Elective Courses
In the spring semester of your first-year, all engineering students, regardless of major, will be required to enroll in a science elective (unless they come bearing AP credit in these specific subjects). The courses from which you may choose to enroll include: Chemistry 152 (a followup to the required first semester), Biology 202 (a premed "weed-out" class which is a heavy load of memorization...beware!), or Materials Science 209 (a class engineer's choice, and pretty useful info).
These electives are included in the schedule to ensure that students receive a balanced education while they are at the University. There is a list of courses which you'll want to pick up in the Thornton Hall engineering front office which are considered official "general education electives". One thing to keep in mind when choosing these electives is that you will be required to take two courses which make up a series. Some AP credit may fulfill this requirement for you. Don't wait until the last two semesters you are here to take the series as it could cause you serious scheduling problems.
This is exactly what it sounds like. You may take any course at the University of Virginia, either in the engineering school or bravely venturing outside of it and have it count toward your major. You will probably only be allowed one in four years, so do not make your choice frivolously! Again, don't forget to consult the Echols Scholars Course Review for suggestions of courses in every department of the College.
As you get further into your major in the Engineering School, you will need to take technical electives. These electives are 300 level or higher courses of your choosing in the engineering school. They should be chosen carefully (this seems to be broken record advise) because you don't want to over-extend yourself or waste your time learning information that you won't need.
Back To Future Students Page