First-Year Students

A year-long enriched academic experience open to most first-year, residential students.

Living-Learning Communities provide you with an opportunity to live and take courses with other incoming first-year students who share your personal interests, passions or intended academic major.  

You can apply when you register for Connection Day.

Living-Learning Communities are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. The applications will be available in early April to deposited students.

What types of Living-Learning Communities are available?

You can select from a wide range of living-learning communities that are divided into two groups:

• Major-specific communities are based on academic interests and intended majors or minors
• Special-interest communities are based on common interests among students such as community service or leadership

Learning Opportunities

Living-Learning Community Freshman Seminar

Living-Learning Communities include a freshman seminar. UFSP 102 is a one-credit, freshman seminar on a topic related to the Living-Learning Community theme and connected to the Living-Learning Community experience. Note: Students in the World of Business and Accounting take UFSP 103 which counts as the School of Business core class requirement BBUS 100.

How to Apply

You can apply for a Living-Learning Community when you register for Connection Day. In the application, please tell us why you want to be a member of your chosen community and what you hope to gain from the experience.

Also, you must complete the housing application. You can request a roommate, but both students must be eligible for, apply to and be accepted to the same community for you to be placed together in an L-LC. 

You will be notified by mid-June if you have been accepted into the Living-Learning Community. This allows you to work with your advisor in the summer Orientation session to plan your fall schedule which includes two to three classes linked to the Living-Learning Community.

Please contact us at [email protected] if you have any questions about the L-LCs.

This zero-credit engagement course is designed to help you engage with faculty and staff, find campus resources and support offices and take advantage of opportunities to apply what you are learning. 

These sections are for students directly admitted into certain schools and colleges at UAlbany.

Learning Outcomes 

You can set yourself up to succeed in your first semester at UAlbany by taking this transitional support course to meet a group of new students just like you, engage in an interactive classroom and be eligible to win fun raffles and prizes.

Select Your Course

Please contact your academic advisor about which UUNI 99 engagement course may be right for you.

Freshman seminars provide an enriched academic experience and are required for all first-year students.

At UAlbany, we offer three types of freshman seminars:  1-credit classes on interesting topics, 1-credit classes on academic planning and 3-credit classes that focus on your transition to college.

• UFSP 100 seminars cover various interesting topics (1 credit)

• UUNI 120 seminars help you create an academic plan for your success (1 credit)

• UUNI 105 seminars to help you transition to college and improve their academic skills  (3 credits)

UFSP 100 Freshman Seminar Course Topics (1 Credit)

These 1-credit classes are designed specifically for first-year students to get to know each other and a member of our faculty in a small class setting. 

They are great opportunities to learn about a cutting-edge topic from our best faculty while getting to know more about UAlbany. 

They introduce you to college-level learning and provide you with an intimate learning experience designed to help you acclimate to the academics at UAlbany. 
 

#4463: World of East Asian Studies

Specifically designed for freshmen studying Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, this seminar will help you understand the culture and background for these East Asian languages. You will meet faculty members from across the department of East Asian Studies. The discussion section gives you the opportunity to have lunch in the dining hall with the professor and other students interested in East Asian cultures and languages.
 

# 4690: The Science of Storms, Climate Change, and Environmental Impacts

Whether it is checking the weather forecast on the way to school, saving energy on a hot summer day, or taking shelter from a severe thunderstorm, we have an important and close relationship with our planet and its future. Along with important lessons on the transition from high school to college, this course will cover major topics taught by experts in the Department of Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, such as sustainability, energy and resources, hazardous weather and forecasting, and climate change. Enrolling will be a great opportunity to get to know faculty in the department and meet your UAlbany peers who share the same passion for the atmosphere and environmental you do. Recommended for those interested in majoring in Atmospheric, Climate, or Environmental Sciences.
 

#5271: Food and our Future: Understanding Science Literacy through Sustainability

We often read and hear about scientific studies in popular media, but how do we understand and use them? In this class, students will study basic concepts of science literacy – civic, practical, and cultural – while learning about issues related to food sustainability, such as food supply, production, and consumption. Students will get familiar with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Course activities will include examining case studies and learning basic principles of online research. Upon completing the course, students will have gained a better understanding of food sustainability, as well as of the importance of science literacy in their academic and personal pursuits.
 

