Math is the language in which the secrets of the universe are written. Galileo said that the Book of Nature is “written in mathematical language ... without which it is impossible to humanly understand a word.” 400 years later math continues to unlock mysteries of the cosmos and furnish the architecture of our data-driven daily lives.
First Semester Planning
We recommend that students register for approximately 15 credits each semester and no more than 16 credits in their first semester. Your schedule should be well-balanced and include coursework from a variety of subjects. A diverse schedule will help you begin your studies in potential majors and minors; explore a breadth of new knowledge across departments at Rutgers to meet SAS Core Curriculum learning goals; and survey broader academic interests through elective courses as you work to attain the required 120 degree credits for graduation.
Your schedule will look something like this:
College Writing or English course per placement results (3 credits) Major Exploration course (3-4 credits) Major or Minor Exploration course (3-4 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Byrne or First-Year Interest Group Seminar (FIGS) (1 credit) Total Credits: 15-16 |
Major Exploration Course(s) Recommended for Incoming First-Year Students
Introductory courses recommended by faculty. Include at least one of these in your schedule:
Students with a Precalculus or Calculus math placement AND Expository Writing English placement
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
General Biology | 01:119:115 | 4 | Biological Sciences (119) |
General Chemistry | 01:160:161 | 4 | Chemistry (160) |
Calculus-Based Math | 4 | Mathematics (640) |
Students without a Precalculus or Calculus math placement AND Expository Writing English placement
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Prep for General Biology | 01:119:199 | 4 | Biological Sciences (119) |
Calculus-Based Math | 4 | Mathematics (640) |
Course recommendations beyond this department
Your first year of college is an opportunity for you to explore fields of interest to enhance your understanding of yourself, the world around you, and your main academic and career goals. Think of your schedule as including courses you must take (English, courses to explore potential majors, etc.) and courses you can take (everything else!) All courses are part of your degree - if necessary, review the components of the SAS degree on this page.
Through these degree components, you will curate your own unique educational experience - but we understand that this level of flexibility and freedom can feel overwhelming for new students. Like a recommendation based on a book or TV show you enjoyed, the information below can help you identify related courses to consider in your first semester.
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
General Psychology | 01:830:101 | 3 | Psychology (830) |
Logic, Reasoning and Persuation | 01:730:101 | 3 | Philosophy (730) |
Computing for Math and the Sciences | 01:198:107 | 4 | Computer Science (198) |
Data 101 | 01:198:142 | 4 | Computer Science (198) |
Additional Information Beyond the Classroom
For your first semester, we want you to focus on selecting appropriate courses, begin to understand the expectations and rigor of college, and identify resources to help you succeed at Rutgers. But, we also know that it is important to provide information for future planning.
In addition to the information below, students interested in exploring possible career options may find this resource from the Office of Career Exploration and Success helpful - you'll find that a degree in this subject prepares you for a wide variety of career options!
What opportunities exist in the department for beyond the classroom learning (internships, research, field work, etc.)?
Many of our students take independent study reading courses that build on advanced undergraduate courses they have completed and which provide an introduction to research. There are also a number of Research Experience for Undergraduate programs available in the summer.
Is there a departmental Honors track or program?
Yes