Program Overview

First-Year Programs

The Division of Undergraduate Education and Student Success offers various first-year programs to support students in their transition to university life.

First-Year Interest Groups

First-Year Interest Groups (FIGs) are designed to introduce students to fundamental concepts and techniques in a specific field. The Environmental Design FIG, for example, focuses on landscape architecture and explores the complex relationships between human cultures and their environments.

Courses in the FIG

The Environmental Design FIG includes the following courses:

• UGST 109 FIG Seminar: This 1-credit course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and techniques of landscape architecture. Students participate in discussions, workshops, site visits, and guest lectures to understand the profession.
• LA 260 Understanding Landscapes: This 4-credit course presents a richly illustrated overview of the relationships between human cultures and their vernacular and designed landscapes. Students study a broad range of gardens, parks, memorials, and civic landscapes.
• LA 326 Plants: Fall: This 4-credit course focuses on the characteristics, identification, and design uses of deciduous trees, shrubs, vines, and ground covers. Emphasis is placed on identification and appropriate use in landscape design.

Academic Team

The Environmental Design FIG is led by:

• Ellee Stapleton, FIG Seminar Instructor
• Annika, FIG Assistant

Undergraduate Education and Student Success

The Division of Undergraduate Education and Student Success offers various resources to support student success, including:

• Accessible Education
• Advising
• First Year and Transition Student Experience
• Academic Success
• Undergraduate Research and Distinguished Scholarships
• Student Success Initiatives