Foundational Year - One Programs

All seven colleges and the Munk School of Global Affairs in the Faculty of Arts & Science offer distinctive first-year programs to help with the transition to university. These programs provide a structured transition from high school to university with a focus on developing critical thinking, speaking and writing skills and an atmosphere that allows students to develop close relationships with fellow classmates and instructors.

Foundational Year Programs typically combine one or more theme-based courses with co-curricular events (e.g. guest lectures) and experiential learning opportunities. All first-year, full-time students in the Faculty of Arts & Science, regardless of college affiliation, are eligible for admission to these programs.

First Year Seminars

• First Year Seminars give undergraduate students in the Faculty of Arts & Science an opportunity to work closely with an instructor in a class of no more than 24 students
• Issues, questions or controversies of particular interest to the instructor are discussed
• Students are encouraged to develop their ability to think analytically and to express ideas and logical arguments through class discussions and in their writing

First Year Learning Communities (FLCs)

• First Year Learning Communities (FLCs or "flicks") are small groups of first-year students who have several classes in common
• FLCs are offered in seven areas of study:  Actuarial Science, Computer Science, Economics, International Relations, Life Sciences, Philosophy and Rotman Commerce
• The goal of FLCs is to help newly admitted students meet classmates in their area of study, develop friendships and form study groups, while developing academic and personal skills
• Program enrolment is limited and all FLC groups are capped at 24-30 students