Course Recommendations by Academic Department

Fall 2026

Washington and Lee University University Registrar Policies & Procedures Curricular Advice for New Students Course Recommendations by Academic Department
University Registrar

Table of Contents

Accounting: major / individual courses

We offer the following advice for first-year students contemplating majoring in Accounting:

  • ACCT 1000 should be taken either during the winter term of your first year or fall term of your sophomore year. Completing ACCT 1000 will allow you to register for ACCT 2000 and many Business Administration courses, for which it is a prerequisite, in your sophomore year.
  • ECON 1001, ECON 1002, FIN 2000 and BUS 2002 (or another approved statistics course) should be completed by the end of your sophomore year.
  • Declare the accounting major in the winter term (January) of your sophomore year.
    Students are also encouraged to take as much mathematics as they are capable of handling.

You are attending one of the finest liberal arts institutions in the country. Accordingly, prospective majors should fully immerse themselves in the liberal arts upon enrollment and continue to take courses outside accounting during their time at W&L.

Africana Studies: minor / individual courses

  • Students seeking to complete the Program in Africana Studies typically begin with AFCA 1300: An Introduction to Africana Studies. This course is open to all first-year students and satisfies an FDR requirement. Other courses in the program may also be taken in any sequence, though generally we recommend that students should wait until the sophomore year to take those courses numbered at the 3000 level.
  • This program requires a student to complete 21 credits in seven courses.
  • Students should consult with Professor Michael Hill, Director of the Program in Africana Studies, Tucker Hall, 540-458-8327.

Anthropology: (see Sociology and Anthropology)

Arabic: individual courses

Students seeking courses in Arabic should contact Professor Anthony Edwards to express interest in beginning Arabic. If students have experience with the language, contact him to schedule a placement test. 

Archaeology: minor / individual courses

Recommended for first-year students interested in the Archaeology minor:

  • Take ARTH/CLAS 2000, SOAN 2510, SOAN 2000, or SOAN 2001

Art and Art History: majors / minors / individual courses

The department offers majors in art history and studio art. The department offers minors in art history, studio art, and cultural heritage and museum studies.

Recommended for prospective art history and studio art majors:

  • Art History (ARTH): 1001 and 1002, 1300, 1301, 1400, 1410, 1700 and all 2000-level courses;
  • Studio Art (ARTS): 1101, 2102, 1201, 1601, 2103, 1301, 1401, 1501.

Recommended for first-year students taking art history and/or studio art courses for a humanities distribution, who have had some background in art or art history:

  • Art History (ARTH): 1001 and 1002, 1300, 1301, 1400, 1410, 1406, 1700 and all 2000-level courses;
  • Studio Art (ARTS): 1101, 2102, 1201, 1601, 2103, 1301, 1401, 1501.

Recommended for first-year students taking art history and/or studio art courses for a humanities distribution, who have had no background in art or art history:

  • Art History (ARTH): 1001 and 1002, 1300, 1301, 1400, 1410, 1406, 1700 and all 2000-level courses;
  • Studio Art (ARTS): 1101, 2102, 1201, 1601, 2103, 1301, 1401, 1501.

First Years with prior art experience can also enroll in two upper division classes – ARTS 2901 or ARTS 2202.

Art History courses do not have prerequisites, so both students with and without prior experience in Art History should feel confident enrolling in any 1000- or 2000-level course. While 1000-level courses generally offer a broad overview spanning various geographical and chronological periods, 2000-level courses delve deeper into specific time periods, regions, or topics. Students who are considering a major or minor in studio art should prioritize enrolling in a studio art course within their first year of study. These courses are intentionally kept small, usually limited to 10 students, with most seats reserved for first-years, sophomores, as well as declared majors and minors,

For more information about the art history and/or studio art majors, please contact the Department Head, Elliott King.

Biology: majors / minors / individual courses

For first-year students taking biology for distribution requirements:

  • Biology 1001, 1005, 1111/1112 (non-science majors who wish to take BIOL 1111/1112 are encouraged to do so during winter term)

Required for students planning to take advanced courses in biology:

  • Mathematics 1210, 1220, Biology 1111/1112, and Chemistry 1204.

For prospective biology, neuroscience, or environmental studies majors in their first year, a desirable schedule is:

  • BIOL 1111/1112 (fall) and CHEM 1204 (winter, for biology and neuroscience majors)
  • Mathematics (through MATH 1220)
  • WRIT 1000 (complete the writing foundation requirement)
  • World Language foundation requirement

Business Administration: major / individual course

The business administration major prepares students for a changing and increasingly complex business environment. It integrates business study with the strengths of the liberal arts to develop critical thinking, ethical judgment, collaboration, and clear communication. Students learn to generate original ideas and apply sound judgment in complex business contexts. 

Students typically declare the major in January of the sophomore year. To stay on track, we recommend completing the following courses by the end of sophomore year:

  • ECON 1001 - Principles of Microeconomics
  • ACCT 1000 - Introduction to Accounting
  • BUS 2002 - Fundamentals of Business Analytics
  • BUS 2100 - Management and Organizational Behavior
  • BUS 2200 - Foundations of Business Communication
  • FIN 2000 - Managerial Finance

Notes:

  • ACCT 1000 & FIN 2000: Students should take ACCT 1000 (the pre-requisite for FIN 2000) either Winter term of their first year or Fall term of their sophomore year. The Accounting & Finance department gives registration priority for FIN 2000 to sophomores, so students should plan to complete finance by the end of sophomore year.
  • Lab science: We also strongly encourage you to complete your lab science requirement by the end of your sophomore year.

Please view the advice webpage for additional guidance on getting started on the business major. 

A possible FY schedule of courses for students interested in the Business Administration major might look like this:

First Year

Fall Winter Spring
WRIT 1000 ACCT 1000 Spring Term course of interest
Foreign Language Foreign Language
ECON 1001 FDR Lab Science
BUS 2002 or BUS 2100 BUS 2002 or BUS 2100
FDR or Elective

Chemistry and Biochemistry: majors / individual courses

For first-year students taking chemistry courses for foundation and distribution requirements:

  • CHEM 1104 (fall term); and CHEM 1134 (spring term) both provide a four-credit laboratory science course.
  • CHEM 1204 (fall and winter terms) also meets a distribution requirement, and it is intended for students who plan to use science professionally (e.g., scientists, engineers, doctors, and other health professionals). (Note that MATH 1210 is strongly recommended to be taken during the fall term independent of whether the student plans to enroll in Chem 1204 during the fall or winter term.)

