The university’s undergraduate coursenumbering system is as follows:
- 100-200 level – freshman- and sophomorelevel courses
- 300-400 level – junior- and senior-level courses
Courses at the 100-200 level are primarily taken by freshmen and sophomores, but remain open to all students; they are introductory in nature, requiring little or no disciplinary preparation in terms of skill or knowledge. Completion of 100 – 200 level courses builds foundational academic skills and ensures that students are broadly educated and prepared for success in upper-level courses in their major.
Courses at the 300-400 level are primarily, but not exclusively, designed for juniors and seniors. These courses are more advanced, usually requiring prerequisite disciplinary competence or skill preparation for student success. They may include courses with various methodologies, extensive disciplinary breadth or depth, directed and independent studies, and both study abroad and internship opportunities. While the intention is to develop advanced skills and deepen specialized knowledge, courses may also focus on how knowledge is produced and utilized.
Responsibility for determining appropriate course levels and methodologies rests with faculty in the discipline or major. Faculty in the school housing the major or discipline will serve as a secondary level of review before proposed courses are sent to the Curriculum Committee, Faculty Senate, or included in the University Catalog.