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  1. Academics

First Year Experience

Gateway Course

Big Ideas in Computing and Information, a new gateway course, will be required of all incoming first-year students. Through a combination of lectures, guest talks, and skills labs, this course will provide you with an understanding of the numerous connections between computing and information and other disciplines; the commonalities and differences between the problems, tools, and methodologies of various computing and information sub-disciplines; and basic technical skills that will serve you as you advance through any computationally-oriented degree program. You will also be introduced to a variety of core principles and important themes that cross-cut this array of computing- and information- oriented disciplines, as well as explore the types of work that individuals educated in these disciplines engage in.

First-Year Seminar

A 1-credit First-Year Seminar will also be required of all incoming students. This course will provide you with an introduction to the School and the University of Pittsburgh. A combination of large group informational sessions, small group discussions, and activities will address a range of issues including:

  • Academic mechanics (e.g., advising, registration, university structure, financial aid, academic and professional communication)
  • Academic support services and opportunities (e.g., tutoring centers, study abroad, internships and co-ops, undergraduate research)
  • Student support services (e.g., career services, counseling center, student health services)
  • Other student opportunities (e.g., Pitt FYE, campus recreation, cheap seats)

Personalized Advising

You will be assigned to a full time academic adviser with whom you will work during your entire time as an undergraduate in our school. The relationship you build with your academic advisor will be integral to your intellectual, personal, and professional growth. Academic advisors will help you to make informed educational choices regarding course selection as well as co-curricular and experiential education opportunities.