For first-years taking chemistry courses as part of any science major or in preparation for health professions:

  • CHEM 1204 and BIOL 1111, 1112 (one in fall term, one in winter term) (Completing MATH 1210 before or while taking CHEM 1204 is strongly recommended.)
  • MATH 1210 and 1220 are required in most science majors.

For prospective chemistry or biochemistry majors in their first year, a desirable schedule is:

  • CHEM 1204 and BIOL 1111, 1112 (one in fall term, one in winter term) (Completing MATH 1210 before or while taking CHEM 1204 is strongly recommended.)
  • Mathematics
    • for health professions or B.S. in biochemistry, through MATH 1220;
    • for B.S. in chemistry or integrated engineering, through MATH 2100.
  • WRIT 1000 (complete the Writing Foundation).
  • World Language Foundation.

Chinese: (see East Asian Languages and Literatures)

Classics: major / minor / individual courses

Classics courses provide a variety of approaches to the ancient world, including language and literature, art and archaeology, philosophy, law, religion, theater, and more. The Classics department also offers courses in Latin and ancient Greek.

A placement test in Latin is offered online over the summer.  

  • Students with no prior experience of Latin need not take the placement test. (You may enroll directly in LATN 1101.)
  • Students who have scored 5 on the Advanced Placement Latin test need not take the diagnostic test. Such students may enroll directly into a Latin course at the advanced (or 3000) level.

Students with academic experience of ancient Greek and wishing to continue their study at Washington and Lee should consult Professor Michael Laughy. A good time to do this is during orientation.

Recommended for prospective classics majors:

  • Begin studying Latin and/or Greek;
  • Consider courses in Classics, ancient art, ancient philosophy, and ancient history.

Suggested for first-year students taking classics for FDRs:

  • Classics 1800, any CLAS course at the 2000-level.
  • Both Latin and ancient Greek can be used to satisfy the world language requirement (LATN 2002/GR 2002) and the literature requirement (any 3000-level LATN or GR).

Latin

Students who have no experience with Latin are welcome in LATN 1101. Students who have taken Latin in high school should take the online placement test. On the basis of this test result, a placement recommendation is made. If there are questions about the placement, please contact the Head of the Classics Department, Professor Laughy. All upper levels of Latin are open to first-year students based on qualifications.

Latin is a useful course for students interested in law school. Knowledge of Latin also provides an excellent foundation for those interested in studying literature, history, art, or for becoming proficient in other languages.

Greek

Ancient Greek is particularly useful for students interested in medical school or religion. All students are welcome in Greek 1101, a language course which includes much primary material from the archaeology of ancient Greece. It is unusual for an entering student to have studied Greek during high school. Those that have should contact Professor Laughy to determine the correct placement.

Classics

Classics courses at the 2000 level are appropriate for any incoming student. In the case of Classics at the 3000 level, first-year students should consult with the professor, since the subject matter may presuppose a certain level of sophistication.

Cognitive and Behavioral Science: majors / individual courses

For first-year students taking cognitive and behavioral science courses for distribution requirements (can be taken in any order):

  • CBSC 1100 (Brain and Behavior with lab: SL) or CBSC 1110 (Brain and Behavior; SC)
  • CBSC 1120 or 1500 (both SC)
  • CBSC 1130, 1140, 2130, 2140, or 2150 (all SS).

Recommended for prospective CBSC majors in their first year:

  • CBSC 1100 or 1110, CBSC 1120, 1130 and/or 1140, in any order

Computer Science: majors / minor / individual courses

Students may satisfy the Foundations Mathematics requirement by taking CSCI 1000 (Survey of Computer Science) or CSCI 1100 (Introduction to Computer Science).

  • CSCI 1100 is intended for students who want a first course in programming and problem solving that assumes no prior programming experience. Students who are potential majors or who want programming experience for other coursework should take CSCI 1100. Note that CSCI 1100 (or 1550, which is not regularly offered) is a requirement for a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. You can take CSCI 1100 any time up until winter of your sophomore year and still major. The department’s web site shows potential schedules for starting CSCI 1100 in a later term.
  • CSCI 1000 is intended for students who want an overview of the field in breadth and depth, with a focus on current topics like multimedia computing. Students who simply want to fulfill the FM requirement should enroll in CSCI 1000. However, CSCI 1000 is only offered when resources permit and is not planned to be offered this academic year.

For more information about the courses and major, see the Computer Science department website.

Creative Writing: minor

Recommended for prospective Creative Writing minors in their first year:

  • After satisfying the first-year writing requirement, students may enroll in any 2000-level creative writing workshop (ENGL 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2011, 2905, 2018), and/or in any 2000-level literature class in English except for 2909. Both workshops and literature courses at the 2000-level may be used towards minor requirements.

Dance: minor / individual courses

The following courses in dance are open to ALL First-Year students, regardless of experience level, and have no prerequisites. Each meets either FDR requirement in arts (HA), literature (HL) or is an Experiential Learning credit (EXP).

