Why Should I Choose the University 101 Program?

It is an academic program designed to help students successfully navigate the challenges and meet the expectations of being an undergraduate student scholar at a research university. We have high expectations for our students and want to provide a challenging and supportive environment that helps students maximize their potential now and in the future. Studies suggest that students who participate in seminars like University 101 tend to earn higher grades and to continue in college until graduation more so than those students who do not participate. Please see our Student Achievement and Persistence Research page for more information.

Furthermore, we want you to feel comfortable here and make meaningful connections to faculty, staff, and other students. Following UNC’s tradition of personal attention to its students, University 101 courses are small in size, and each section includes a class leader (peer mentor).  Instructors and class leaders will support you individually and help you make the most of your college education and create an environment where you can build strong friendships and lasting peer networks. In addition to helping you in class, class leaders will also plan campus events (e.g., football games, study nights, etc.) throughout the semester. See our staff section, which includes all of our instructors and class leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does this program help me fulfill my graduation requirements?

  Yes! University 101 allows students to earn 3 credits in the Liberal Arts Curriculum (LAC) in the Social & Behavioral Sciences: Human Behavior, Culture, or Social Frameworks category. It may also fulfills major requirements (for specific majors) or as part of university wide electives.

• Who should take this course?

  This course was designed to challenge all students to achieve at a higher level, including:

  • Entering first-time Freshman students
  • Students who may have struggled their first semester(s) and need more help excelling in college
  • Transfer students, Veterans and nontraditional students who need help transitioning to the challenges and expectations of the university
  • Any undergraduate student interested in the topics
• What are some of the activities included in the course?

  Classes are designed to be highly interactive and student-centered. Students will have frequent opportunities to directly apply new skills to their current coursework. Topics range from research skills, time management and organizational strategies, memory and information processing and motivation. Please see the link below for the full course description and student learning objectives.

  Course Description and Student Learning Objectives

• Are entering freshmen required to participate?

  No, enrollment is limited and participation is based on early selection.

• How do I register for UNIV 101?

  You can register for UNIV 101 with your advisor for either fall or spring. See more information on our Registration and Textbook Information page.