Pathways

PATHWAYS is a unique group of academic programs that provide interdisciplinary and integrative scholarly experiences for first-year students.  

The components include seminars, classes, workshops, and advising programs.  All programs offer individualized guidance while helping students become invested members of a learning-community cohort. 

Pathways' interactive classes grant students an opportunity to experience small group dynamics in diverse classrooms.  These small classes foster the development and enhancement of critical thinking, presentation and research skills.  Through Pathways programming, students meet and connect with faculty and upper class students from a variety of departments.

The program is designed to support and retain a diverse student body. 

WHY should you participate in Pathways?

As a Pathways student you will become a member of a group of scholars dedicated to making the most of their education and increasing their chance of graduating on time while enjoying their college experience.

HOW will Pathways help you meet these goals? By providing:

  • Small interactive classes

  • Dialogue with faculty and guest lecturers 

  • Individualized guidance and support  

  • Peer learning

  • Academic & research skill-building workshops & courses

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Pathways
Fall Semester opportunities:

  • Choose from the numerous options of "Topic RAPs" which all include a RAP seminars (UNIV190R)
  • Small group Advising Workshops
  • An Independent Study for Upper-Class Students Focused on Spring Course Development & Outreach
  • Ongoing Program Development & Student Recruitment

Pathways
Spring Semester Opportunities:

  • A 3-Credit interdisciplinary course, "Investigating Higher Education" (UNIV 190P)
  • Student Panel Presentations to learn more about a variety of opportunities including; Five College Interchange, Community Service Learning, Domestic Exchange, International Program Exchange, Internships and Coops.
  • Ongoing Program Review & Evaluation

 

Investigating Higher Education (UNIV 190P)

This Pathways class takes a critical eye to college and the higher educational system, while providing students an opportunity to delve into questions that relate to their personal experience and individual interests.

A unique model, this 3-credit interdisciplinary class has been developed by group of upper-classmen and faculty together. Check out the COURSE DESCRIPTION for more course information, objectives and requirements.

 

Questions?

Contact us at pathwaysumass@gmail.com

 

Pamela R. Marsh-Williams, Ph.D.
Assistant Provost & Dean

This website is part of Undergraduate Advising & Learning Communities. We provide undergraduate students a variety of opportunities and services designed to facilitate the best academic experience possible. 609 Goodell Building, UMass Amherst.

UA&LC Units: Undergraduate Advising, Residential Academic Programs, Domestic Exchange Programs, Five College Interchange