taking an exam or courses.
FM: Mathematics or Computer Science Foundation (FM) - proficiency by taking
one course.
FP: Physical Education Foundation (FP) - swimming test and four skills
courses.
Distribution
Distribution in Arts and Humanities - four courses, at least one from each of the following areas:
HU: Humanities
HA: Arts
HL: Literature
Distribution in Sciences and Social Sciences - four courses from the following areas:
SL: Laboratory - Take one course.
SC: Additional Science, Mathematics or Computer Science - Take one course, not used in FM or SL above.
SS: Social Sciences - Take two courses from at least two areas.
Courses taken on a Pass-Fail basis do not meet FDR requirements.
In addition to planning their course of study with these Foundation and Distribution requirements in mind, first-year students should be sure to take the courses which are prerequisites for later work they desire. If they are interested in working toward a degree of Bachelor of Science or toward the degree of Bachelor of Arts with a major in science (this includes students considering health-related careers), they should register for mathematics and science in their first year. All students, in planning their first year, should examine the requirements for any major of potential interest listed under "Courses of Study" in the Catalog.
Advanced Placement (AP, IB, and GCE)
First-year students who have performed well on Advanced Placement Program examinations conducted by The College Board may be considered for advanced placement in college courses and credit toward graduation, at the discretion of the department heads involved. Most departments require a score of "4" or "5" before granting credit will be considered. Specific departmental policies are maintained on the Web page at registrar.wlu.edu/policies/ap.htm.
If credit is awarded and is assigned an equivalent W&L course number, that W&L course may not then be taken by the student for additional credit. The student may take such a course, but the Advanced Placement credit will be removed from degree credits. Credits designated as "elective" do not duplicate W&L course work and allow the student to take any courses in the same discipline for which they are then qualified.
Washington and Lee University will consider for credit or advanced placement International Baccalaureate courses with Higher-Level examination results of 5, 6 or 7. Decisions for or against awarding credit or placement are made by the department concerned on an individual basis and is outlined at registrar.wlu.edu/policies/ib.htm. Information about GCE A-level credit is available at registrar.wlu.edu/policies/gce.htm .
By the time first year students first meet with their initial faculty advisers at orientation, a list of Advanced Placement credits awarded by each department will be available to students and their advisers, and will be posted on WebAdvisor for Students. Questions may be addressed to University Registrar Scott Dittman, ext. 8455 or registrar@wlu.edu.
First-year Student Requests for Transfer Credit
First-year students who wish to be awarded credit at W&L for courses previously taken at another accredited college or university should obtain a First-year Student Credit Transfer Form (also included in the "Guidebook for New Students") from the University Registrar and return it with the requested information (course description and syllabus, official college transcript, information on instructor, location, and texts). Forms and transcripts received by August 15 will be evaluated by the appropriate department heads in time for the initial advising session with each student. These courses are often prerequisites for work first-year students plan to undertake in their first term, so it is important for students to have records sent as soon as possible. No college course will be transferred if it has been used to meet one of W&L's entrance requirements. Only work comparable to that at Washington and Lee in level, nature, and field may be accepted for degree credit.
Students undergo placement testing during Orientation. Details about placement testing are presented at the Orientation Academic Advising session and placement test results are listed on WebAdvisor and shared with advisers. Students who wish to continue a foreign language study at W&L, and have two or more years of high school study in that language, will take a placement test during orientation. The test score will determine the language class you will be eligible to take at Washington and Lee during the Fall 2008 term. The Mathematics and English departments also administer placement tests. Full details about the times and test recommendations can be found on the Orientation Schedule.
In many fields optional placement tests for entering first-year students and advanced placement reports will determine what level of work the student should pursue.
In choosing courses, first-years should consider that their skills in mathematics and language study may deteriorate if they do not continue work in them immediately.
First-year students are not allowed to take a course under the Pass/Fail grading option in any course which is offered on a graded basis, with the exception of 100- and 200-level physical education.
Courses numbered between 100 and 199 are introductory courses or sequences usually open to all first-year students. Because of limitations in enrollment, however, some may be closed to first-years. (They may be encouraged, of course, to take these courses later in their college career.) Some courses are listed with an FS: designation and these are first-year seminars with a smaller class size and they are taught with a seminar-style pedagogy.
Courses numbered 200-299 are intermediate courses ordinarily taken by sophomores or juniors or, in the spring term by first-years. First-year students often qualify for these courses by having scored well on placement examinations, achieving advanced standing by other means, or by having received special permission from the department concerned.
