Academic Opportunities

Download as PDF

Jump to section

Special Academic Opportunities

Foundations First Year Experience

All first-year students participate in a Foundations Learning Community (FLC) as part of their First-Year Experience at Assumption, a program designed to offer new students the tools they need to navigate the transition from high school to college. Students join a Foundations Learning Community by taking two courses together as a group. One course is a Foundations Cornerstone, either English, Philosophy or Theology, and the other might be an introductory course in the student’s intended major. By sharing two courses with the same small group—no more than 22—students get to know each other and their professors quickly. They feel more comfortable in the classroom and that means a more engaging environment for asking questions and interacting with peers and professors. With their learning community, students participate in workshops throughout the fall semester, facilitated by faculty or staff members and upper-class students. The workshops focus on skills that are key to a successful transition such as managing time well, studying effectively in college, preparing for advising meetings and registering for classes. An Enhanced Foundations Learning Community offers a year-long experience with additional academic support through peer tutoring. Enhanced FLC faculty also serve as academic advisors as well as instructors. With closer, year-long connection with faculty and peer tutors, students benefit from even more support.
 

The Honors Program

In keeping with Assumption’s tradition of academic excellence, the University offers the Assumption University Honors Program, designed to foster academic engagement inside and outside the classroom. The program promotes intellectual friendship and discourse, while providing a common, intensive learning experience. This program allows students to earn an Honors Program Certificate. Admission is by invitation and application. Outstanding accepted students who have demonstrated academic excellence in standardized test scores, rank in class, engagement inside and outside the classroom, and a passion for learning are invited to apply to the program. Students with an outstanding first semester may also apply to join the program at the beginning of the sophomore year. The Program Director will invite eligible students to apply during the spring semester. Transfer students are eligible to apply to the Honors Program at the time of admission by submitting a transcript and writing an essay. Interested students should contact the Director of the Honors Program, Professor Rachel Coleman. Curricular details can be found in the “Interdisciplinary Programs” section of this catalog.
 

Global Study Abroad and Study Away

Assumption University encourages students to spend a semester or a year abroad as a part of their undergraduate education through one of its approved study abroad programs. Assumption students study across the globe in locations like Australia, Singapore, Chile, Costa Rica, England, France, Ireland, Italy, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, and Semester at Sea. Host institutions include Oxford University, Stellenbosch University, and the University of St. Andrews. Stateside, students have participated in the Washington Center for Internships and Seminars, the Washington Semester at American University, and the New York Media Experience. Some study abroad programs permit students to begin language study; other programs offer language immersion—including homestays—for those who wish to achieve fluency. All financial aid applies, including all merit and athletic scholarships, with the exception of work study. Interested students should contact Professor Richard Bonanno. 

Summer Semesters

Assumption University’s summer courses are equivalent to their fall and spring semester counterparts. They maintain the same small class sizes and level of academic rigor and are often taught by the same professors. Summer semesters are six weeks long, with courses covering the same material as traditional semester-long courses in an accelerated format. Most summer courses are offered asynchronously online, while some meet at designated days and times. Summer study provides students with an opportunity to accelerate their degree program, catch up on coursework, reduce their course load in a future semester, or focus exclusively on a particular course.

Current Assumption University students register for summer courses using the student portal. Payment of summer tuition and any outstanding charges is required before registration is considered complete. Students from other colleges and universities may register for summer courses by completing the visiting student form available on the Registrar’s website. Registration is accepted through the first day of the summer semester. Unlike fall and spring semesters, there is no week-long add/drop period.

Students who enroll in a summer course and later decide to withdraw are eligible for refunds according to the following schedule:

  • Before classes begin: 100% refund
  • During the first week of the semester: 60% refund
  • During or after the second week of the semester: No refund

After the first week of the semester, a student who withdraws from a course will receive a “W” on their transcript. Students may withdraw from a course through the second-to-last day of class by contacting the Registrar’s Office. Simply failing to attend class or participate in online coursework does not constitute an official withdrawal. Students must submit a formal withdrawal request to the Registrar’s Office.