  • DANC 110: University Dance. (EXP) Participation in rehearsals and performance for a university dance production. May be repeated for up to eight degree credits. All students are welcome and no experience is necessary.
  • DANC 111: University Dance Production. (EXP) Participation in any backstage aspect of a university dance performance. May be repeated for up to four degree credits.
  • DANC 120: Fundamentals of Contemporary Modern Dance (meets FDR HA).  This course is an introduction to individual and ensemble artistic expression in contemporary modern dance within the context of modern dance history. Attention is given to educating the body to move with specificity and to develop rhythm, spatial, and effort awareness. No dance experience required.
  • DANC 190B: Special Topics in Dance: Digital Storytelling: Harnessing Social Media to Create Art (meets FDR HA). This class is centered at the junction of technology, story and art making. We will explore and develop user-generated content for snap chat, youtube, tik tok, among other platforms, and practice visual storytelling, abstract art making, and communication skills to engage and inform. We will harness the power, the limitations and the challenges of these platforms and use them as devices for art making. This project-based class is fun and creative and does not require any artistic experience, or knowledge of digital media, or audio or video editing.
  • DANC 215: World Dance Technique (meets FDR HA). World dance includes a vast array of dance forms, from traditional ceremonial dances to social dances, reflecting the rich diversity of cultures around the globe. Each dance style is deeply rooted in a specific culture, with its own history, meaning, and purpose Specific footwork, body shape, and rhythmic patterns are taught along with storytelling and ritualistic elements. No dance experience necessary.
  • DANC 220: Dance Composition (meets FDR HA). A studio course exploring the art and practice of creating dance that delves deeply into the aesthetics and structures of contemporary dance composition. Through discussions, research, and hands-on experience, students will develop and organize movement materials according to formal chorographic principles and become proficient in creating dances and finding their own choreographic voice. No dance experience necessary.
  • DANC 225: Contemporary Modern Dance Practice. This studio course is devoted to refining effort/shape values and phrasing in contemporary modern dance technique. Students investigate combinations, deconstruct movement phrases, and practice listening to the body by connecting movement phrases with kinesthetic experiences.
  • DANC 233: Movement for Actors (meets FDR HA). This course exams an array of methods that provide a vocabulary for thinking about, acting upon, and talking about movement and gesture and the physical integration of voice, breath, speech, and movement. We explore Alexander Technique and create an awareness of physical habits of ‘misuse’ and transform them by focusing on breathing and vocal work. Students examine viewpoints as a method for vocabulary to discuss work and as a tool for creating it. Laban Movement Analysis looks at these same concepts as a language for interpreting and documenting human movement. Class meetings include lecture, studio work, and individual projects. No dance experience required.
  • DANC 240: Revolutionary Dancers (FDR: HA) This course is a study of the manifestations of American modern dance from the beginning of the Twentieth century to the present. We will look at the relationships between dance and the developments in U.S. culture, specifically the role of women in dance and society. The women pioneers of modern dance, the shaping of the art form based on their female bodies, their innovative techniques, the relationship of their feminine aesthetic to their lives and works of art will be studied through readings, video and lectures.
  • DANC 250: Aerial Dance Techniques (meets FDR HA). This course examines a unique array of techniques from across the aerial arts and a diversity of experimental approaches to movement in the air. The history of the form as well as lineage of style and current techniques are expressed through lecture, studio work, required readings and videos, masterclasses, performances, and written responses. No dance experience required.
  • DANC 292: Ballet Technique. A studio course devoted to the practice of classical ballet technique and to the exploration of classical and contemporary ballet in performance. All levels are welcome.

Digital Culture and Information: minor / individual courses

The Digital Culture and Information (DCI) program offers courses in which students have the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in how technology intersects with information resources, design, communication, and culture. No prior coding experience is required for DCI courses. The DCI minor requires completion of 18 credits in the program. More information may be found on the Digital Culture and Information Program website.

  • DCI 1001: Introduction to Digital Culture and Information, is offered in the fall and winter. - What does it mean to be a citizen of a digital world? How do you think critically about the ways that technology shapes our society? How do you learn new digital skills when platforms are constantly changing? How do you find and use information effectively without being overwhelmed or misled? Through hands-on activities and project-based learning, this course serves as an introduction to the study of digital culture and information. Students will develop the critical capacity and technological fluency necessary to understand, analyze, critique, and create in a world dominated by digital media, software algorithms, and information overload.
  • DCI 2905: Digital Bookish Culture is offered in the fall and appropriate for first-years. Students in this course will explore the impact of digital culture on reading, peoples’ relationships with books, and the presentation of book culture on digital platforms and social media. The course will address issues such as analog and digital reading formats, community building around books, and the role of various demographics in bookish culture. Through weekly readings, discussions, and writing assignments, students will develop and/or improve their analytical skills to explore the information literacy concepts of contextual authority, scholarship as conversation, and information creation as a process. Students will create a book themed, interview-based podcast episode as part of their final project and will create a physical commonplace book throughout the term.

Earth and Environmental Geoscience: majors / individual courses

EEG 1000-level courses are very popular classes and are open to first-year students, some sophomore students, and fewer juniors and seniors. We encourage anyone interested in Geology, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Geophysics, Geochemistry, or related fields to enroll in these classes during your first year. If you are interested in Earth and Environmental Geoscience as a major, or Environmental Studies as a major or minor, please contact an Earth and Environmental Geoscience Department or Environmental Studies faculty member about your interest.

First-year students may enroll in the following courses (*offered alternate years):

EEG 1000 (4) Dynamic Earth: Introductory Geology with Field Emphasis – Fall or Winter
EEG 1001 (4) Dynamic Earth: Introductory Geology – Winter
EEG 1002 (4) Sustainable Earth: Introductory Environmental Geology – Fall or Winter
EEG 1003 (4) Earth’s Freshwater: Introduction to Hydrologic System Science – Fall or Winter
EEG 1004 (3) Planetary Geology*
EEG 1005 (4) Earth Lab – Spring
EEG 1007 (4) Dynamic Earth: Science of Natural Hazards – Fall or Winter
EEG 1008 (4) Dynamic Earth: Rise and Fall of the Appalachians
EEG 1401 (3) Global Climate Change* – Winter
EEG 1500 (3) Water Resources* – Fall or Winter
EEG 1502 (3) Are We Alone? – Fall or Winter 
EEG 1505 (3) Oceanography – occasionally
EEG 1601 (3) Mineral Resources and the Green Energy Transition – Fall or Winter
EEG 2000 (3) Building a Planet – Winter

For prospective earth and environmental geoscience majors, we advise you to consider the following courses during your first year:

An introductory course: EEG 1000, 1003, or 1007 (fall) or 1001, 1002, or 2000 (winter),
Any 2000-level or 3000-level EEG class once you have taken EEG 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1005, 1007, or 2000, additional 1000-level courses.

Students interested in an Earth and Environmental Geoscience major are encouraged to take EEG 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1005, 1007, or 2000 early. Any of these courses serve as prerequisites for most of the other courses in the Earth and Environmental Geoscience department and they are required for a major or for some courses required for Environmental Studies. Students who express an interest in any of the earth sciences (geology, environmental geology, geophysics, earth science teaching, etc.) should plan their course of study carefully to match their interests. Faculty members of the department will be glad to assist any student who needs help in this matter.

East Asian Languages and Literatures: majors / individual courses

The Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures (EALL) at Washington and Lee offers an EALL major with an emphasis in either Chinese or Japanese and minors in Chinese or Japanese. Students should explore the resources available on the East Asian Languages and Literatures website where detailed information concerning all courses in language (CHIN, JAPN), literature in translation (LIT), film and culture (EALL) is available.

Chinese

  • Students with no previous training in Chinese may elect CHIN 1101.
  • Students with previous training in Chinese should read Language Placement for New Students.
  • Students should begin their language as early as possible preferably during their first year. The EALL major with an emphasis in Chinese requires a minimum of three years of Chinese language. Further information on the EALL major or Chinese minor is available on the East Asian Languages and Literatures website.
  • The department also recommends literature in translation (LIT) courses that relate to China and Japan and EALL culture and film courses.