Courses numbered 300-399 and 400-499 (independent work) are advanced courses ordinarily taken by juniors and seniors. A first-year student can qualify for one of these courses only by special permission of the department or instructor or by exceptional achievement prior to entering W&L.
Course Recommendations by Academic Disciplines
Accounting
and Business
Administration
Recommended for prospective accounting majors in the first and/or
sophomore year:
Economics 101 and 102
Accounting 201 and 202
Interdepartmental 201 and 202
Recommendations are the same as those for Accounting and Business Administration. In addition the prospective major should talk to the department head (Elizabeth Oliver, ext. 8637) and consider picking up as many extra credits as possible by going to summer school (each student may transfer in as many as 14 credit hours) or, possibly, by overloading.
AFRICAN-AMERICAN STUDIES
Students seeking to complete the Program in
African-American Studies typically begin with African-American Studies 130: An
Introduction to African-American Studies. However, other courses in the program
may also be taken in any sequence, though generally we recommend that students
should wait until the sophomore year to take those courses numbered at the 300
level. This program requires a student to complete 21 credits in seven courses.
Students should consult with Professor Marc Conner, Director of the Program in
African-American Studies, Payne 32B, 458-8924.
ARCHAEOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY
Prospective
majors should complete Anthropology 101 and Sociology 102 and consult with
Professors Bell (Newcomb Hall), Goluboff (Newcomb 31A), or Novack (Newcomb 32).
ART
Recommended
for prospective art majors:
Art
History: 101 and 102
(15 spaces held in 101 for first-years in fall term), 140, and 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 250 or 252;
Studio Art: 121 (12 spaces held for first-years in fall term), 122, 131 (10
spaces held for first-years in fall and winter), 160, 217, 221, 231.
Recommended for first-year students taking art course for a humanities distribution, who have had some
background in art or art history:
Art History: 101 and 102 (15 spaces held in 101 for first-years in fall term), 140,
202, 203, 204, 206, or 252;
Studio Art: 121 (12 spaces held for first-years in
fall term), 122, 131 (10 spaces held for first-years in fall and winter), 160, 217, 221, 231.
Recommended for first-year students taking art courses for a humanities distribution, but who have had no background
in art or art history:
Art History: 101 and 102 (15 spaces held in 101 for first-years in fall term), 140,
(if background and interest in Asian art);
Studio Art: 121 (12 spaces held for first-years in
fall term), 122, 131 (10 spaces held for first-years in fall and winter), 160.
First-year students
interested in studio classes should speak to the instructor and bring examples
of their work if possible.
ASTRONOMY (see PHYSICS)
For first-year students taking biology for distribution requirements:
Biology 101, 105, 111 and 113 (note:
non-science majors are encouraged to take BIOL 111,113 in winter term)
Required for students planning to take advanced courses in biology:
Mathematics 101, 102, Biology 111,113, and Chemistry 111 and 112.
Recommended for students planning to take advanced
courses in biology:
Biology 220.
You are attending one of the finest liberal arts institutions in the country. Accordingly, prospective business administration majors should fully immerse themselves in the liberal arts upon enrollment and continue to take courses outside business during their time at W&L. Students are also urged to take as much mathematics as they are capable of handling. Be aware, however, that Mathematics 118 will NOT satisfy the statistics requirement for Business Administration majors. It is recommended that prospective majors take Economics 101 and 102 in the first or second year. Accounting 201 and 202 and Interdepartmental 201 and 202 should be taken by the end of the second year.
For first-year students taking chemistry courses for foundation and distribution requirements:
Chemistry 100 (fall term, alternate years) and Chemistry 106 (spring term) both provide a four-credit laboratory science course. Chemistry 111 and 112 also meet a distribution requirement, but they are intended only for students who plan to use science professionally (e.g., scientists, engineers, doctors, and other health professionals).
For first-years taking chemistry courses as part of any science major or in preparation for health professions:
Chemistry 111 and 112;
Mathematics 101 and 102 are required in most science majors.
For prospective chemistry or biochemistry majors in their first year, a desirable schedule is:
Chemistry 111, 112.
Mathematics
(for health professions, through Math 102; for B.S. in chemistry or
chemistry-engineering, Math 221).
English
(complete the Writing Foundation).
Foreign
Language Foundation.
The Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures (EALL) at Washington and Lee offers a major with an emphasis in either Chinese or Japanese. Students with no previous training in Chinese may elect Chinese 111 and 112. Students with previous training in Chinese should contact the EALL department head as soon as possible to determine appropriate placement.
The EALL major with an emphasis in
Chinese requires a minimum of three years of Chinese language.
Students should begin their language as early as possible preferably
during their first year. The department also recommends literature in
translation courses that relate to
Students should explore the resources available on the East Asian Languages and Literatures Web page where detailed information concerning all courses in language (CHIN, JAPN) and literature (LIT) and culture is available. The URL is: http://eall.wlu.edu .
Who should take the placement test in Latin? All incoming students with academic experience in Latin and intending to study Latin at Washington and Lee should take this diagnostic test. Those who intend to continue their studies in these languages must take the placement exam. Students with no prior experience of Latin need not take the placement test. Also, student who have scored at lest 4 on the Advanced Placement Latin test need not take the diagnostic test. Such students should consider studying Latin at the advanced (or 300)-level. Finally, students not intending to study Latin at Washington and Lee need not take the diagnostic test.
Students with academic experience of ancient Greek and wishing to continue their study at Washington and Lee should consult Professor Kevin Crotty ( x 8910). A good time to do this is during orientation - the morning that the Latin diagnostic test is administered.
Recommended
for prospective classics majors:
Latin
and/or Greek;
Courses
in classics, ancient art, ancient philosophy, and ancient history.
Suggested for first-year students taking classics
for FDRs:
Classics/Literature
in Translation 200, 201, 203, 204
Latin
and/or Greek at appropriate level to satisfy either the language or the
literature requirement.
LATIN - Students interested in taking Latin are
offered a placement test. On the basis of this test result, sometimes combined
with a review of the student's secondary experience, a placement recommendation
is made. If there is any reason to doubt the appropriateness of this placement
recommendation the adviser should send the student to see a representative of
the Classics Department. Students with no prior Latin study are welcome in Latin
101, and one might point out that the language requirement can be met by
successful completion of only twelve credits. All upper levels of Latin are open
to first-year students based on qualifications.
A note of caution to advisers: It is not a good idea to recommend Latin to students who claim that they are not good at languages. Students signing up for Latin 101 should be made aware that it is a very challenging course, and requires considerable diligence if the student is to do well.
GREEK
- It is unusual for an entering student to have studied Greek on the secondary
level. Any such student who expresses a desire to continue study of this
language should be referred to a representative of the Classics Department.
First-years are welcome in Greek 101.
CLASSICS
- Classics/Literature in Translation 200, 201, 203, 204 and 238 are appropriate for
entering students with a normal secondary background. In the case of Classics
221, 224, and 295, first-year students should consult the professor, since the subject matter
may presuppose a certain level of sophistication.
Computer Science Courses for First-year Students - Advice for Fall 2008
Students may satisfy the Foundations Mathematics requirement by taking either
Computer Science 101 or Computer Science 111.
Computer Science 101 is intended for students who wish to take just one course
in computer science or want an overview of the field in breadth and depth.
Students who simply want to fulfill the FM requirement should be
placed here. There are currently 30 seats available in Computer Science 101.
Computer Science 111 is intended for students who want a disciplined
introduction to programming and problem solving. Students who are potential
majors or who might want programming experience for other coursework should be
placed here. There are currently 20 seats available in Computer Science 111.
Although all introductory courses are offered in fall and winter, students who
want to take Computer Science 112 in the winter should enroll on Computer
Science 111 in the fall.
General Advice
For students wanting to take a single
course as a survey of the field:
Computer Science 101 (4) Survey of
Computer Science. This course satisfies
FM. It is not
intended for majors, but would provide a good background for further study in
computer science.
For prospective computer science majors and students wanting a concentration of courses in computer science: Computer Science 111 (4) Fundamentals of Programming I and Computer Science 112 (4), Fundamentals of Programming II
Programming in both courses is in the Python programming language. Computer Science satisfies FM and Computer Science 112 satisfies SC. Computer Science 111 is intended as an entry course for the major or informal concentration in computer science. The course is required for the major and is a prerequisite for the next courses in the major. Students who want to take Computer Science 112 in the winter term are encouraged to register for Computer Science 111 in the fall term of that year. Both courses are offered fall and winter.
For science students wanting a programming course with scientific applications: Computer Science 121 (4) Scientific Computing . This course satisfies FM and is offered winter term. The programming is done in MatLab, a scientific-computing software package.
