About Our Programs

AETP Courses & Programs:

Dawg Days: Jumpstart Summer Bridge

  • Six-week summer bridge experience designed to provide students with a jump start on their college experience – start the fall semester knowing a lot about academic and campus resources
  • Program is structured to provide participants with on-going support throughout their first year and providing a go to point of contact in AETP for challenges and questions
  • Participants can be residential or commute for the summer portion of the program

The Discovery Scholars Living-Learning Community (LLC):

  • Participants share a common living experience and shared course work
  • Form a connection with peer mentors from the program
  • Receive ongoing support from staff in AETP and Residential Life
  • Combine academic and co-curricular interests to make UMBC home away from home

First-Year Seminar (FYS):

  • Courses are 3-credits and fulfill General Education Program (GEP) Requirements
  • Taught by a faculty or staff instructor around a dynamic, unique topic in a small-group learning environment specifically for new students
  • Learn by sharing knowledge and experience through writing, discussions, and presentations – key skills students need for success in the classroom and beyond
  • Connect with faculty and staff instructors in a small classroom setting – they can be future recommenders, advisors, and supporters in student success

Freshman Introduction to the University Seminar (UNIV101):

  • Courses are 2-credits and help new freshmen acclimate to the UMBC community
  • Students will learn about three core pillars: academic success, campus connections, and personal/professional development
  • Engage with a knowledgeable staff instructor and an undergraduate teaching assistant
  • Connect with UMBC academic and campus resources and opportunities
  • Figure out what it will take to be a successful student during the first year of college and beyond

Transfer Introduction to the University Seminar (UNIV301):

  • Courses are 2-credits and help new transfers acclimate to the UMBC community
  • Students will learn about three core pillars: academic success/academic discipline resources, campus connections, and personal/professional development
  • Core curriculum was originally designed based on transfer student needs, at the request of transfer students
  • Connect quickly with UMBC academic/campus resources and major departments/professional development opportunities to maximize time on campus

Resources for Faculty & Staff

Faculty Best Practices in Teaching First-Year Students and those in Transition

1/22/2024