During FSSP, you’ll enroll in 7–13 units, take advantage of smaller class sizes, and receive priority access to in-demand courses. You can choose from academic classes, seminars created specifically for first-year students, undergraduate research courses, honors sections, and enrichment offerings.
Curating your FSSP Schedule
As a Freshman Summer Start Program participant, you will benefit from a focused curriculum consisting of a Core Course, INT 95A and Academic Course(s). This combination is designed to help you build foundational skills that will support your transition to UC Santa Barbara and give you a head start on your academics.
You'll also have the opportunity to take advantage of innovative Special Seminars & Course(s) designed to foster critical thinking, ignite your curiosity, and introduce you to new disciplines! Expand the categories below to learn more about opportunities for FSSP students.
FSSP Curriculum
7-13 units total
The Modern Research University (2 units)
Discover what it means to study at a leading research university. Through discussions with faculty and peers, you’ll explore extracurricular opportunities, learn to navigate campus expectations and resources, and develop a personalized plan for your first year at UC Santa Barbara. (Required)
Explore a curated list of more than 60 lower-division courses, and choose ones that will support your academic journey. Take courses that satisfy general education or major requirements, or dive into a new area of interest!
These small group seminars, with a maximum of twenty students, are taught by faculty specifically interested in working with freshmen Facilitating student-faculty contact is one of the major goals of the Students may register in up to two First Year Discovery Seminars during FSSP, for 1-2 units of credit.
INT W 25 Bridge to STEM (4 units)
Bridge to STEM helps incoming students build quantitative and navigational skills necessary for success in science, math, technology, engineering, economics, and other quantitative disciplines through a supportive learning community.
Course Registration Process for Admitted Students:
Upon enrollment in FSSP, you’ll review advising resources and choose course preferences from a curated list of lower-division courses, listed below. Review each step below to learn more about the FSSP Curriculum and complete the course registration process.
Consult FSSP course advising resources prior to selecting your FSSP course preferences.
Choose six preferences from the list of FSSP course offerings. Determine the number of units that align with your summer goals (between 7 and 13 units). The average FSSP student takes 10-12 units.
Fill out your FSSP Course Preference form. Our dedicated advising team will craft schedules on a first-come, first-served basis based on your preferences and course availability. Monitor your UCSB email for questions and updates from our advising team.
FSSP Course Offerings
Review our course offerings available to first-year students in our FSSP Schedule of Classes below