EAST ASIAN LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES
East Asian Studies is an interdisciplinary program offering some 50 courses in seven departments. Students who complete the requirements will have a notation on their transcript indicating completion of the program in East Asian Studies. It is possible to focus on either China or Japan. Students interested in this program are encouraged to sign up for courses relevant to East Asia; study of Chinese or Japanese language is encouraged. For more information about the program, consult the catalog and contact the program director, Timothy Lubin.
Students majoring in economics are required to begin with the two-semester sequence in principles of economics, Economics 101 and 102. Although these classes are open to all first-year students, those considering an economics major are particularly encouraged to enroll in these courses. Economics 101 is offered in both fall and winter terms. Students planning to major in economics should enroll in Economics 210 upon completion of the principles sequence. In addition, Interdepartmental 201, Interdepartmental 202, and Economics 203 are usually completed during the sophomore year. The remainder of the economics major can readily be completed during the junior and senior years.
EDUCATION (Teacher
Licensure)
First-years wishing to qualify for the
Virginia state license for teaching in public schools must take a variety of
course in three areas – general education, professional education, and student
teaching – under the guidance of an approved program. Key foundation and
distribution courses that will assist in gaining licensure are Psychology 113,
Principles of Development, History 107, and 108, History of the United States,
and any 100 level mathematics course. Currently, completing the coursework for
licensure requires taking advantage of the exchange program we have with Mary
Baldwin College. Thus, students pursuing teacher licensure complete the majority
of their coursework at Washington and Lee but also must enroll in one or two
courses at Mary Baldwin. Careful planning and time management are needed to
prepare for teaching while also fulfilling all Washington and Lee degree
requirements.
First-year students interested in teaching should see Lenna Ojure, Director of Teacher Education, as soon as possible during the first year to discuss sequencing for education courses.
ENGINEERING
Courses for prospective physics/engineering or chemistry/engineering majors
(including those interested in 3-2 programs) in their first year
should include:
Physics 111A
& 113 (3+1 credits, fall, SL or SC) and 112A & 114 (3+1 credits,
winter, SL or SC) calculus-based introductory physics sequence with laboratory.
Prerequisite for advanced courses and required for physics and engineering
majors. Physics 111A and 112A are special first-year-only sections.
Mathematics 101 (FM or SA), 102 (SC) (or higher) students should enter the calculus sequence at the level suggested by the mathematics department.
Engineering
160 (3 credits, spring, SC) computer-aided design.
Who
should take the placement test? A
placement test, consisting of an essay, will be given during orientation
week to determine either exemption from the requirement in English
composition or placement in an appropriate course. Students who have
received credit from Washington and Lee through Advanced Placement examination results in English need not take
the test; for most other students the test is mandatory; for students
with an SAT verbal score or SAT II Writing score of 700+, the test
is optional. Students will be notified by e-mail and by dorm counselors
whether they are in the mandatory or optional groups (see Exemption
information). A list of the results of the test will
be sent to all faculty advisers in time for registering
their advisees. Students
who are not exempt must take a composition course during the fall or winter term
of their first year. Recommended
for prospective English majors in their first year: Any 200-level literature course (English 203-294) may be
used to fulfill major requirements at that level. After taking one 200-level
literature course, a prospective major may elect to enroll in English 299,
Seminar for Prospective Majors, which is the gateway to upper-level courses.
Sections of English 299 are offered in fall and winter.
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Students
interested in environmental studies have two options at Washington and Lee. The
Geology Department offers a major in
environmental geology leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree. This is
described in detail under the Geology Department listings. Students majoring in
other areas may elect to complete the interdisciplinary program
in environmental studies. Upon completion of the course sequence
outlined below, students receive a notation on the transcript that they have
taken the "Program in Environmental Studies". The program is designed
so that students from different majors can focus on an issue of common interest.
Note that many of the courses in the program contribute to general education
requirements.
The
Environmental Studies Program requires completion of the following 25 or 26
credits:
1)
Required courses: Environmental Studies 110, 397
2)
Social Sciences: one course from each of the following two areas.
a)
Economics 101, Politics 100
b)
Economics 255, Economics 381, Environmental Studies 240, Politics 233
3)
Natural and Physical Sciences: one course from each of the
following two areas.
a)
Biology 101, Geology 100 or 101
b)
Biology 245, 246, Geology 141, 150
4)
Humanities: one course chosen from English 380 (when appropriate),
Environmental Studies 395, Philosophy 260
First-year students are advised to begin the interdisciplinary program by taking
Environmental Studies
110 (3), Introduction to Environmental Studies. This course counts as credits
towards the social science general education requirement (Area 6), though it
does not fulfill one of the required two areas.
