Frequently Asked Questions

Who can take an Ithaca seminar?
The program is open to all incoming first-year students.

Do I have to take a seminar?
For Fall 2012 all students enrolling in the Park School, School of Humanities and Sciences, and the School of Health Sciences and Human Performance are required to enroll in an Ithaca Seminar.  For students in the Schools of Music and Business, the Ithaca Seminar is still encouraged but it is optional. 

Do the seminars fulfill College requirements for graduation?
Yes. Although each school at Ithaca College has somewhat different requirements, an Ithaca seminar meets at least one requirement for every student. All seminars count towards liberal arts (LA) requirements and distribution requirements -- social science (SS), fine arts (FA), natural science (NS), and humanities (HU). Ithaca seminars also meet general education requirements in the School of Humanities and Sciences.

How does the Ithaca Seminar Program help with my transition to college?
Each seminar will dedicate one hour a week during which the faculty member and students will focus on topics that will help first-year students make a successful transition to Ithaca College. In addition all seminar sections will participate in a variety of programming and special events designed specifically to introduce students to Ithaca and Ithaca College. 

Can I take a seminar in the spring term?
No. Seminars are only offered in the fall.

Can I take more than one Ithaca seminar?
No. Availability is limited, and we want to ensure that as many students as possible have an opportunity to take a seminar.

Who can I contact to answer my questions about the Ithaca Seminars?
Associate Professor Shaianne Osterreich is the academic coordinator for the Ithaca Seminar Program.