Japanese

  • Students with no previous training in Japanese may elect JAPN 1101.
  • Students with previous training in Japanese should read Language Placement for New Students.
  • Students should begin their language as early as possible preferably during their first year. The EALL major with an emphasis in Japanese requires a minimum of three years of Japanese language. Further information on the EALL major or Japanese minor is available on the East Asian Languages and Literatures website.
  • The department also recommends literature in translation (LIT) courses that relate to China and Japan and EALL culture and film courses.

East Asian Studies: minors / individual courses

The East Asian Studies (EAS) minor at Washington and Lee offers a concentration in either China or Japan. Students are encouraged, but not required, to pursue language-study to fulfill part of the minor.

For more information about the minor, consult the catalog, contact the EAS director, David Bello, or visit the EAS website.

Economics: major / individual courses

Potential economics majors are encouraged to

  • Take ECON 1001 and ECON 1002 in their first year or their sophomore year.
  • Take a 2000-level ECON elective course next.
  • Take one of the required 2000-level courses -- ECON 2002, 2003, 2010, and 2011 -- after that.
  • Discuss any plans to study abroad with a first-year advisor or a faculty member in the Economics Department.

Prospective majors should fully immerse themselves in the liberal arts upon enrollment and continue to take courses outside economics during their time at W&L.

Education Studies (Teacher Licensure): minors / individual courses

  • Minors are available in Education and Education Policy.
  • First-years wishing to qualify for the Virginia state license for teaching in public schools must take a variety of course in three areas - general education, professional education, and student teaching.
  • Students interested in the education or education policy minors should consider taking EDUC 2000: Foundations of Education, which counts toward FDR SS5.
  • Foundation and distribution courses that will assist in gaining licensure vary by endorsement area. However, all endorsement areas require CBSC 1130, Principles of Development. In addition, all students seeking licensure must have certification they have had first aid and CPR training; PE 3004, First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation meets this requirement and is highly recommended. For more details and specific requirements for each endorsement area that W&L offers, please consult the Education Studies website.
  • Careful planning and time management are needed to prepare for teaching while also fulfilling all Washington and Lee degree requirements. First-year students who are interested in licensure should contact Haley Sigler, Director of Education Studies.

Engineering: (see Physics and Engineering for complete information)

  • Students interested in majoring in engineering must take the following three courses this fall:
    • PHYS 1101 or PHYS 1101A
    • Appropriate level of math depending on placement or transfer credit (MATH 1210, 1220, 2200, or 3500)
    • Either ENGN 1710 or ENGN 1720(1900)
    • Students who need two or more language classes for FDR FL should plan to take WRIT 1000 or a humanities or social science FDR course in the fall and wait until sophomore year to begin their language requirement.

English: major / individual courses

  • FDR writing requirement is found in the Writing section below.

Recommended for prospective English majors in their first year:

  • Any 200-level literature course or workshop course (ENGL 201-295) may be used to fulfill major requirements at that level.
  • After taking one course numbered between 201 and 295, a prospective major should take a second English course numbered between 222 and 299.

Entrepreneurship

Students considering minoring in entrepreneurship should plan on taking ENT 1000: Foundations of Entrepreneurship their first or second years.

Environmental Studies: major / minor / individual courses

  • Students interested in the major or minor should seek to complete ENV 1100 in their first year, or no later than the end of their second year.
    • Enrollment in ENV 1100 is limited to first year students and sophomores.  Juniors and seniors may not enroll without permission of the instructor.
    • ENV 1100 is the prerequisite for the core 2000-level courses in the curriculum (ENV 2001, 2002, and 2003).
  • ENV 2001, 2002, or 2003 can be taken at any time by Environmental Studies majors or minors, but students are encouraged to complete these before winter term of their junior year.  They do not need to be taken in any particular sequence.
  • Prospective majors should consider which elective track they would likely pursue and consider taking introductory courses in their first year that serve as pre-requisite for advanced electives.  Specifically:
    • Students considering the Conservation Biology track should complete BIOL 1111 & 1112 in their first year.
    • Students considering the Environmental Economics track should complete ECON 1001 by the Fall of their sophomore year.
    • Students considering the Water Resources or the Climate Change track should complete EEG 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, 1005, 1007, or 2000 by the Fall of their sophomore year.
  • Students interested in the minor or in a double-major including ENV should consider courses that fulfill curricular requirements for both ENV and their additional major.  As the ENV curriculum is interdisciplinary, there are several courses that can count toward other majors or programs. No more than 3 courses can be used to fulfill requirements in both majors.
  • Students who are interested in the Environmental Studies major or minor should consider using ENV 2001, ENV 2002 and ENV 2003 to satisfy distributional (FDR) requirements. This will preserve more flexibility in the future to allow space for satisfying the requirements of double majors, studying abroad, or taking courses in other areas of interest, such as dance, music or art.

Film and Visual Culture Studies: minor / individual courses

First-Years who have completed their FDR FW writing requirement are advised to take FILM 2707/ENGL 2707: Introduction to Film, which is the introductory course required for the film studies minor, or the next time it is offered. Those who have not completed their FDR FW must complete that course first.

FILM 2707: Introduction to Film. (HL) An introductory study of film taught in English and with a topical focus on movies from a variety of global film-making traditions. The course introduces students to fundamental issues in the history, theory, and basic terminology of film.

FILM 2104: Acting for Camera (HA) This course provides a comprehensive examination of the essential skills required for on-camera performance within a studio environment. This course covers the intricacies of screen acting, including character development, script analysis, and the technical demands of various shot types. Through practical exercises and critical reflection, participants will develop the ability to deliver authentic, nuanced performances and articulate insights into their creative processes.

Lighting Design

THTR 361 - THTR 3601

(HA)(EXP) A study of the practice of stage lighting, focusing on styles of production, historical methods and artistic theory. Culminates in a light design for a public theatrical production.

French: (see Romance Languages)

German: majors / minor / individual courses

Who should take the placement test? Any student who intends to study German and has taken German prior to coming to Washington and Lee. The placement test is taken online early in the summer prior to enrollment. Please see details on the German Placement Testing webpage.

Recommended for first-year students taking German courses:

  • Students with no previous training in German should take GERM 1101 in the fall and GERM 1102 in the winter (emphasis on spoken language as well as grammar and reading).
  • Students with any previous training in German should take the German Department’s placement test and may enroll in courses at the level recommended by the department, based on those results.