Other courses first-year students should consider include Biology 101, Geology 100 or 101,
Philosophy 108, Economics 101, or Politics 100. These courses serve as prerequisites to several
other environmental studies courses. For a full list of courses with
environmental themes, refer to the "Environmental Studies" section in
the Catalog.
NOTE: Students taking ENV 110 (3) for General Education area 6 will still have to take their remaining six hours from TWO different groups.
Information about the interdisciplinary program may be obtained from Jim Kahn,
Director of the Environmental Studies Program.
FRENCH
Who should take the placement test?
All incoming students who used French for their entrance requirement
in foreign language should take the placement test. We strongly recommend that
students take the placement test even if they do not intend to take that
language at Washington and Lee.
Recommended for the first year for prospective French majors:
(a)
French 111 & 112, 161 & 162, 213, 215, 261, 271, 272, 273 and 300-level
courses, depending upon proficiency demonstrated on entrance.
(c)
French 111 has limited enrollment and preference is given to students with no prior preparation in French.
We strongly recommend that all first-years who place into the intermediate course
(French 161) register for that course rather than postponing registration until
the sophomore year. The placement test results are only valid for
the current semester.
Recommended
for students interested in study abroad:
French
111& 112, 161& 162, 213, 215, 261, 271, 272, 273, depending upon proficiency
demonstrated on entrance.
First-year students may enroll in the following courses (*some not offered every year):
Geology 100 (4) General Geology with Field Emphasis--Fall
Geology 101
(4) General Geology—Winter*
Geology 102
(3) History and Evolution of the Earth—Winter*
Geology 135
(1) Meteorology—Winter*
Geology 141
(3) Global Climate Change—Winter*
Geology 160
(3) Field Geology--Spring
Geology 185
(1) Computer Application in Geology--(1 cr.P/F)--Fall
Geology 201
(3) Oceanography—Winter*
Geology 373
(3) Regional Geology Field Course--Spring
For prospective geology or environmental geology majors, we advise the following geology courses:
Fall Term Geology 100 or 101
Winter Term Geology 102 or 201
Spring Term Geology 160 and 373.
Students interested in a Geology major are encouraged to
take Geology 100 or 101 early. These courses are prerequisites for most of the
other courses in the department. Because major requirements include many courses
with one or more prerequisites, students who express an interest in any of the
earth sciences (geology, geophysics, environmental geology, earth science
teaching, etc.) need to plan their course of study carefully. Members of the
department will be glad to assist any adviser who needs help in this matter.
Who should take the placement test? Any student who intends to study German.
Recommended for first-year students taking German courses:
Students
with no previous training in German may elect German 111 & 112 (emphasis on spoken
language as well as grammar and reading).
Students
with previous training in German should take the German Department's proficiency
test and may enroll in courses at the level recommended by the department.
Note the availability of study in Germany during the spring term: German 263, for which German 111-112 (beginning) are the best preparation, and German 303, for which German 261-262 or 311-312 (advanced) are the best preparation.
Required for prospective German majors in their
first year:
Appropriate German courses as suggested by
placement tests, preferably courses emphasizing the spoken and written language
(German 111 & 112, 261 & 262, 311) or literature (313, 314), if the first-year
student receives advanced placement.
Recommended related courses for prospective German
majors in their first year:
Literature
(including English), and European history. (FDR's HL and HU respectively).
Prospective majors should ask the department head for the list of related courses that can be applied toward the major.
GREEK (See Classics)
HEALTH PROFESSIONS
Required in the first year for students
considering health professions (medicine, dentistry, etc.):
Mathematics 101 and
102;
Chemistry 111
and 112, or Biology 111, 113, 220, and 221.
If a
student is preparing for a career in dentistry, physical therapy, or veterinary
medicine, Biology is the best starting place. If planning a Biology major,
the student should enroll in Biology 111 and 113 in the fall term of the first
year. Students preparing for a career in medicine and not planning a
biology major, should consider starting with Chemistry 111, so that they may
take biochemistry before taking the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT).