#6071: How Does your Brain Decide?

This freshman seminar will look at the psychological and neuroscience principles of how people make decisions ranging from buying a stock in the stock markets during a bubble to the more moral decisions about choosing between alternatives as in the famous trolley dilemma. The idea we will pursue is that these decisions come out of a part of the brain that underlies your current awareness of who you are, about which you can talk; and a part of the brain that is outside of this awareness but shapes your response through emotion and skill learning. We will further look at ways a college education that is grounded in classical academic learning and deep experiences in one’s chosen or expected field, can develop maturity and professional knowledge that greatly help students succeed after they graduate from college.
 

#6072: Why Museums?

Did you know UAlbany has a contemporary art museum on campus that is free and open to the public? Join Berly Brown, Education Coordinator, as we examine how museums have transformed, and continue to transform, our interpretation and construction of contemporary culture. Go behind the scenes with guest artists and museum professionals to gain firsthand knowledge about how museums have become active social spaces that engage visitors in critical conversations about vital issues affecting us all. Add your voice as we imagine museums of the future.
 

#6265: Catching Killers: DNA in the Brave New World

Advances in DNA technology have transformed the criminal justice system in the United States. Long dormant “cold cases” have been solved, and infamous serial and spree killers have been identified and arrested. Persons wrongfully convicted have been exonerated. However, this cutting-edge DNA technology has the potential to infringe on important privacy interests. In this class, we will explore these issues through the examination of high-profile crimes. Guest speakers, who are experts in the field of forensic science and civil liberties, will share their unique perspective with students. Small projects will enhance the students’ understanding of course topics.
 

#6266: What can Philosophy teach us about Sport (and Sport about Philosophy)?

It is often said that sport is a “school of life.” Interestingly, the same is often said about Philosophy: philosophers seek to uncover the principles that sustain a good, fulfilling life, and to understand what is needed to live such a life today, in this increasingly complicated world. By reading about and discussing questions and stories from the world of Sports – one of humanity’s “universal languages” – we will explore the deepest meaning of notions like Justice, Beauty, Democracy, and even Love. Athletic prowess not required, passion for sports greatly encouraged!
 

#6267: The Human Story: Linguistics of Signed Languages  

The Human Story: Linguistics of Signed Languages introduces students to the field of anthropology with a special focus on human language. Anthropologists study all parts of the human experience—biological, cultural, historical, and linguistic—to give us a complete picture of what it means to be human. In the first part of the course, we explore how humans have interacted with animals through time and how those relationships have influenced the development of our species, cultural practices, and social structures. In the second half of the course, we dive into a comparison of animal communication with human language, which is known for its complexity and symbolism whether it is spoken or signed. We focus on understanding the rich linguistic structures of signed languages and how they relate to spoken languages. By the end of the course, students will have a new understanding of the field of anthropology, gain insight into the human-animal connection from various anthropological perspectives, and understand how language—whether spoken or signed—plays a crucial role in the human story.
 

#6268: Liberty and Justice for All

This course focuses on liberty and justice through a moral and ethical lens with special attention given to the system of criminal justice. Students will be introduced to matters of justice that encourage a deep analysis of driving and restraining forces while considering how to contribute to liberty and justice for all.
 

#6271: Practices for Better Health and Well-Being

Entering college requires some adjustment and forethought to keep yourself in optimal physical, mental and emotional health. In this seminar, you will learn how to practice mindfulness meditation for stress management, create your own exercise program for balanced physical fitness, and find healthy eating options on campus.
 

#6272: An Introduction to Careers in Education

Through your own experiences in education, you have developed a notion of what it means to be a teacher, but have you ever considered teaching as a career? We will explore demographic and employment trends for instructional staff at different levels of formal schooling, from Kindergarten through higher education. In addition to readings and class discussions, we will meet and talk with people employed in the field – not only in careers in the classroom, but also in the myriad of careers in both management and support staff that facilitate and enable teachers to better perform in their roles. This exploration will include, but is not limited to, school counseling, curriculum development, guidance, and administration.
 

#6273: Women in Technology

What do Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, Marian Croak, Hedy Lamarr, and Marie Van Brittan Brown have in common? They are all women pioneers in technology. Despite a long history of women “computers,” women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematic fields are typically underrepresented. This seminar is for women and men alike who want to learn more about the history of women in tech, why there is such gender disparity in the related fields and consider what can be done to reach parity. All students interested in any field are welcome to join this semester, especially those interested in gender studies, informatics, cybersecurity, computer science, and engineering.
 

#6274: “I Read it on The Internet” Doesn’t Make it True

At your fingertips on your smartphone you have more 'news' sources than any time in history. 
Here's the problem: Can you differentiate news from opinion from fake news? In this seminar, Prof. Huber will guide students in weekly discussions of journalism, fake news, and news vs. opinion.
 

#6275: Emerging Technologies: The Future is Now   

What do 3D printing, AI, coding, robotics, drones, and digital gaming have in common? They represent just a few of the innovative areas of technology that will continue to change our lives, and are represented by we work we do here at UAlbany! As you begin your journey as a student at UAlbany, we’ll examine how technology impacts our daily lives now, and how it might impact us in the future. What will your world look like after graduation? Students interested in STEM/STEAM and interdisciplinary fields are invited to join this class and our collaborative discussion. No prior experience necessary!
 

#6286: Law and Human Experience

In this course, we will explore how law is portrayed and examined in stories, articles, and first-hand experiences. We will focus on the way literature, the arts, and social sciences provide insights into the experiences of people impacted in some way by the legal system. Sample topics include gun safety, intellectual disability in the criminal justice system, and teens in the legal system. You will also have the opportunity to put on your judge’s hat!
 

#6411: Digital Forensics and Cyber Investigation

This seminar is designed for incoming freshmen wanting to major in the fast-growing field of digital forensics. Learn how to follow digital “fingerprints” to investigate and track activities in the electronic domain and understand how hackers work. In this class, you will also meet key faculty and staff from the Digital Forensics major who can help you get started in this hot new field.
 

#7237: World of Chemistry and Scientific Careers

This seminar will help students explore potential career paths in science. It is specifically designed for freshmen intending Chemistry/Biochemistry majors but open to any major considering a career in science. Students will learn from invited guest speakers about what their cool science jobs are like in environmental science, pharmaceutical development, forensic chemistry, biophysics, food science, materials science, etc. The discussion section gives students the opportunity to have lunch with professors and selected guest speakers.  Students will form individualized career development plans to land their dream job including informational interviews, getting involved with undergraduate research, and applying for internships.  Please note this seminar does NOT cover any healthcare-related careers.
 

#7335: Growing Up Bilingual

This course will discuss the linguistic aspects of growing up with two languages. We will examine the structure of the human language and how bilingual minds acquire and process more than one linguistic system. We will also discuss the cognitive, cultural and professional benefits of being bilingual.
 

#7766: Exploring Cybersecurity

Exploring Cybersecurity is a one-credit course designed exclusively for freshman students, providing them with a comprehensive introduction to the exciting field of cybersecurity. Through this course, students will gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of cybersecurity, including the principles, technologies, and practices used to secure digital systems and data. Additionally, they will explore cybersecurity as a potential college major and a promising profession, delving into the diverse career paths available, both technical and non-technical. By the end of the course, students will have a well-rounded perspective on cybersecurity and be equipped with the foundational knowledge to make informed decisions about pursuing further studies or careers in this rapidly evolving field.
 

#8025: Communication in Close Relationships

Personal relationships are often a source of satisfaction and joy, but they can also bring about feelings of frustration, confusion, and pain. This class explores some of the communicative opportunities and challenges we face in starting, maintaining, and ending close relationships. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own engagement in family, friend, and romantic relationships.
 

#8026: Unlocking Your Communication Potential

How well do you communicate with others? We're often assumed to naturally know how to communicate, but let's be honest – it's not always easy to do. Most of us have not taken specific classes focused on developing these important skills. This course is here to change that. Get ready to unlock the secrets of effective communication! We will cover such topics as communicating your point of view, listening to others, collaborating in a team, and overcoming speaking anxiety. The skills that you will learn will help you in future classes, in your interactions with family and friends and in professional environments.
 

#8027: First Year Zine: Exploring UAlbany through photography

Students will embark on a creative journey of visual storytelling -- all while exploring campus and documenting their first-year experience. Together we will learn the fundamentals of photography and sequencing to capture compelling images that convey powerful narratives. By the end of the semester, students will showcase their personal perspectives with printed "zines" (a small DIY publication).

#9478: Introduction to Theatre at UAlbany

This seminar is for first-year students from all intended majors who are interested in acting, playwriting, musical theatre, dramatic literature or music. Together, the participants in the course will explore the UAlbany facilities and the many creative opportunities available on campus by attending and/or participating in performances in the Performing Arts Center. Students will also venture off-campus to engage in productions, events and venues within the broader arts community of the Capital Region. We will meet professionals working in the industry, get exposure to new opportunities and foster a path for getting involved onstage and backstage at UAlbany and beyond!
 

#9479: Afrofuturism and the First-Year Experience: Imagining Your Future

In this one-credit course, students will explore the dynamic world of Afrofuturism—a cultural and artistic movement that reimagines the future through the lens of Black experiences, histories, and possibilities. Through engaging texts, music, and films, students will examine themes of liberation, identity, and community while developing essential skills for a successful college transition. Topics include time management, effective communication, and building connections on campus, all framed within Afrofuturism’s vision of empowerment and transformation. By the end of the course, students will craft their own “Afrofuturistic blueprint” for navigating their academic and personal journeys.
 

#9480: The Human Story: The Anthropology of Sport

The Human Story: The Anthropology of Sport introduces students to the field of anthropology with a special focus on the interaction of culture and biology. Anthropologists study all parts of the human experience, biological, cultural, historical, and linguistic—to give us a complete picture of what it means to be human. In the first part of the course, we explore how humans have interacted with animals through time and how those relationships have influenced the development of our species, cultural practices, and social structures. In the second half of the course, we explore human biology through an analysis of how athletics, competition, and exercise are shaped by our bodies, cultures, and histories. You’ll learn to think like an anthropologist and see the old ball game in a new light.
 

#9481: Financial Adulting 101

Ever thought about the true costs of living when it comes to attending college, owning a car, having pets, raising a family, buying a house, and everything in-between? Learning how to budget is just as important as learning how to invest, for the choices you make today will impact your future. Together we’ll learn the strategies needed to afford life and make your money work for you.

#9482: Public Relations and Advocacy

This course will explore the professional paths available to students interested in careers in public relations and advocacy, including the intersection of communications, government and public opinion. The course will include guest speakers and some on-campus field trips, using the campus as an example for how an organization can effectively use communications to achieve its strategic goals. This course is ideal for students interested in government, public policy, advocacy, public relations and journalism.
 

#9483: Self-Exploration and Path-Making through Tea Culture

Tea culture refers to how tea is made, how it is prepared, and the customs and traditions related to drinking it. This class will use tea culture as an analogy to explore ourselves, the resources and opportunities available at UAlbany, and to develop intentional  paths to reach our individual academic and career SMART goals (i.e., goals which are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound). Through the study of tea culture, you will develop and strengthen key skills needed to succeed at UAlbany. This course will include campus field trips, and guest speakers from within UAlbany and from the community.
 

#9484: Global Education and its Challenges

Explore the interconnected world of education, its diverse landscapes, and the challenges it faces. From access and equity to innovation and reform, discover how global forces like technological advancements, migration patterns, and international collaborations shape learning—and how we can create a future where everyone has the best chance at learning!
 

#9485: Hacking College

Develop critical strategies for success through college and beyond. Rooted in the aspirational mission of higher education, we will explore modern expectations of the student and the university, and carve a unique path on our journey toward long-term success.

#9487: Multiculturalism

How do your cultural and ethnic heritages influence your view of the world and your day-to-day interactions? This course helps you expand your awareness and understanding of how culture shapes and influences daily life and enhances your appreciation of different cultures within and outside of the U.S. The course offers you opportunities to heighten your awareness of your own cultural and ethnic heritages, immigrant background, and cultural values and beliefs. It will strengthen your ability to grapple effectively with issues of multiculturalism in today’s U.S. society. You will be encouraged to analyze multiculturalism concepts, issues, and themes from a social justice perspective.

#9488: Guardians of the Game

"Guardians of the Games" explores the exciting world of online gaming and the critical importance of cybersecurity. This course provides students with an understanding of the dynamics of online game playing, including game mechanics, player interactions, and the digital ecosystems that support these games. Additionally, students will explore the cybersecurity challenges unique to online gaming environments and learn strategies to protect against cyber threats.
 

#9489: "So what are you gonna do with that?" The Liberal Arts and You

So, you did the thing. You deposited, chose a major, decorated your dorm, and are about to start your first few classes. The question is – now what? According to a lot of thinkers across several centuries the answer is: become a better person and make the world around you a better place. In this seminar, we’ll explore the history of liberal arts education, think about academics and the public sphere, and explore how college can create personal and social change. We’ll look at the concept of “artes liberales,” or the subjects worthy of learning by free people, and how it is – and sometimes is not! – a pathway to become a “freer” person who can move between the world of theory and the world of action. Throughout, we’ll also talk about why you yourself are here – we’ll look at how to use your degree to prep for careers, think about your own personal and academic goals, and how you want to leave your mark on the world around you.
 

#9490: True Crime Media Narratives

True crime media has experienced a major surge in popularity over the past several years. In this course, we will examine contemporary true crime media narratives, examining the reasons for their popularity, the ways these narratives are put together, and how we can be ethical and responsible true crime consumers.

#9491: Spies, Lies, and the Secret World of Espionage

Intelligence agencies are among the most misunderstood parts of government—often cast as heroes or villains in pop culture. This course cuts through the myths to unpack the core functions of intelligence: collection, analysis, and covert action. Students will also explore key ethical dilemmas that shape the world of espionage. At the end of the course students will be able to interpret intelligence-related headlines and take informed positions on controversies in the field.

#9492: The Human Story: Archaeology Beyond Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider

Archaeology is the study of the human cultures in the past, but there are common misconceptions about what it is and how it is done. The most obvious of these are from movies and video games, but there are other even more problematic examples in the broader media landscape. This class will focus on the practice of archaeology and how it is consumed by the broader public through an examination of movies, literature, and other media. It will critically examine the good and bad of archaeological portrayals and provide a basic understanding of its reality.

#9493: Attention, Anxiety, and Aspiration: Life and Learning Today

Learning the lessons that will prepare you to face the personal and professional challenges the world will put in your path requires you to pay attention. Attention is central to education because it links perception, thought, and action. Politically, the distribution of attention determines who is heard, seen, and served. To be recognized, cared for, respected, or loved is to be the subject of someone else’s attention. Increasingly, attention is “fracked,” manipulated, and surveilled by social media companies, advertisers, pundits, and influencers, leading many to declare we live in an epochal attention crisis. Not knowing what, who, or how to pay sustained attention can generate profound anxieties that make college more difficult and prevent us from recognizing or discovering our deepest aspirations. This interdisciplinary course will explore how psychologists, philosophers, cognitive scientists, policymakers, activists, and artists think about the links between attention, anxiety, and the aspirational project of higher education.

#9536: Using Primary and Secondary Sources to Study the Past and Present

The class will introduce students to the University at Albany community and assist them in understanding academic expectations, intellectual challenges, and personal opportunities available to them as learners. By the end of the semester, students will identify areas of the University to improve their chances for academic success and the many information resources and opportunities available to you. This class is for those who are interested in learning to study the past and its relevance for understanding today’s world. You will learn how to access and analyze information sources, learn the skills of academic research, and gain an understanding and ability to summarize large amounts of information. During the semester, we will conduct a historical research project analyzing secondary and primary sources located in the University Archive. Using primary and secondary sources will not only improve your chances of academic success, but also provide you with research skills that are applicable in many occupations and industries, such as the fields of law, business, journalism, economics, politics. and government.

#9553: Seeing Through Other Eyes: Building Intercultural Understanding

This course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to build intercultural understanding through increased exposure to other countries, people and cultures around the world, primarily through film and video but supplemented with theoretical and practical models, tools, and other resources.

#9554: Optimize your college education to bridge a future international life

Explore various student engagement opportunities toward forging an international life and future - like study abroad, cultural organization leadership, internships and volunteering locally and overseas, national/international service learning and more!  Learn about global related courses, international education enhancements and distinctions, international focused research projects, global graduate education and abroad scholarship/fellowship programs to further expand your portfolio and resume.  Finally, get excited about overseas lifestyles in travel, professional, short-term work/gig project, volunteering and expatriate settings.

#9564: The Human Story: The Anthropology of Food

Chef Anthony Bourdain famously joked, “Barbecue may not be the road to world peace, but it’s a start.” Inspired by this quote, this course asks why food is such a powerful force for both connection and difference. We’ll explore how our culinary traditions shape cultural identities, forge social bonds, and reflect global trends and politics. By tracing the social life of our food, you’ll learn how every shared plate tells a story that transcends borders, linking our past, present, and future.

#6287, #6900, #7225: College Success for the Student-Athlete

This course is designed to enhance your first-year experience as an NCAA Division I Student-Athlete at UAlbany. In FSP 100, we explore and develop life skills for success in the classroom, on the field, and in life.

UUNI 120: Building your Academic Plan (1 Credit)

1-credit Freshman Seminars are available that focus on Building your Academic Plan. Fully explore your passions and set goals for your time at UAlbany. In order to reach those goals, what skills do you need to develop and what support will you need to be successful? In this class, you will reflect on your skills and goals and build an academic plan to ensure you get the most from your college time.

UUNI 105: The Freshman Year Experience (3 Credits)

The purpose of this course is to help you become an effective student. It focuses on the academic skills that will help you succeed at UAlbany (e.g., time management and study skills).

You will learn about the college experience, including experiences unique to first-year students, transitional stages that you may undergo and coping strategies that can help you pass through this phase of college life.

In addition, you will learn how to use and locate important campus resources and learn about who you are and how that information helps you choose a major and a career.

How to Learn More About Course Options

You can search the freshman seminar course topics through the schedule of classes by following these steps:

• Step 1: Select a Semester or Term to search the Schedule of Classes
• Step 2: Select Undergraduate only for Level (Graduate/Undergraduate)
• Step 3: Select UFSP 100 to see the different Course Subjects offered
• Step 4: Leave everything as it is in the other fields
• Step 5: Select submit

Work with your academic advisor on your First-Year Experience choice for your first semester.

Selecting Your Course

You will select a course when you submit your Connection Day registration form. If you have any questions, please contact your advisor or Academic Advising to select the best option for you.

A four-year enriched academic experience for invited students.

The Honors College is a small community of scholars who seek a more engaging academic experience to challenge and develop themselves.

As an Honors College student, you’ll enjoy small Honors-only classes, Honors housing and priority course registration and weekly academic, cultural and social events. You’ll also be supported by faculty members, Honors academic advisors, an Honors librarian and Honors peer mentors.

All high school seniors who apply for admission to the University at Albany are automatically considered for the Honors College. Eligible transfer students are invited to apply.

How to Apply to the Honors College

Please visit the Honors College website for more information.

The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at the University at Albany provides admission opportunities for economically and educationally disadvantaged undergraduate students who are residents of New York State.

How to Apply to EOP

To qualify for admission to EOP, you must be a New York State resident, possess a high school diploma or its equivalent and meet academic and financial eligibility requirements.

Please visit Undergraduate Admission’s EOP page for detailed information on eligibility requirements and application instructions.