How many courses on average does a student take?
Well it mainly depends on which school (Sciences or Humanities) you are in, as well as your major. The number of mandatory courses you have to take in each semester is different accordingly (see the Handbook of the Major). Your load of courses also depends on how many other school electives and USCs (University Study Courses - interdisciplinary courses) you decide to take per semester. 7-8 courses in total is said to be an adequate amount, especially for the first semester, although the science majors have labs in addition to this. Each major has a recommended study plan which ensures an even workload (see the Handbook of the Major).
It is also advised not to overload yourself starting with your first semester, as it is the case with some of the very motivated students. This is because it may be difficult to make up for the failed courses in the following year (when you tend to have a tighter schedule) and it would a pity to dedicate all your time only on your courses and not take part in the University Events, which make our on campus life very cool and unique.
What if I decide to change my major after the first year? Is it possible?
Yes, it is possible for you to change your major in the 2nd year. Some students after their first year, or even first semester decide to change their major within the same school, or even to the other school. This is one of the great advantages Jacobs offers you, as in your first year you are given the opportunity to take courses from both schools, which definitely helps those who are unsure of what to major in.
If you decide to change your major to the other school, you would have to make sure that you fulfill the requirements (mandatory courses) you have missed in the previous semester or year. This can be challenging yet not impossible.
How do I put my semester schedule together? How do I know which courses to take?
Most importantly, you have to make sure you are taking the mandatory courses of your major. Now for the rest of the courses, if you are unsure of what to choose, there is a so called ‘Drop/add period’ where you get to attend the lectures and seminars you are interested in.
You should use this period to attend as many courses you want to, in order to decide which ones you want to take.
Do we have an Academic Counselor/ Adviser like many of us did in high school?
Yes. You will be assigned with an academic adviser; a professor at Jacobs. The professor will not necessarily be the professor of your major, but most likely someone from the school you are in. They will answer your questions about course selections and general questions regarding academics. You will get acquainted with them during o-week. Please make sure that you schedule a meeting with him/her before University starts, so that you make sure that you took the right decision in choosing your courses and you sort out all your uncertainties regarding your major.
Am I allowed to take any language course that I want?
Yes. You would have to take a placement test in in order to prove your qualification though. Placement tests are also conducted to assess your level of knowledge and instruction for the particular language course (e.g. if student with basic German knowledge already wants to start with the intermediate level , he/she would have to give the basic level (A1) placement exam). The language courses that our University offers are German, Spanish, French and Chinese. The placement tests will take place during O-Week. Please see the schedule, for more information about how they are scheduled.
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