Recommended in the first year for students considering health professions:
English:
complete the Writing Foundation. At least one advanced course (200 or above) is
needed for medical school admission, but may be taken as an upperclassman. Refer
to the booklet "Medical School Admission Requirements" in the Chemistry
Department, the Biology department, or the Science library, and to the Health
Professions website:
http://chemistry.wlu.edu/HealthProfessions.html .
Foreign Language Foundation: continue to completion as soon as feasible.
Other recommendations vary with choice of major department.
Recommended for first-year students taking history courses:
Any history course numbered 100-195.
Recommended for history majors before their junior year: At least six credits in any combination from History 101-195.
A limited number of upper-level history courses may be open to first-year students with AP or IB credit upon consultation with the course instructor.
No major offered.
First-year students with advanced standing should consult with the Head of the Department of Romance Languages.
JAPANESE
The Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures (EALL) at Washington and
Lee offers a major with an emphasis in either Chinese or Japanese.
Students with no previous training in Japanese may elect Japanese 111 and
112. Students with previous training
in Japanese should contact the EALL department head as soon as possible to
determine appropriate placement.
The EALL major with an emphasis in
Japanese requires a minimum of three years of Japanese language.
Students should begin their language as early as possible preferably
during their first year. The department also recommends literature in
translation courses that relate to
Students should explore the resources available on the East Asian Languages and Literatures Web page where detailed information concerning all courses in language (CHIN, JAPN) and literature (LIT) and culture is available. The URL is: http://eall.wlu.edu
JOURNALISM AND MASS COMMUNICATIONS
The major has three sequences. Two of the sequences - Journalism and
Business Journalism are for students planning journalism careers, and the more
general Mass Communications sequence is designed for those who envision a career in
advertising or public relations, who plan to attend law school, or who seek a
general liberal arts major.
Required of all prospective majors:
Completion of the foundation requirement in
English
All prospective majors should take
Journalism 101 in the first year. Journalism 201, Introduction to Reporting, is open to first-years and sophomores who have completed Journalism 101.
Students interested in the Business Journalism sequence or in advertising or
public relations also should take Economics 101 and 102 (available to first-year
students).
Note: Familiarity with personal computers is important
See the Department's web site at http://journalism.wlu.edu , or the University catalog for details.
LATIN (See Classics)
LATIN AMERICAN AND CARIBBEAN STUDIES
The Program in Latin American and Caribbean Studies aims to teach students about the commonalities and diversity within the region through an interdisciplinary study of its civilizations, cultures, and societies. Check the program Web site -- http://lacs.wlu.edu/ -- for appropriate courses offered each term, many of which serve as FDRs or meet other major requirements.
Advise for first-years: Students should plan to take LACS 101 as early in their career as possible as well as other courses that meet the distribution requirement below. First-year students should continue their language study at the appropriate level and ultimately pursue advanced language courses in French, Portuguese, and/or Spanish (The FDR must be completed in Spanish or French. Portuguese requires approval from the Program Head.) Finally, students should begin to seek advise early on about the many spring term and independent study abroad opportunities available to Program members. Interested students should contact Professor Jeff Barnett, Tucker Hall 202.
MATHEMATICS
(1) had at least a
half-year of calculus (not necessarily an AP course) For students taking mathematics courses to satisfy
foundation and distribution requirements: For those awarded advanced placement credit by the
department: For prospective mathematics majors in their first year: While there are definite advantages to taking the first
mathematics course during Fall Term, it should be noted that both Math 101 and
Math 121 will be offered in Winter Term. If there is sufficient demand, Math
118, Math 122, or Math 195 will be offered in Spring Term. *Please note: Students who have not had a calculus
course in high school and who wish to take a beginning calculus course at W&L
must enroll in 101B (B is for a beginner in calculus); students who have taken a
calculus course in high school yet who wish to take a calculus course at W&L
must enroll in any of the other flavors of Math 101 (101A, 101C, 101D, etc) or
with proper placement, Math 102 or Math 221. All flavors of Math 101 are
beginning calculus courses and all prepare students to take Math 102.
Nonetheless, to guarantee the best possible experience, it is imperative that
the student enroll in the proper variety of first term calculus.
MEDIEVAL AND RENAISSANCE STUDIES
MUSIC
A
student considering a major in music with an emphasis in performance
should see the Department Head as soon as possible.
Any student wanting to concentrate in performance must perform
before a faculty jury before the end of the sophomore year.
Therefore, the Department strongly urges any potential performance
students to take applied music (Music 141, 142, 143) as soon as they enter the
University.
