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Carleton's liberal arts approach offers many different paths to satisfy the College's distribution and graduation requirements. That means countless opportunities--and a sometimes dizzying array of choices.

To help you weigh your options, here are some questions and suggestions to consider.

Did you pre-register?

Are you pre-registered for one or more special first-year courses? (You may confirm this by viewing the "My Class Schedule" link in the Academic Profile section of the Students menu on The Hub in late July.) You'll want to make a note of the course time so you choose additional courses that don't conflict.

Are you planning to take a language?

If you're taking a language, be aware that most language courses start their sequence in the fall. So if you don't begin a language course then, you'll have to wait a whole year to get started. The exceptions are Latin and Hebrew, which offer the entry-level (101) course in other terms.

If you have not studied a language before arriving at Carleton, you may want to start working toward the language requirement soon. Consider taking an introductory language course early in your first year.

If you studied a language in high school but don't feel excited about continuing it, you could consider starting a new language. Carleton offers many languages not commonly taught in high schools, including Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Hebrew, and Ancient Greek.

Learn more about choosing a language.

Are you considering a math course?

Most first-year students will want to start in the calculus sequence. Consult the mathematics decision tree for help.

Are you considering computer science?

Recommended computer science course for first-year students is CS 111: Introduction to Computer Science. Learn more.

How's your distribution?

As you look at your potential courses for Fall term, are all of them in one group (Social Sciences, Humanities, etc.)? Consider substituting a course from a different area of study to lend balance to your schedule.

Have a major in mind?

Although you can't declare a major until spring of your sophomore year, it never hurts to think ahead. Check our departments and programs page to see if the department you are considering has suggested particular courses appropriate for your first year.

Considering music lessons?

Have you considered music lessons? You can register for a music lesson in addition to your three regular courses any term.

Want a workout?

You're engaging your mind, but what about your body? You can register for a physical education class in addition to your three regular courses.