Not sure what classes to take in your first term at PSU? Use the registration guides below for suggestions, and if you need more help, schedule an advising appointment or call 503-725-3822.
You should also view the registration guide for the language you are majoring in, which have more specific information (Your browser will need to be logged into your pdx.edu account to access the guides.):
GENERAL SUGGESTIONS:
- Full-time is 12 credits. Most courses are 4 credits, so three courses is typically considered full-time. You should also budget 2-3 hours per credit outside of class for homework and studying.
- Consider the times when courses are offered and how they fit in your personal schedule/preferences. If you are not a morning person, you may want to avoid 8 am courses. If you have school-aged children, how does that impact your choices?
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees are offered in the following languages: French, German, Japanese, Russian, Spanish. First and second year languages do not apply directly to the major, but may be necessary, if you are not placed at the third-year level. Credits for 101-203 of the language will apply towards the 180 total credit requirement.
First-Year Students:
| Required courses | Advisor Pro Tips |
|---|
| UNST 1XX First Year Inquiry or Honors 101 The Global City (5 credits) | These are yearlong sequences, so check out the First Year Inquiry Planning Guide and Honors website for descriptions and bios, and pick a theme that interests you. |
| 101 of your major language or appropriate level if you are a Spanish major (4-5 credits) | Take the course recommended by our Language Placement Advice. If you test above 203 or have completed up to the 203 level, see your advisor for suggestions. |
| Any fine/performing arts, science or social science course (4-5 credits) | Pick a class from a department you will enjoy learning more about. Consider LING 232 Language & Society. |
Helpful video: How to register for FRINQs & SINQs
Transfers with 30-89 credits:
Review courses above first, and take any courses that are not yet completed.
| Required courses | Advisor Pro Tips |
|---|
| UNST 2XX Sophomore Inquiry or HON 260 Honors Writing for Sophomore Transfers (4 credits) | Refer to descriptions on the websites linked and pick a theme that interests you. American Identities, Global Perspectives, and Interpreting the Past are good UNST options. |
| 101/201 of your major language or appropriate level if you are a Spanish major (4-5 credits) | Take the course recommended by our Language Placement Advice. If you test above 203 or have completed up to the 203 level, see your advisor for suggestions. |
| Any fine/performing arts, science or social science course (4-5 credits) | Pick a class from a department you will enjoy learning more about. Consider LING 232 Language & Society. |
Transfers with 90 or more credits:
Review courses above first, and take any courses that are not yet completed. If you are transferring 135 or more credits, you do not need the Upper Division Cluster, and we strongly recommend meeting with your academic advisor to create a plan for your degree completion.
| Required courses | Advisor Pro Tips |
|---|
| Upper Division Cluster course or HON 360 Honors Writing (4 credits) | Suggested Cluster options: American Identities, Global Perspectives, and Interpreting the Past |
| 101/201 of your major language or appropriate level if you are a Spanish major (4-5 credits) | Take the course recommended by our Language Placement Advice. If you test above 203 or have completed up to the 203 level, see your advisor for suggestions. |
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