Neuroscience is the interdisciplinary
understanding of the structure and function of the brain and how it is involved
in controlling behavior. Neuroscience draws from biology, chemistry, psychology,
mathematics and the computational sciences. First-years interested in Neuroscience should consider taking Biology 111,
Psychology 111, or Chemistry 111.
PHILOSOPHY
Philosophy 101, 102, 106, 108; 101 and 102 are
open only to first-years and sophomores. If especially interested, first-year
students may take Philosophy 141, 142, 144, 152, 168, and 195. Exceptionally
qualified first-years may be permitted to take certain 200- and
300-level courses, but they should first consult the instructor.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Additional information regarding the PE requirements may
be found in the 2008-2009 Catalog, or on the Physical Education department web
site at
athletics.wlu.edu/physical_education/ .
Courses for
prospective physics and/or engineering majors in their first year should
include:
Physics 111A
& 113 (3+1 credits, fall, SL or SC) and Physics 112A & 114
(3+1 credits, winter, SL or SC) A traditional introductory physics sequence, with
calculus co-requisite. 111A and 112A are first-year-only sections.
Prerequisite for advanced courses and
required for physics and engineering majors.
Mathematics
101 (FM or SC), 102 (SC) (or higher) students should enter the calculus sequence at the
level suggested by the mathematics department.
For students taking
physics courses for distribution credit:
Physics
111A
&
113 (3+1 credits, fall, SL or SC) and 112A
&
114 (3+1 credits, winter, SL or SC) Calculus-based
introductory physics sequence with laboratory.
Accessible
to those who have had a comfortable experience with junior and senior science
and mathematics in high school. 111A
and 112A count for
additional science distribution requirement, or when taken with Physics 113 (1
credit laboratory, fall) and/or Physics 114 (1 credit laboratory, winter) count
for laboratory science distribution credit.
Physics 115 (3 credits,
spring, SC) Non-major introduction to topics in modern physics.
Physics 150
(4 credits, fall, SL or SC), Physics 151 (4 credits, spring, SL or SC) introductory astronomy
courses, with laboratory, using high school mathematics only; accessible to
first-year students; permission required (6 to 10 spaces held open for
first-year students each term.)
Counts for laboratory science distribution credit or additional science credit.
For first-year students taking politics courses for
distribution requirements:
Politics 100 (American National
Government), 105 (Global Politics), 111 (Introduction to Political
Philosophy).
Recommended for prospective politics majors in
the first year:
Required politics courses (Politics 100,
105, 111)
Required 100-level courses in politics
may be taken in any order
Economics 101 and 102
European and American history
General education mathematics and
computer science courses.
Who should take the Placement Test?
The mathematics placement test should only be taken by students who satisfy all
the following four criteria:
(2) have not taken either of the Advanced Placement calculus exams (if you took
the exams and know your score, then we know what course you should take)
(3) do not have IB or calculus transfer credit (higher level with a 5, 6, or 7
should receive credit), and
(4) wish to take second (or third) term calculus at W&L and earn six (or nine)
credits, three for Math 101 and three for Math 102.
Math 101*, followed by Math 102 or 118 or 195 or
Math 121, followed by Math 122 or 195.
Math 102, followed by Math 221 or 118 or 195 or
Math 221, followed by Math 222 or 118 or 195.
Math 101 and 102, or,if placed by the department, Math 102, 221, and 222, (or
Math 221, 222, and 301).
A prospective major should plan to complete Math 301 by the end of the sophomore
year.
Prospective majors should take Medieval and Renaissance Studies 110
(Medieval and Renaissance Culture) in their first or sophomore year.
Because of the nature of the interdisciplinary major, students are encouraged to
take relevant 200-level courses at their own discretion. For a listing of
courses included in the Medieval and Renaissance Studies program, see the 2007-2008 Course Catalog. For further information contact the Program Chair,
George Bent, Associate Professor of Art, Wilson Hall 3016 (ext. 8863) or
e-mail to bentg@wlu.edu .
The following courses in music are recommended for first-years:
Music 120 (offered Fall-Winter) and Music 100 (Spring) are recommended for
first-year students and meet a distribution (HA) requirement.
Music 220, 221, 231 and 232 meet distribution requirements and may be taken with the permission
of the instructor.
Music 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 114, 115 and applied music (141, 142,143) are
open to first-years with permission from the
instructor, but do not meet foundation or distribution
requirements.