Required for prospective German majors:

  • Appropriate German courses as suggested by placement tests, likely beginning German (GERM 1101 and 1102), or intermediate German (GERM 2101 & 2102); however if the first-year student receives advanced placement credit or does well enough on the placement test, advanced German (GERM 3101 and 3102) is recommended.
  • For recommended related courses for prospective German majors and minors in their first year, please contact the Department Head, Debra Prager.

Greek: (See Classics)

History: major / individual courses

  • Recommended for first-year students: Any History course at the 1000 level. These include surveys (e.g. HIST 1101, 1803, 1300, 1100, 1400, 1750) and seminar style classes tailored to first year students (HIST 1800 and 1905).
  • Many 2000-level history courses are also open to first-year students, especially those marked as AFY.

Italian: (see Romance Languages)

Japanese: (see East Asian Languages and Literatures)

Journalism and Mass Communications: major / minor/ individual courses

The department has two majors: Journalism and Strategic Communication. The Journalism major offers two sequences - Journalism or Business Journalism - both are intended for students planning journalism careers. Strategic Communication is designed for those who envision a career in public, corporate or government relations, or another persuasive communication field. There is also a minor in Journalism and Strategic Communication.

Required of all prospective majors:

  • Completion of the foundation requirement in writing by the end of the first year.
  • All prospective majors are encouraged to take JOUR 1001: Introduction to Mass Communications in the first year. JOUR 2000: Introduction to News Writing, is open to first-years and sophomores who have completed JOUR 1001.
  • Students interested in the Business Journalism sequence may also take ECON 1001
  • Prospective majors are also encouraged to take any JOUR courses marked with “appropriate for first year."
  • See the department’s website or the University catalog for details.

Latin: (See Classics)

Latin American and Caribbean Studies: minor / individual courses

The Program in Latin American and Caribbean Studies offers a minor that allows students to explore the commonalities and diversity within the region through an interdisciplinary study of its civilizations, cultures, and societies. Check the program website for appropriate courses offered each term, many of which serve as FDRs or meet other major requirements. You may also search by TYPE on the Course Offerings each term to see which LACS courses will be offered.

Advice for first-years:

  • Students should plan to take LACS 1001 (Fall only) as early in their career as possible.
  • If students are unable to enroll in LACS 1001 in their first term, take an FDR course in one of the distribution areas (Literature, Arts/Humanities, Social Sciences) related to LACS.
  • First-year students should continue their language study at the appropriate level and must complete the FDR in French, Portuguese, or Spanish. LACS students are highly encouraged to pursue advanced language courses in one or more of these languages.
  • LACS also offers individual summer fieldwork courses in Costa Rica and Argentina that count as “EXP” credit.
  • Finally, students should begin to seek advice early on about the many spring term and independent study abroad opportunities available to Program members.
  • Interested students should contact Seth Michelson, LACS Program Head, Tucker Hall 324.

Law, Justice, and Society: minor / individual courses

The Law, Justice, and Society program offers a minor that engages students in an interdisciplinary exploration of the nature of law and justice and challenges students to critically examine law and justice across cultural, chronological, topical, and institutional settings.  To earn the minor, a student must take seven courses:

  • LJS 1001: Introduction to Law, Justice, and Society (LJS minors should complete this course by the end of sophomore year.)
  • Five electives (at least one each from the College, the Williams School, and the Law School, and at least one at the 3000-level)
  • A capstone course in the senior year, after the other requirements are met.

Most LJS electives DO NOT have an LJS prefix but are taught in other departments.  In any given term, students can find the courses that will count as LJS electives by searching for “LJS” in the “course tag” field when searching for classes on Workday, or by searching for “LJS” in the “Interdisc. Course Type” field in the Course Offerings List on the registrar’s webpage.  First-year students who cannot secure a spot in LJS 1001 can still start exploring the minor by taking electives.

Mathematics: majors / minor / individual courses

Who should take the Placement Test? The mathematics placement test should only be taken by students who have neither AP scores nor transfer credit yet want to take an advanced course. See the outline of who should take the placement test on the Mathematics Information for First-Year Students webpage.

What mathematics class should I take to fulfill my FM requirement? You have many choices! If you are taking a “one and done” approach to math (but the courses below are so cool that you may change your mind) you can take

  • MATH 1010 – The Art of Mathematical Thinking
  • MATH 2002 – Statistics
  • MATH 1900 – First Year Seminar

If you are thinking about majoring in Computer Science, then you can take

  • MATH 1400 – Discrete Mathematics I

If you are thinking about a course of study that requires calculus, such as Pre-Med, Economics, Physics, Engineering, or Mathematics, then you should take

  • MATH 1210 – Calculus I, or
  • MATH 1220 – Calculus II (if you have credit for MATH 1210 or have been given advanced standing for MATH 1220)

What if I already have FM credit and I want to take more math? A wise choice. All the classes below also satisfy the FDR SC requirement! And if you end up pursuing either a minor or major in mathematics, the three courses below (which can be taken in any order) are required.

  • MATH 2400 – Bridges to Advanced Mathematics
  • MATH 2100 – Multivariable Calculus
  • MATH 2200 – Linear Algebra

Advanced standing in Mathematics: 

If given Advanced Standing placement in MATH 1220 (by way of AP scores, IB scores, or the department placement exam) and successfully complete that course in Fall Term with a grade of C or better, full credit will be awarded for any calculus course(s) skipped. This Advanced Standing placement option is available only in Fall Term of the first year.

Medieval and Renaissance Studies: major / minor / individual courses

  • Students in either their first or sophomore year can take any one of the following to fulfill the beginning course requirement for the MRST major or minor: MRST 1100, 1101, or one of the following courses: ARTH 1001, 1002; CLAS 2001, 2005, 2100, 2204; ENGL 2325, 2362, 2320, 2352, GERM 3312; HIST 1101, 1102, 1700; LIT 2003, 2108, 2019; MUS 2001; REL 1001, 1002, 1005, 1006, 1008, 1031, 1032; or, when appropriate, ARTH 1800; CLAS 1800; ENGL 2909; FILM 1905, 1906; FREN 2081, 2083, 2085; HIST 1800, 1905; LIT 1800, 2905; REL 1080; SPAN 2011, 2020; THTR 1102, 1401; WRIT 1000.
  • Because of the nature of the interdisciplinary major, students are encouraged to take relevant 2000-level courses at their own discretion, as well as appropriate study-abroad courses. For a listing of courses included in the Medieval and Renaissance Studies program, see the  current Course Catalog.
  • For further information contact the Program Head, Wan-Chuan Kao, Associate Professor of English.