Internship for Credit

Putting what you learn in the classroom to work in the real world, and bringing what you learn at work back into the classroom makes for powerful learning. Internships are invaluable. Non-credit bearing internships are offered and approved through the Career Development and Internship Center (CDIC), and may be paid or unpaid. Internships for credit add a substantive academic component to the work experience and may also be either paid or unpaid. In recent years, students have undertaken internships for credit in a wide variety of settings: with state representatives, in museums and archives, in radio, television, and newspapers; in banking, public relations, marketing, human resources, labor-management relations, and in the medical profession with pharmacists, dentists and surgeons. Recent sites include the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Old Sturbridge Village, and the Telegram and Gazette. Students can complete full time credit-bearing internships in Washington, D.C., New York City, or overseas. The student must hold a grade point average of 2.8 or higher and have the academic background necessary to work effectively at the internship site. Typically, an internship for credit carries three academic credits for 140 hours of work on site, and completion of those academic components determined when the experience was designed. A student may complete only one internship for credit, unless otherwise required by his or her major. Applications are available from the Registrar’s Office.

Independent Study

A truly engaged student may develop an interest in a field or subject not addressed in the usual course offerings. Such a student might choose to undertake an Independent Study, a uniquely-designed course with a professor of relevant expertise. Applications for Independent Study are available online through the portal. The supervising faculty completes the application, not the student. Once the electronic form is submitted, it will be routed to the relevant department chair and Provost for review and approval. Only one Independent Study is permitted per student each semester.

Fulbright and Other Post-Baccalaureate Scholarship Mentoring

Prestigious scholarships enable Assumption students and post-graduates to engage in learning experiences in the United States and abroad. Opportunities are available for undergraduate and post-graduate scholarship support. Some of these scholarships opportunities include the Fulbright for postgraduate study abroad, the Marshall and Rhodes for postgraduate study in the United Kingdom, the William Simon Fellowship for Noble Purpose, the James Madison Scholarship, the Barry Goldwater Scholarship, the N.C.A.A. Post-Graduate Scholarship, and the David L. Boren Graduate Fellowship. For more information contact Professor Thomas Wheatland, 508 767-7562.

Worcester Art Museum Membership

Assumption is an Institutional Partner of the Worcester Art Museum, a world class art museum located close to the campus. Assumption students are admitted free of charge with their student IDs. Visit the WAM website. 

Hanover Theatre Conservatory Courses

Through Assumption’s partnership with the Hanover Theatre Conservatory for the Performing Arts, Assumption students may take one-credit courses in acting, dance, set design, costuming and more at the Conservatory free of charge. Course enrollment in classes must be approved by Toby Norris, Chair, Department of Art, Music and Theatre and will be treated as an independent study. Course availability will be on a first come, first served basis; the offering is available at The Hanover Theatre. All University academic and conduct polices apply to students taking Hanover Conservatory classes. Course registration is limited to two one-credit courses per semester, and six total. Prerequisites may apply. For more information contact Dr. Jennifer Morrison. 

Cross Registration Through the Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts (HECCMA)

In 1968, Assumption University joined with other institutions of higher learning in the Worcester area to organize the Worcester Consortium for Higher Education, more recently renamed the Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts. Cross registration between partner institutions widens the range of study for all.

Cross-Registration Standard Policies

  • Full-time, matriculated, undergraduate day students are eligible to cross-register. 
  • Only one cross-registration course per semester is permitted (regardless of credit).
  • Outstanding obligations at your home school may prevent cross-registration ability.
  • Undergraduate courses only (continuing education courses are excluded) – check with HOST school Registrar’s Office for exceptions.
  • Fall and spring semester courses only. 
  • Auditing is not permitted.
  • You are responsible for travel. You might be able use The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) “College Route” (Line 10) connecting three HECCMA institutions: Assumption University, College of the Holy Cross, and Worcester State University. Busses in Worcester are free. Plan travel time generously into your daily schedule.
  • Quinsigamond Community College and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences are no longer members of HECCMA.

How to Register for a Cross-Registration Course

  • Identify a specific course (you must visit each host’s website, links below) and consult with your advisor.
  • Review the host institution's calendar, which may differ from Assumption. 
  • Fill out and the cross registration form on the Registrar's website.  
  • Obtain the necessary signatures indicated on the form and then bring it to the host institution's registrar for registration.
  • Attend the course as you would a home course.
  • The host institution will send our registrar your final grade, which will be posted to your AU transcript.
  • The course is free, but if there are lab fees or other charges, you’ll have to pay them to the host institution.

