Academic Structure
Why are some classes pass/fail?
To encourage exploration outside your major
Psychology vs. Neuroscience
Psychology explores behavior and mental processes; neuroscience focuses on brain function and biology.
What are three types of fee that might be expected beyond tuition?
Student Activity Fee
Lab Fee
Technology Fee
Health Services Fee
Library Fee
Parking Fee
Why is a drug conviction bad specifically for college students?
If receiving federal student aid (like Pell Grants or loans) it might impact your eligibility for future funding, even if the offense occurs off-campus.
What is an "interdisciplinary program"?
A flexible major that overlaps multiple fields (e.g. economics/history/psychology).
History vs. Cultural Studies
History emphasizes chronology and sources; cultural studies interpret media, identity, and ideology.
Work-Study vs. Campus Jobs
Work-study jobs are federally subsidized and limited; campus jobs are open to all and may pay more.
In most cases can campus police carry weapons and make arrests?
Yes!
What is the main difference between 100 level courses and 300 or 400 level courses?
Lower numbers often mean intro-level, which may be attended by all students for general requirements; 300-400 typically mean advanced courses only for people in a specific major.
Political Science vs. International Relations –
Political science studies power and government; IR focuses on global systems and diplomacy.
Why would a student receive a refund check?
If their financial award exceeds tuition
What do your parents need in order to be allowed to access your academic or disciplinary reports while you're in college?
Your written consent.
FERPA
Why don't contact hours equal credits?
Because a class can be more hours per week than credits rewarded (e.g. 4 hour class worth 3 credits)
Economics vs. Finance
Economics is the study of how individuals, businesses, governments, and societies allocate scarce resources. Finance is the management of money, investments, and risk.
Why are there limits to scholarship stacking?
To ensure that financial aid covers only the actual cost of education and is distributed fairly among students, preventing anyone from receiving more aid than needed.
Under what federal law must any reports of sexual assault be investigated.
Under Title IX, schools are required to:
Prevent sexual harassment and assault on campus.
Respond promptly and fairly to reports of sexual misconduct.
Provide support to survivors, like counseling or academic accommodations.
Investigate complaints and take disciplinary action if necessary.
What is the difference between a double majors and a dual degree?
A double major earns one degree with two focuses; a dual degree earns two separate degrees, often with more credits.
Anthropology vs. Sociology
Anthropology studies cultures as a whole, often focusing on non-Western or traditional societies, while sociology examines social structures and relationships, usually within modern societies.
What is SAP?
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) – You must maintain GPA and credits each term to keep federal aid.
What is a Clery Report?
Colleges must publicly report campus crime statistics and issue timely alerts for ongoing threats