Middle East and South Asia Studies: minors / individual courses

The Middle East and South Asia (MESA) Studies program offers two minors: 1) Middle East and South Asia Studies, and 2) Arabic. Information about the MESA program, including the MESA and Arabic minors, is available on the MESA academic program page. 

First-years interested in fulfilling distribution requirements, or in pursuing a minor in Middle East and South Asia Studies or Arabic, are welcome in all 1000-level courses and in many 2000-level courses.You can find examples of how students typically progress through the MESA minor on the Typical Course of MESA Study page.

For those interested in taking Sanskrit, please contact Professor Timothy Lubin. For more information about the MESA studies program or Arabic curriculum, please contact Program Director Seth Cantey.

Music: majors / minor / individual courses

Curricular Advice

For prospective music majors in the first year

Students considering a major in music are strongly encouraged to begin their music study early in their college career. Because first-year students often face credit caps in the first semester, careful planning is important. In particular, ensemble participation and the music theory and aural skills sequence should be prioritized early. MUS 1601 and MUS 1603, taken together for a total of four credits, can be difficult to fit into a schedule and serve as the gateway to upper-division music study.

Ensembles

Prospective music majors are strongly encouraged to participate in a music ensemble during the first year. Ensemble participation is an important part of musical development and should be considered one of the first steps in beginning the major.

Music theory and aural skills

MUS 1601/1603 and MUS 1602/1604, the first-year music theory and aural skills sequence, are designed for music majors. If possible, students should begin this sequence in the first year, since it is foundational for upper-division coursework and can be challenging to schedule later.

Applied music

All music majors must complete at least four credits of applied music in a single performance area, beyond any piano study used to satisfy the piano proficiency requirement. The Department strongly encourages prospective music majors to begin applied study during the first year as their schedules allow. 

Performance emphasis

Students considering a music major with an emphasis in performance should consult the Department Head as soon as possible. Students planning a performance emphasis must perform before a faculty jury by the end of the sophomore year. For that reason, prospective performance students are strongly encouraged to begin applied music study, MUS 1041-1057, as soon as they enter the University.

MUS 1021 should be taken as early as is practical within the student’s overall course plan.

Piano proficiency

Music majors should complete the piano proficiency requirement by the end of the sophomore year. Prospective music majors should consult the piano proficiency coordinator as soon as they enter the University.

For first-year students seeking a Humanities distribution (HA) course in music 

The following music courses may be appropriate for first-year students seeking to fulfill the Humanities distribution requirement:

  • MUS 1601, MUS 1602, and MUS 2021 fulfill distribution requirements and may be taken with permission of the instructor.
  • MUS 1020 (offered Winter), MUS 1021, MUS 1022 (offered Winter), MUS 2022 fulfill an HA distribution requirement and does not require permission of the instructor.

Other music courses open to first-year students

The following courses are open to first-year students with permission of the instructor:

  • MUS 1000, 1001, 1008, 1009A, 1009B, 1010, 1012, 1013, 1014, 1015, and applied music (MUS 1041-1057)

These courses only count toward the Experiential Learning requirement (EXP).

Neuroscience: major / individual courses

Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary major which focuses on understanding of the cells of the brain and how they interact to produce behavior. Neuroscience draws from biology, chemistry, cognitive and behavioral science, mathematics and the computational sciences. 

For prospective neuroscience majors in their first year, we recommend:

  • BIOL 1111/1112 (fall or winter)
  • CHEM 1204 (fall or winter)
  • CBSC 1110 (fall or winter)

For students considering a pre-health track, we also suggest Mathematics (through MATH 1220); Writing (complete the writing foundation); and World Language foundation. 

Philosophy: major / minor / individual courses

First-year students are recommended to take the following philosophy courses:

  • PHIL 1040 (3) Introduction to Moral and Political Philosophy
  • PHIL 1060 (3) Introduction to Theories of Knowledge and Reality
  • PHIL 1140 (3) Ancient Philosophy
  • PHIL 1200 (3) Modern European Philosophy
  • PHIL 1180 (3) Classical Chinese Philosophy
  • PHIL 1905-1907 (3) First-Year Seminars

Students who are especially interested in philosophy (including prospective majors and minors) may also take the following course:

  • PHIL 1700 (3) Introduction to Logic

Many 2000-level and some 3000-level courses are open to first-year students. Consult with the department head or individual instructor if you have not yet completed a 1000-level course.

For more information about all courses in philosophy, see the Philosophy Department website.

Physical Education: individual courses

Students must successfully complete four (4) 1000- or 2000-level courses in order to earn the four credits in physical education required for graduation. The physical education department strongly encourages first-year students to begin taking PE courses during the fall term with the goal of completing the requirement by the end of the sophomore year. All PE registration (including registration for intercollegiate sports) is done as a part of the Registration process, just like any other course.

Additional information regarding the PE requirements may be found in the University Catalog, or on the Physical Education department website.

Physics and Engineering: majors / individual courses

  • PHYS 1101A (4 credits, SL or SC) is required for the physics and engineering majors.  Potential majors in physics are strongly encouraged to take PHYS 1101A this fall.  Potential majors in engineering must take PHYS 1101 or 1101A in the fall.
  • PHYS 1101A is a first-year-only course. If you do not get into PHYS 1101A during fall registration, you should register instead for PHYS 1101 or consult with the head of the department.
  • Pre-health professions students interested in majoring in physics or engineering should start with PHYS 1101A. They can take BIOL 1111/1112 and CHEM 1204 in the sophomore year. 

Politics: major / individual courses

First year students interested in the politics major should consider these courses:

  • POL 1000 American National Government
  • POL 1005 Global Politics
  • POL 1101 Introduction to Political Philosophy
  • POL 2906-01 Global Politics – Chinese Politics under Mao Zedong
  • POL 2906-02 Global Politics 

These courses introduce students to the major fields of study in politics and also count towards Foundation and Distribution Requirements (FDRs). They may be taken in any order. Sections of POL 1000, POL 1005, and POL 1101 are offered in both the fall and winter terms.

Starting a Politics major in the winter term of your first year, or even in the fall of the sophomore year, leaves plenty of time to complete all major requirements. Prospective majors might also take ECON 1001, which is required and counts for the major and counts towards FDRs.

Politics majors should plan to take POL 2002: Applied Statistics (or an equivalent statistics course) no later than the sophomore year.

