School of Arts and Sciences

Learning Community Information and FAQs

Learning communities are an opportunity for incoming freshmen to meet other students and receive the academic support they need to succeed during their first year at Pitt. Studies show that students who participate in learning communities adjust better to academic life and make a deeper connection with the campus and the city. Each learning community of approximately 20 students includes a one-credit Introduction to the Arts and Sciences (FP 0001) course that discusses important resources such as the library system along with the importance of learning time management skills and using study groups wisely. Learning communities include free social and cultural events that connect with Learning Community courses.

Whether focused on the humanities or sciences, each learning community course counts toward a student’s degree. Study groups and peer mentorship help freshmen develop the skills they need at the University of Pittsburgh.

To find out how to participate in a Learning Community, contact the Office of Freshman Programs by e-mail at freshmen@pitt.edu or by phone at 412-624-6828.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Learning Communities the same as Living Learning Communities?
No. Arts and Sciences Learning Communities are academic communities and not tied to a particular Residence Hall. Freshmen in Arts and Sciences Learning Communities attend the designated classes together and participate in Learning Community activities, but do not live together. If students choose, they can both enroll in a Learning Community and participate in a Living Learning Community through Residence Life.

If I participate in a Learning Community, must I still attend a PittStart session?
Yes. You must attend a PittStart session and meet individually with your Academic Advisor.

Do I have to enroll in a Learning Community?
Participation in a Learning Community is voluntary and valuable!

Since Learning Communities have 18 to 22 students, will all my classes be small?
No. Some classes will be large lectures. Learning Community members attend the lectures as part of the larger group.

Do I have to take all the courses that are listed in a particular Learning Community to participate?
Yes. A student enrolled in a Learning Community is automatically enrolled in all of the courses in the Learning Community.

Will I take other classes besides my Learning Community classes?
Yes. You will be able to register for other classes that do not conflict with your Learning Community classes. Your Academic Advisor will help you select these at your PittStart session.

What if I expect AP credits for one of the courses that is part of my Learning Community?
If you expect AP credits you have two options in choosing to apply for a Learning Community:

  1. You can elect to participate in a Learning Community that does not contain courses for which you may receive credit.
  2. You can choose not to take the AP credits for a course that is part of the Learning Community and participate in the Learning Community.

Where can I find more information about the courses offered in Learning Communities?

You can find information about the course offered in each community by visiting this page List of Learning Communities.

Do I have to select a second preference Learning Community?
No. You do not have to select a second preference. However, since space is limited in each Learning Community, having a second preference gives you an additional opportunity to participate in a community if your first preference is closed.

Am I guaranteed a place in either my first or second choice of a Learning Community?
While we do everything we can to accommodate student requests to participate in Learning Communities, we cannot guarantee a place.

Do the Learning Communities last for the entire year?
No. Learning Communities are for the fall term only, but Learning Community students may register for classes together in the spring term if they wish. This is subject to timing and availability.

Can I participate in the Honors College and still enroll in an Arts and Sciences Learning Community?
Yes. Students who are part of the Honors College can apply to Arts and Sciences Learning Communities. Courses in Learning Communities are challenging and are taught by first-rate faculty and provide an opportunity to meet other freshmen with similar interests.

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