Choosing Courses in Preparation for a Future Major Decision
Shanon FitzGerald, Social Sciences Correspondent
As sophomores at Princeton face the decision of declaring a concentration, choosing representative courses in Sophomore Spring can provide a clearer picture of academic life in potential majors. By following these steps, you can make an informed decision about your concentration.
- Identify foundational and core courses within the major, focusing on those at the introductory and lower-division levels (usually numbered 100-299). These courses often represent key concepts, skills, and approaches of the discipline and form the basis for advanced study.
- Look for courses that cover essential theories, practical skills, or central methodologies. For example, in Political Science, core courses examine political theory and government structures, while in English, foundational courses focus on critical reading and analysis applicable broadly across the discipline.
- Choose courses with varied formats and requirements, such as lectures, labs, seminars, or research projects, to experience different teaching methods typical of the department’s academic life.
- Consider prerequisites and enrollment policies—start with courses open to first- or second-year students (often 100- and 200-level) to ensure accessibility while still being representative.
- Examine course syllabi or descriptions to assess if they include research, writing, discussion, or applied work, which reflect important academic practices in the department.
- Consult departmental advisors or review curriculum guides for recommended courses that represent the major well. Some colleges provide course lists or quizzes to help select majors and courses suited to your interests and goals.
By selecting such representative courses, you can experience the intellectual challenges, workload, and types of assignments typical of the major, providing a clearer picture of academic life in each department.
For a practical example, if you are exploring Political Science, you might take introductory courses on political theory and structures, then possibly classes in public administration or international relations to understand applied aspects of the field. If considering English, entry-level courses focused on critical reading and research across disciplines can offer insight into both content and skill development.
The shopping courses in Sophomore Spring can serve as a research project for the concentration the student eventually declares. These courses offer an opportunity for sophomores to gain a deeper understanding of their chosen department before declaring a concentration.
It is essential to remember that a concentration is a significant commitment and should reflect the kind of work one wants to devote several years to. Factors such as the size, specificity, professor's reputation, and correspondence with potential research interests also determine a course's representativeness. By considering these factors, you can ensure your course choices are both accessible and well-rounded, enabling you to grasp the academic culture and intellectual demands characteristic of each potential major.
