University Seminar

The University Seminar program is a big part of your start at Lawrence Tech, and we’re proud of it. Here are a few questions and answers as you get ready to start!

What is University Seminar?
Who teaches University Seminar?
Why are there two versions of University Seminar?
Do transfer students need to take this course?
Where do I sign up for University Seminar?
What if I have other questions?

Q:  What is University Seminar?

A:  It’s a course you take in the first semester of your freshman year.  It helps you to make a successful transition into college and the professional environment by covering a broad range of topics and skills, such as what to expect in college, how to adapt, who does what, and some pitfalls to avoid.  The course is an introduction to the Lawrence Tech community, campus resources and services.  It also focuses on the development of academic, personal and interpersonal skills, such as time management, organization and leadership skills, which you will use throughout your college and professional careers.

Q: Who teaches University Seminar?

A: Faculty, staff, and administrators selected for their experience and interest in the course.

Q: Why are there two versions of University Seminar?

A: To fit different needs. Experience has proven that some students, particularly those with an Undeclared major, are better served by COM1002. The expanded version of the course has been designed to address the unique issues and choices facing these students.  It has all of COM 1001, plus additional emphasis on study skills, like using textbooks, acquiring listening and note-taking skills, preparing for and taking exams, studying in groups, and extra time on library and computer resources. If you’ve declared your major, you may choose either version of the course.

Q: Do transfer students need to take this course?

A:  All freshman students take this course – except that it’s optional if you:

• Have taken a comparable course at another college or university, OR
• Have completed 30 semester hours of work at another college or university (even if it didn’t all transfer).

Q: Where do I sign up for University Seminar?

A:  You register for it along with your other courses. You and your adviser choose which section best fits your needs.  In a very small number of cases, advisers may approve delaying the course until the second semester, but University rules don’t allow further postponement.

Q: What if I have other questions?

A:  Contact the Department of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Communication at (248)204-3520 or humchair@ltu.edu, or Jamie Hobart, Director of First Year Programs, at (248)204-3511 or hobart@ltu.edu.