Portuguese: (see Romance Languages)

Poverty and Human Capability (Shepherd Program): minor / individual courses

The Shepherd Program for the Interdisciplinary Study of Poverty and Human Capability offers interdisciplinary courses.

  • POV 1001: Gateway course (3 credits). Recommended for first-year students with an interest in Shepherd Program involvement; meets an FDR humanities requirement. Can be taken in any year.
  • POV 1002: Field work course (1-credit). Can be taken concurrently with or soon after POV 1001.
  • POV 1003: Spring course (3-credits). Incorporates POV 1001 and 1002 in a single course that includes fieldwork. Also meets FDR requirement.
  • POV 4503: Summer internship (3 credits). Interns work full-time for eight-weeks with peers from other colleges in multiple fields: the arts, business, community organizing, education, healthcare, law, ministry, and social services. Interns work directly with impoverished persons and communities in urban and rural settings in the U.S. or internationally, mostly in the developing world. This course may be taken following a student’s first, sophomore, or junior year. Required for the program minor and for enrollment in the capstone seminar. Financial assistance is available proportional to need. Students who successfully complete all aspects of this internship receive three credits on a pass/fail basis.
  • POV 4203: Research seminar (3 credits). For juniors, seniors, and second- and third-year law students following completion of POV 4503. Non-minors are welcome.
  • Students minoring in this program will also select from discipline-based courses that fit their scholarly and future professional interests. Courses are listed on the program website.
  • Because its purpose is to enrich the education of graduates in all majors and professional trajectories, the Shepherd Program offers a minor rather than a major. The coursework required for the minor prepares professionals in all fields to address the causes and consequences of poverty as it affects us domestically and internationally.

Additional offerings may be integrated into students’ academic studies. The Shepherd Program offers lectures and seminars by visitors to Washington and Lee. The Shepherd staff oversees numerous community-engaged educational and leadership activities: the Nabors Service League; Alternative Break Projects; the Bonner Program (a competitive program offering financial assistance to concentrate on service and leadership); Volunteer Venture, a Leading Edge pre-orientation program for first-years and student leaders; service-learning courses in various departments; community-based research projects; the Campus Kitchen at Washington and Lee and a post-graduate Elrod Fellowship Program. For more information, contact Shepherd Program staff (540-458-4669).

Pre-Health Professions: Individual courses

Required in the first year for students considering health professions (medicine, dentistry, PA, veterinary medicine, etc.):

  • CHEM 1204 and CHEM 1204L (General Chemistry and General Chemistry Laboratory) & BIOL 1111 and 1112 (Fundamentals of Biology and Biology Laboratory), taken in any order;
  • MATH 1210 (Calculus 1 is a pre- or co-requisite for BIOL 1111, CHEM 1204, and PHYS 1101) and either MATH 1220 or a statistics course.

Students interested in majoring in engineering or physics should start with PHYS 1101 (General Physics I) and may take chemistry and biology in the sophomore year. Students should prioritize PHYS 1102A and MATH 1210 in fall.

Recommended in the first year for students considering health professions:

  • Complete the Writing Foundation.
  • World Language Foundation: continue to completion as soon as feasible.
  • Other recommendations vary with choice of major department.

Please contact Brittany Carr, Assistant Director of Pre-Health Professions, with questions about specific health professions career paths.

Pre-Law: individual courses

The most popular major for students entering law school is Political Science (18%), but no particular majors are required to apply, be accepted or succeed in law school. Students should pursue subjects that interest them and select courses to develop research, problem solving and strong communication skills.

Students interested in pre-law should register their preferences on the CPD Canvas Course to receive information about pre-law programs, events, and deadlines. Follow directions carefully after you hit “submit.”

Visit the pre-law advising page and sign up for the CPD Canvas course for more information.

Students may schedule an appointment with the Pre-Law Advisor on Handshake to discuss courses, internships, and the law school application process. Direct your questions to careers@wlu.edu. 

Pre-Medical or Pre-Dental (see Health Professions)

Religion: major / individual courses

First year students are encouraged to take any religion course at the 1000 level.

Most 2000-level courses are also appropriate for first-year students interested in the subject matter.

Course numbering after the thousands place (1xxx, 2xxx) generally refers to topic areas, not level of difficulty or advanced study.

Students who are considering a major or minor in Religion may benefit from taking either Religion 1000 or Religion 2010.

Romance Languages: minor / majors / individual courses

Students may fulfill the World Language FDR in French (FREN 1602 & 1604), Italian (ITAL 1263), Portuguese (PORT 1263), and Spanish (SPAN 1602 & 1604). Spring abroad and study abroad options are also available that allow for completion of the world language FDR in countries where Romance languages are spoken.

Please see the flowchart with registration recommendations for students who wish to complete their language FDR with French, Italian, Portuguese, or Spanish.

Who should take the placement test? See the flowchart referenced above. All incoming students who studied French or Spanish in high school and wish to study any Romance language must take the placement test. Those who studied Italian or Portuguese in high school should speak with Romance Languages about placement. Placement test scores are valid for one year only. Students who perform poorly on the placement test face limited enrollment opportunities in Beginning French or Spanish.

French

First-year students with no prior preparation in French who wish to complete the World Language FDR in French, or who take the placement test in French and are placed into 1101:

  • Should enroll in FREN 1101, offered fall term only, followed by FREN 1102, 1601 & 1602.
  • Enrollment in FREN 1101 is limited.

First-year students who take the W&L placement exam in French and are placed into 1601 or 1604:

  • Should register for the course immediately rather than postponing registration another year.

First-year students who take the W&L placement exam in French and place into the 2000-level French courses:

  • May choose from a variety of courses that fulfill distribution (HU or HL) and French major and French minor requirements.
  • Consult French faculty for best options for continued study in French and for study abroad.

Italian

  • First-year students who have placed into SPAN 1601, SPAN 1604, FREN 1601, FREN 1604 or higher through the W&L Spanish or French placement exams may enroll in ITAL 1213. Other interested students should consult the department head for placement assistance. Completion of ITAL 1213 and 1263 fulfills the World Language FDR.
  • First-year students who have prior preparation in Italian should consult the department head for placement assistance.

Portuguese

  • First-year students who have placed into SPAN 1601, SPAN 1604, FREN 1601, FREN 1604 or higher through the W&L Spanish or French placement exams may enroll in PORT 1213. Other interested students should consult the department head for placement assistance. Completion of PORT 1213 and 1263 fulfills the World Language FDR.
  • First-year students who have prior preparation in Portuguese should consult the department head for placement assistance.

