Frequently Asked Questions
What do "Distros" and "RAD" mean?
"Distros" are distribution requirements, which require you to take a variety of courses in four different areas. The specifics of this will be available in the Academic Catalog, but you needn't worry about Distros too much at first: no matter what you take your first term, you will inevitably be fulfilling some requirements.
"RAD" refers to the Recognition and Affirmation of Difference Requirement which can be satisfied through a wide variety of courses. Carleton students are required to successfully complete at least one six-credit course or its equivalent centrally concerned with issues and/or theories of gender, sexual orientation, class, race, culture, religion, or ethnicity as these may be found anywhere in the world and requiring reflection on the challenges and benefits of dialogue across differences. Students are urged to complete this requirement in their first five terms.
Other FAQs
- When do Carleton students declare a major? If I already know what I want to major in, can I declare a major early?Carleton students declare majors spring term of their sophomore year. Students cannot declare earlier. Why...
- Are courses at St. Olaf available to me?Yes. By special arrangement and if space is available, students may take courses at St....
- Do I have to take the placement tests?While certain SAT II scores may exempt you from some placement tests, all incoming students...
- O.K. So I'll take three courses my first term. How do I know which ones to take?Most students will pre-register for one of the special courses for first-year students. In order...
- What do I need to know about the 3-3 calendar?You may have already noticed unusual features of Carleton's calendar. In some ways, it resembles...
- Will I have an adviser to help me register?You will be assigned an academic adviser after summer registration, but before you arrive on...
- What has to be done to fulfill the writing requirement?Based on how you scored on the self-placement writing placement exam you will be directed...
- What are the departmental policies on AP scores and placement?See the Prior Credits Policy on the Registrar’s web site....
- Where do I get my books?You will be able to purchase textbooks, manuals, and all necessary materials at The Carleton...
- How do I know what courses are available?Consult the paper schedule on course information sent to you in summer mailing # 3...
- What do "Distros" and "RAD" mean?"Distros" are distribution requirements, which require you to take a variety of courses in four...
- What do HU, AL, SS, MS, and ND stand for?About one-third of the courses you take at Carleton will fulfill distribution requirements in our...
- What is a concentration?Students may elect to complete one of Carleton’s 16 concentrations in addition to a major....
- What is "scrunch"?"Scrunch" refers to Carleton's Satisfactory/ Credit/No Credit (S/Cr/NC) grading option. For this option, S=A to...
- What should I do to prepare for placement tests?The purpose of the placement tests is to make sure you get into the right...
- What is the purpose of academic advising?Academic advising is an educational process intended to aid students in making decisions about their...
- What do I need to know about Priority Registration?Carleton students register in priority order. That means that for most courses, seniors register first...