The following courses are recommended for prospective music majors in their
first
year:
Music 120 should be taken in the first year and no later than the sophomore
year. Music
161 and 162, the first-year music theory courses are designed for music majors;
they must be taken no later than the sophomore year.
If possible they should be taken in the first year.
Please
note that Music 100 is designed primarily for non-majors and does
not count as a required course for the major.
Therefore, any prospective majors are urged to take Music 120, 161,
162, 131, or 132 instead.
Recommended for first-year students taking philosophy courses and for
prospective philosophy majors in their first year:
Students
must successfully complete four (4) 100- or 200-level courses and pass a
mandatory swimming test in order to earn the one credit in physical education
required for graduation. The physical education department strongly encourages
first-year students to begin taking PE courses during the fall term with the
goal of completing the requirement by the end of the sophomore year. All PE
registration is done as a part of the WebRegistration process. Please read the
information at
registrar.wlu.edu/registration/regpe.htm .
There will be PE orientation meetings on Wednesday, September 3, 2008, in the
Warner Center classroom; all first-year students are required to attend.
These meetings are in alphabetized groups and first-years should adhere to that
schedule. The required swimming proficiency tests will be administered following
these orientation sessions. You are asked to stress to your advisees that
their attendance at these meetings is required regardless of their swimming
proficiency.
First-year students are given the opportunity to elect whether the grade for the
one credit in physical education will be recorded as a letter grade or a
pass/fail grade. A pass/fail declaration must be made during the fall term no
later than Wednesday, October 15, 2008. If pass/fail is elected,
the decision is binding and no subsequent change is permitted. A student who
elects the letter grade option need make no declaration of any kind.
Poverty and Human
Capability 102 is a one-credit fieldwork course that may be taken concurrently
with or within one academic year of
Poverty and
Human Capability 101. It can count as part of the Shepherd Program concentration.
We also offer an advanced seminar for juniors, seniors, and second- and
third-year law students (Poverty and Human Capability 423). Students must
complete the summer internship or be granted special permission to take this
seminar. Completion of this seminar or another alternative capstone is required
for the Shepherd Program concentration.
These courses supplement any major, and when combined with disciplined-based courses, they constitute a program of study for which graduating students receive notation on their transcript. (See the current catalog and University Registrar's Web site.)
In addition, the
Shepherd Program offers lectures and seminars by visitors to Washington and Lee.
The Shepherd community-based learning coordinators also advise and assist with
other organizations and activities: the Nabors Service League; the Bonner Leader
Program, for which a few students are selected for financial assistance in order
to concentrate on service; Volunteer Venture, a Leading Edge pre-orientation
program for freshmen and student leaders; service-learning courses in various
departments; community-based research projects through CCPR; and the Campus
Kitchen at Washington and Lee. All of these service activities may be
integrated into students' academic studies.
This program is designed to enrich students' majors and to broaden their
thinking about their future vocations.
Poverty and Human Capability 101 (3) is recommended for first-years and
sophomores contemplating additional Shepherd Program involvement. It is the
principal gateway to other parts of the Program and counts for the humanities
distribution requirement. Although this course may be taken at any time during a
student’s matriculation, students who take it during their first year or in the
fall of their sophomore year can maintain a long-term involvement with the
volunteer and academic aspects of the Shepherd Program.
First-year students often take Poverty and Human Capability 102 (1) either in the fall or winter term. This one-credit practicum in volunteer service and reflection enables and requires students to relate the readings in 101 to experience working with persons disadvantaged by poverty. This course may also count among the required courses for the program of study. It should be taken concurrently with 101 or within one academic year after taking 101.
First-years who have taken Poverty 101 by the end of their first year may apply for Poverty and Human Capability 450 (0) This Shepherd Alliance Summer Internship supports students working full-time for eight-weeks with peers from other colleges in multiple fields: the arts, business, community organizing, education, healthcare, law, ministry, and social services. The interns work directly with impoverished persons and communities in urban and rural settings in the Eastern U.S. or in the developing world. This course may also be taken following a student’s freshmen, sophomore, or junior year. It is required for the program concentration and for enrolment in the capstone seminar. Financial assistance is available proportional to need.
PRE-LAW
There
is no specified pre-law major or curriculum because law schools do not require
applicants to have studied a particular list of subjects. Pre-law students
should select one of the regular undergraduate majors. The Association of
American Law Schools makes the following statements in reference to
undergraduate education: