Linked Courses

A linked course is when students who are enrolled in USC 101 (Intro to University Education) are also enrolled in a General Education First Year Inquiry (FYI) course at the same time. Because the same group of students will be in two courses together, they are able to build a smaller community of peers as they transition to college.

Each of our linked classes provides unique in-class instruction, as well as some out-of-classroom experiences. The instructors who choose to teach an FYI course create an engaging educational experience for the incoming first-year students. In this smaller setting students feel more comfortable to dialogue, ask questions, and connect to the experience.

All incoming (fall semester and Summer Start) Exploratory Studies students are required to be enrolled in the USC 101 course in the fall, but enrollment in the linked course is optional.

How to Get Into a Linked Course

If you are interested in signing up for a linked course opportunity, you will be able to indicate your interest through the Pre- Advising survey, found in the Self-Registration Training Moodle. We will add interested students to the Linked Courses until they are filled.

Linked Course Options for Fall 2025

COM 112: Interpersonal Communication

Interpersonal communication competence: self-concept, language and culture, self-disclosure, active listening, verbal and nonverbal communication, and conflict management.

HSS 201: Critical Thinking in America

The primary goal of this course is to provide students from all disciplines with humanistic critical thinking skills that will be useful in their future professions. Exploring major themes in American life from the perspectives of different generations, cultural backgrounds, and social experiences, students use this discussion-based seminar to investigate and interpret transformative texts including speeches, short stories, court decisions, films, songs, and more.

PS 201: American Politics and Government

Analysis of American political institutions and processes, including the constitution, political culture, campaigns and elections, political parties, interest groups, the media, the president, Congress, the federal courts, and public policy. Discussion of contemporary and controversial issues in American politics. Emphasis on placing current issues in comparative and historical perspective where relevant.

STS 323: World Population and Food Prospects

Examination of the dynamics of population size and food needs, production, distribution, and utilization. Consequences of inadequate nutrition and food choices, efforts to increase the compatibility of effective food production systems and alternate crops and cropping systems examined.