The University of Tampa has specialized First-Year Studies courses to meet the needs of a variety of entering students. First-Year Studies courses are one of several high impact practices that are built into Spartan Studies. Opportunities to participate in well-designed high impact practices improve a student’s likelihood of success in meeting their educational goals. This requirement must be met at The University of Tampa and cannot be transferred in.
Entering First-Year Students
Students that are starting their college career take a two-semester sequence of courses with a cohort of fellow students, a faculty member, and a peer mentor. When possible, we place students with others that have similar majors or interests. We strive to provide an environment where students can build community with one another, their faculty, and their peer mentor.
Entering Transfer Students
A one-semester version of our first-year experience course was developed, and is required, for all entering transfer students. While transfer students have experience with college, we want to make sure that they have the information needed to successfully navigate UT’s systems and resources. Additionally, we believe it is important for all our students to build a connection with fellow students, faculty, and the community. The peer mentor for this course is a fellow transfer student who understands and can help manage the unique needs that transfer students face.
Entering Veterans
A special version of UTAMPA 103 was designed, and is required, for our entering veterans. This course is taught by one of our faculty who is a Veteran. The peer mentor is also a Veteran. While the course covers the same topics as UTAMPA 103, it does so with a focus on the unique needs of our Veterans and provides opportunities for our Veterans to build community with other Veterans on campus and to learn about community resources that support Veterans.