Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Most majors don't require you to take a specific course or set of courses during your first year in order to complete your degree in four years. However, for some majors listed below, there is initial coursework that is strongly recommended or required for first-year schedules. Your registration counselor is equipped with the information to guide you in creating an appropriate class schedule. Be sure to let your registration counselor know if any of the following are an area of interest: Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Science/Computer Engineering, Engineering Dual Degree Program, Math, Music, Nursing, or Physics.
Admission Requirements
Mathematics: Two years of college prep mathematics, C average or better
Foreign Language: Two years of one foreign language, C average or better
General Education at PLU
Embracing the Life of the Mind: First-Year Experience Program
- Writing 101
- First-Year Inquiry (190)
- January Term Course
Engaging Arts and Performance
- Art, Music or Theatre
- Physical Activity
Interpreting Living Traditions for a Humane Future
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Religion (two courses)
Exploring Nature and Number
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Natural Sciences, Computer Science or Mathematics
- Science and Scientific Method
Investigating Human Behavior, Culture and Institutions
Select two courses chosen from different disciplines:
- Anthropology
- Economics
- History
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Sociology
Encountering Perspectives on Diversity
- Alternative Perspectives
- Cross-Cultural Perspectives
Producing and Presenting Culminating Scholarship
- Senior Seminar/Capstone
International Honors Program
The International Honors Program (IHON) is a rigorous alternatives to the General Education Program at PLU. Rooted in the university's emphasis on liberal arts education, International Honors consists of interdisciplinary courses that explore contemporary issues and their historical foundations through an integrated, multi-national approach. Students with an exemplary records of academic (3.6 GPA and higher) and service achievement are encouraged to apply for admission to this competitive program. A limited number of spaces remain available in the International Honors Program. Please go to www.plu.edu/admission/honors-program to learn more.
Embracing the Life of the Mind: First-Year Experience Program
- Writing 101
- First-Year Inquiry (190/112)
- January Term
International Honors
- 111 Authority and Discovery
- 112 Liberty and Power
- 200 - level, four courses
- 300 - level, one course
Physical Activity
Mathematical Reasoning
Science and Scientific Method
Alternative Perspectives
Cross-Cultural Perspectives
Senior Seminar/Capstone
College of Arts and Sciences
Minimum of 40 credits of upper-division coursework.
Minimum of 128 credits to graduate.
Majors & Minors
Majors: You will have to select at least one major area of study. But relax–you don't need to do this for your first year. Some majors do require an early declaration if you are to fit everything into four years, so if you have some ideas about a potential major or majors, tell your registration counselor before you register for classes. Your registration counselor can help you pick the right classes to keep your options open.
Minors: Many students choose to complete one or more minor areas of study in addition to a major. In most cases minors are not required.
College of Arts and Science Requirements
Students who choose a major within the College of Arts and Sciences must meet this requirement. Please see the PLU Catalog for details.