Participating Schools:

American Antiquarian Society American Studies Seminar

Each fall, the American Antiquarian Society and five Worcester Universities sponsor a research seminar at the Antiquarian Society library. The seminar is conducted by a scholar familiar with the Society’s holdings in early American history, and the seminar topic is related to his or her field of research. The participating students are chosen by a screening committee made up of representatives of the five participating Universities: Assumption University, Clark University, the College of the Holy Cross, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and Worcester State University. The seminar topic and research methods combine several disciplines, and students from a wide variety of majors have participated successfully in this unique undergraduate opportunity. For further information, contact Prof. John Bell, jbell@assumption.edu.

Marine Studies Consortium

The Marine Studies Consortium is an association of 18 educational and research institutions in Massachusetts dedicated to increasing understanding and stewardship of coastal and marine ecosystems. The Consortium pursues this mission through an academic program and policy development efforts centered on protection and management of marine environments. The Consortium’s academic program offers unique learning opportunities, including the courses Introduction to Marine Mammals and Coastal Zone Management. Other courses, such as Water Resources Management, Biology of Fishes, and Biology of Whales supplement Assumption's course offerings in the Biological and Physical Sciences Department. Consortium courses are taught by working professionals from research and policy centers, providing students with a real world perspective on marine science and policy problems. Visit the Marine Studies website. For more information, contact Prof. Erin Tuttle.

Pre-Professional Programs

Preparation for Study in One of the Health Professions

Students interested in studying one of the health professions (e.g., medicine, dentistry, nursing, optometry, physical therapy, pharmacy, nuclear medicine, etc.) can major in one of the sciences or they can choose one of a variety of non-science majors. However, in order to be considered for admission to a graduate program in the health sciences, the student must complete the prerequisite coursework specified by their program of interest. The Assumption University health professions advisor and the faculty of the natural science department assist the student in planning an appropriate course of study. The University also has a Health Professions Committee that can provide students with a letter of recommendation from the Natural Science Department. Through the Natural Sciences Club, the student may have the opportunity to meet members of the health professions. Many students interested in one of the health professions complete an internship in one or more areas related to their specific interests.

Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Sciences Program

Assumption offers a post-baccalaureate certificate program in the pre-health sciences for students that need to complete additional science coursework prior to applying to a graduate program in one of the health sciences. Students in the program work with the health professions advisor, Professor Steven Theroux, and design a course of study. Applicants should have a B.A. or B.S. from an accredited institution and an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. An application for the program can be obtained by calling Prof. Theroux at 508 767-7545. Completed applications are due February 1.

Pre-Law Program

To prepare students interested in law school to meet the many intellectual and ethical challenges of the legal profession, the Pre- Law Program combines Assumption University’s commitment to a strong liberal education with the personalized advising, co-curricular activities, and development opportunities necessary for success in law school and careers in law. In keeping with guidance from the American Bar Association and law school admissions staff, Assumption’s Pre-Law Program does not require a specific slate of courses. Instead, dedicated advisors help students from all majors identify law schools and areas within the law that best fit their interests and skills. They also help students tailor their academic programs, extracurricular activities, and community service opportunities in the way that best prepares them for law school and a career in the law. This approach provides students the freedom to choose a course of study that best suits them. Reflecting Assumption University’s commitment to the liberal arts and forming well-rounded individuals, the best preparation for law school is a field of study about which students are genuinely enthusiastic and in which they can excel. In addition to academic advising, Pre-Law advisors hold informational meetings for students, arrange meetings with Assumption University alumni who are in law school or in the legal profession, help identify legal internships, and organize professional development opportunities. They also aid students in identifying opportunities for the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) preparation, while guiding them through the law school application process.

