Programs for Freshmen
Freshmen may enroll in Core programs, All-level programs and some programs designed for sophomores and above.
Core programs are designed to give you a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to prepare you for advanced studies. You will learn how to write more effectively, read carefully, analyze arguments, reason quantitatively or mathematically, work cooperatively in small groups and use campus resources such as the library. Core programs will introduce you to Evergreen's interdisciplinary studies, in which faculty members from different disciplines teach together to help you explore a central theme, topic or issue as a whole, rather than as a collection of unrelated fragments. You will be exposed to the connection of artistic expression to social conditions, for example, or to the relationship of biological facts to individual psychology. These integrated study programs combine several activities: seminars, individual conferences with faculty members, lectures, group work and, usually, field trips and laboratories. You will also learn the skills needed to design your own education.
The small student-faculty ratio in Core programs (23:1) ensures close interaction between you and your faculty and with other students.
All-level programs enroll a mix of freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors, with a typical mix of 25 percent freshmen. Like Core programs, they are interdisciplinary studies. Most students in these programs will already have some years of college experience, so you will get less guidance about basic skills development. Faculty expectations about what you know and what you can learn on your own will be greater. You should also be ready to work with a wide mix of students—in age, experience and stages of learning. Talk to Academic Advising about the background necessary to be in an All-level program.
Lower-division programs are designed as entry-level offerings that accept freshmen and sophomores. Lower-division programs include a mix of half freshmen and half sophomores.
Programs for sophomores and above may admit a particularly well-qualified freshman. These programs are listed in their respective planning units in the remainder of the catalog. Consult the faculty and Academic Advising if you are interested in one of these programs.