Spanish

First-year students with no prior preparation in Spanish who wish to complete the World Language FDR in Spanish or who take the placement test in Spanish and are placed into 1101:

  • Should enroll in SPAN 1101, offered fall term only, followed by SPAN 1102, 1601 and 1602.
  • Enrollment in SPAN 1101 is limited.

First-year students who take the W&L placement exam in Spanish and are placed into SPAN 1601 or 1604:

  • Should register for the course immediately, due to limited spaces and the inevitable diminishing of language skills.
  • Limited spaces and registration preference for first-year students make it unlikely that you will be able to register for these courses in subsequent years.

First-year students who take the W&L placement exam in Spanish and place into the 2000-level Spanish courses:

  • May choose from a variety of courses that fulfill distribution (HU or HL) and Spanish major requirements.
  • Consult Spanish faculty for best options for continued study in Spanish and for study abroad.

ROTC: individual courses

Washington and Lee offers students the opportunity to enroll in an Army, Air Force, or Navy ROTC program through an agreement with the established ROTC units at neighboring Virginia Military Institute.

  • The program is voluntary and open to all students who meet the character, citizenship, age, medical and physical fitness requirements for military service.
  • Washington and Lee grants up to 12 transfer credit hours toward graduation for successful completion of the courses offered at VMI.
  • All instruction takes place at VMI, in accordance with the VMI class schedule, and is provided at no expense to Washington and Lee students.
  • The program also offers competitive campus-based four-, three- and two-year full scholarships.
  • Army ROTC is divided into a two-year basic course, designed for first-years and sophomores, and a two-year Advanced Course, designed for juniors and seniors. Enrollment in the Advanced Course requires the completion of the Basic Course during the student’s first and sophomore years or successful completion of the Cadet Initial Entry Training (CIET) (usually between the sophomore and junior year for those that missed the first-year and sophomore classes). The Advanced Course student must agree to complete the Military Science curriculum, which includes attendance at the five-week Cadet Leadership Course (CDC) at Fort Knox, Kentucky. The Advanced Course graduate must accept a commission as a second lieutenant in the active Army, Army Reserves or National Guard.
  • Contact the department at VMI, 540-464-7351; 540-464-7680.

Russian Language and Area Studies: major / minor / individual courses

Who should take the placement test in Russian? Any student who intends to study Russian.

  • First-year students interested in pursuing the interdisciplinary major in East European and Russian Studies should begin their study of Russian language at the elementary level or continue it at the appropriate higher level after taking the placement test. Three years of Russian language are required for the major.

Sanskrit: individual courses

See Middle East and South Asia Studies.

Sociology and Anthropology: major / individual course

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology recommends that students interested in our subjects take either SOAN 1100 (introductory anthropology) or SOAN 1200 (introductory sociology). Both of these courses are required for the major and can be taken in either order. Several of this fall’s 2000-level courses may also be appropriate for FY students (see course listings for details). In addition to these course options the department recommends students explore the many liberal arts and pre-professional offerings at the university. An especially good idea for prospective majors would be to also try an introductory course in an interdisciplinary program that complements SOAN well (e.g., AFCA, DCI, DS, LACS, MESA, POV, and so forth).

We also recommend pre-med students who plan to take 1100 or 1200 do so during their first 2 years at the university, as places in these courses are usually reserved for FY students and sophomores.

Spanish: (see Romance Languages)

Strategic Communication (see Journalism and Mass Communications)

Theater: major / minor/ individual courses

The following classes in Theater are open to ALL First-Years, regardless of experience level, and have no prerequisites. Each meets the FDR requirement in arts (HA), literature (HL) or experiential (EXP) as noted.

  • THTR 1101: Introduction to Theater (HA). An introduction to theater practices, a survey of dramatic literature, and a brief introduction to theater history.
  • THTR 1401: Script Analysis for Stage and Screen (HL). Studies selected plays and screenplays from the standpoint of the theatre and screen artists.
  • THTR 1301/1302: Fundamentals of Theater Art and Laboratory (HA)(EXP). A four-credit course popular with first-year students because of its hands-on approach emphasizing creative problem solving in a backstage environment. An introduction to all the technical elements of theater and opportunity to work on the University productions.
  • THTR 1203: Acting I (HA). In this hands-on class, students learn and develop physical and vocal techniques for text-based and improvisational performance, focusing on relationships, objectives, and actions.
  • THTR 2501: Reimagining the Classics (HL). An examination of theater from the ancient world and cultures through to modern adaptations. Students read, analyze, and perform texts from this period, studying in detail how the theater is culturally created and maintained.
  • THTR 2502: Theatrical Outsiders (HL). Over the course of history, there have been shifting definitions of “outsiders” based on mainstream cultural norms. This course explores how theater and film portray those outsiders, examining how these stories fascinate audiences and serve a purpose in society.
  • THTR 2601: Intro to Performance Design (HA). This course breaks down the fundamentals and aesthetics of design in performance. Students get the chance to create their own designs with an emphasis on how design tells a story. No prior theater or drawing experience is required.
  • THTR 3601 - Lighting Design. (HA)(EXP) A study of the practice of stage lighting, focusing on styles of production, historical methods and artistic theory. Culminates in a light design for a public theatrical production.

Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies: minor / individual courses

Students interested in pursuing a Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies minor are encouraged to take WGSS 1200 in their first two years at W&L. This class is typically offered in the Fall term and fulfills the FDR HU. Other courses in the program may also be taken in any sequence and many of the courses may satisfy FDR or major requirements.

For more information, contact the Program Head, Robin LeBlanc, Professor of Politics by email.

Writing: individual courses

All students must complete the Foundation and Distribution Writing (FW) requirement. This can be fulfilled in one of the following ways:

  • Students who have received credit from W&L through Advanced Placement examination results in English by scoring a 5 on the English Comp/Lit or English Lang/Lit exam are exempt from the writing requirement and earn 3 credits of WRIT 100.
  • Students who have received credit from W&L through International Baccalaureate by scoring a 6 or 7 on either of the two group 1 English Language A exams, English Language, or English Language and Literature, are exempt from the writing requirement and earn 3 credits of WRIT 100.
  • Students who are not exempt must take WRIT 100: Writing Seminar for First-Years during the fall or winter term of their first year.
  • International students for whom English is a non-native language are encouraged to take WRIT 100: Writing Seminar for First-Years from Professors Kao, Ruiz or Smout, who have ESOL expertise.
  • View a list of the WRIT 100 topics for the upcoming fall term.
  • See also the Writing Program website.

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