Assumption University’s Pre-Law Program emphasizes cultivating relationships among students, faculty, staff, and alumni interested in careers in law. Pre-Law students and the Pre-Law advisors form a community for sharing advice, mentoring, and networking to aid students in achieving their goals for studying law and pursuing a career in law. This student-centered approach distinguishes Assumption’s Pre-Law Program from programs offered at most colleges and universities. For more information contact one of the Pre-Law advisors, Prof. Carl Robert Keyes, ckeyes@assumption.edu, or Prof. Brigid Flaherty Staab, bc.flaherty@assumption.edu.

Pre-Law Certificate

Assumption’s Pre-Law Program also offers students the opportunity to earn a Pre-Law Certificate. Unlike other programs that require taking specific courses, Assumption’s Pre-Law Certificate allows students to earn the certificate by participating in a variety of activities during their undergraduate studies, making it possible to decide their own unique path to preparation for law school and careers in the law. This flexible program is designed to encourage deep engagement and meaningful experiences.

During their undergraduate studies, students have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities and experiential learning opportunities that count toward the Pre-Law Certificate. Each activity earns points, and once a student accumulates the required number, they will receive their certificate upon graduation.

Here are some examples of activities and experiential learning opportunities:

  • Internships: Students gain hands-on experience through internships selected with the help of Pre-Law Advisors.
  • Classes: Students deepen their knowledge by taking classes of their choosing and reflecting in a brief writing at the conclusion of the course on how they think the course contributed to their preparation for law school and a legal career.
  • Shadow Days: Students observe Assumption alumni attorneys in legal settings through shadow days.
  • LSAT Preparation and Test-Taking: Students improve their law school application qualifications by completing an LSAT prep course and taking the LSAT.
  • Campus & Community Engagement: Students participate in Pre-Law events or other programs on campus.
  • Research & Writing: Students complete an honors thesis or engage in collaborative research with a faculty member.

Students can also earn points for activities such as participating in Model Senate or serving as an officer in student organizations. Each activity contributes to a comprehensive educational experience, preparing students not just for law school, but for a lifelong career in the legal field. By the time they graduate, students will have a personalized portfolio of experiences and skills that can help them be ready for law school and the legal profession.

Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Theology Certificate Program in Philosophy

The post-baccalaureate Pre-Theology Certificate Program consists of two components: (1) a course of study principally in Philosophy intended for men discerning a vocation to the priesthood after their University years; (2) a course of study principally in Theology for men seeking admission to the Assumptionist Congregation. If a candidate is judged to have completed the first course of study elsewhere, he may proceed directly to the second component of the program under the supervision of the appropriate department Chair and Assumptionist mentor. The first component recognizes the importance of solid philosophical training in the serious study of theology. A two-semester course in Philosophy and Theology anchors the curriculum. In addition, students complete five one-semester courses that introduce the chief areas of philosophical investigation and the history of philosophy and at least three electives chosen from a group of upper-level courses in Philosophy, Theology, Political Philosophy, and other approved areas. Each student will be provided with individual guidance by a member of the Philosophy Department. For further information contact the chair of the department.

The second component offers a course of study, principally in Theology, designed to satisfy the requirements established by the Assumptionist Congregation. Students may pursue up to 48 additional credits in courses offered as independent studies on topics such as Assumptionist and Augustinian Spiritual Thought; The Theology of Prayer; Sacraments and Worship; History of the Church in 19th Century France; The Theology of Religious Life; The History of the Assumptionists; Journal Writing, etc. Students may pursue courses from this component simultaneously with the first component. Each student will be provided with the individual guidance of an Assumptionist and a member of the Theology Department.

Air Force and Army Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC)

Assumption University students may participate in the Air Force or Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Qualified U.S. citizens who earn their degree from Assumption University and satisfactorily complete the ROTC program requirements will be commissioned as second lieutenants. Air Force ROTC offers a four-year and two-year program for qualified individuals to earn their commission; two- and three-year scholarship opportunities are also available to qualified individuals in specific areas of academic study. Army ROTC offers a four, three and two-year program for qualified individuals to earn their commission; two-, three- and four-year scholarships are also available to qualified individuals. For more details on either program, write to the Department of Aerospace Studies (Air Force) or Department of Military Services (Army), 100 Institute Road, Worcester MA 01609, call them at 508-831-5747 (Air Force), or 508-831-5268 (Army) or email them at airforce@wpi.edu or armyrotc@wpi.edu .