A Guide to Choosing A Pathway

One of the most challenging aspects of registering for classes is finding classes that simultaneously fulfill a pathway and ideally a major, minor, or core credit.  Many of us have a hard enough time trying to schedule the classes we need to take to graduate on time, and having to figure out when to take as many as four extra classes is a hassle at best.  According to the university website, “Pathways, clusters of courses with a common theme, promote integrative and intentional learning.”  However, given the amount of money the vast majority of us are paying to go here, nobody wants to have to spend an extra quarter of tuition to fulfill a pathway requirement.  Here are some things you should keep in mind to make fulfilling your pathway as painless as possible.

1. Completing your pathway is just as necessary to graduate as any other core requirement.

Unfortunately, the pathway is not an option.  In order to be conferred a degree, all core requirements must be met, including the pathway courses and reflection essay. There is no way around it.

2. Through planning ahead, it becomes possible to double dip in as many core requirements as possible.

Many pathways include extensive core requirement classes, including multiple RTC 1, 2, and 3 options.  Declare your pathway early on eCampus, and plan ahead to sign up for the classes you need to take when they are offered.

3. ELSJ

Another slightly different core requirement is the Experiential Learning for Social Justice class we all must take.  Fortunately, this is another class that can be found in various pathways. Do the research ahead of time and you won’t have to take an extra class.

4. Pathways may be on the way out.

The university is currently in the process of revising its curriculum for the fall of 2013.  However, any changes that may be made will only affect the incoming freshmen, and perhaps the current freshmen as well.  If you are a sophomore or junior, completing a pathway will be a necessity.

5.  Declaring your pathway is easy.

Declaring a pathway is as simple as logging onto eCampus and clicking on “Declare Pathway” in the Enterprise Menu on the left hand side. It takes 90 seconds. Don’t put it off because a hold will be place on your account that will keep you from registering for fall classes until you have declared a pathway.

With a proper amount of foresight, the pathway requirement can be navigated with relative ease.  It will not add a tremendous workload to anybody’s already busy schedule, and people have been known to actually enjoy some of the classes in their pathway.  Don’t forget to hold on to all the material you can, as an essay is due on eCampus after you complete your four classes, and the pathway won’t be fulfilled without it. 

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