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Freshmen

 

Where can I find out which English and math course I should take?

All you need to know about courses related to your EPT and ELM test scores can be found at ELM/EPT Requirements FAQ.

Should I take a Freshman Seminar class?

If you want to learn how the university works, get to know other freshmen, be a better student, and fulfill your GE Area E requirement, YES!

What about Learning Communities?

Learning Communities group about 25 freshmen together for 2 or 3 classes, one way of making our 28,000 student university more personal. Some Learning Communities include a Freshman Seminar - these are very popular!

What about my AP or IB test scores?

These are at AP and IB Credit FAQ.

I hear there's an honors program for freshmen...

Contact the Honors Program at: http://www.csus.edu/honorsprogram/.

Is it true that it's easier for freshmen to get on the Deans Honor List ?

Yep, you're in luck - you only need a 3.0 GPA, while sophomores, juniors and seniors need a 3.25 GPA.

I've heard you should finish your GE first, then take your major courses - is this a good idea?

No, it's not. If there's a major you're interested in, you should take some courses from that major along with GE courses. You can also choose GE courses to explore majors you might like.

How does advising work?

You are required to see an advisor each semester your freshman year. If your major does not require freshman advising, you will see an advisor in Academic Advising, Lassen 1012. You will be notified to make an appointment via email or My Sac State.

When do I become a sophomore?

Sophomore standing occurs after successfully completing 30 semester units. This may take longer than 2 semesters if you have to take preparatory English and/or math courses. You become a junior at 60 units, a senior at 90 units, and you need 120 units to graduate.

I would like to graduate in 4 years - is this possible?

It's possible, but it takes persistence, planning and financial support. Many students work and this makes it hard to complete 15 units (5 classes) every semester, which is what you have to do to finish the required 120 units in 4 years. Another problem is that a lot of students have to take preparatory English and/or math classes which don't count towards the 120 unit requirement.

I have a job - how many classes should I take?

Working too many hours and taking too many classes is the most common reason freshmen go on probation. Below are listed recommendations for balancing work and school:

  • Working less than 15 hours per week >> OK to take 5 classes
  • Working up to 24 hours per week >> Limit to 4 classes
  • Working up to 30 hours per week >> Limit to 3 classes
  • Working up to 40 hours per week >> Limit to 2 classes