The University College is now accepting First-Year Seminar proposals for Fall 2026. First-Year Seminar instructors are highly engaged in student development and have an active, important role in their students' transition to college. As a result, First-Year Seminars introduce new, first year students to important principles and academic expectations that will help them be successful at the University of Iowa. In addition, First-Year Seminars provide students with an opportunity to work closely with UI faculty, instructional staff, or a senior-level administrator.
Unlike college transition courses, which are designed to help students develop specific skills necessary for success in college (time management, study skills, goal setting, etc.), First-Year Seminars focus on exploring a single, specific academic topic, allowing for in-depth analysis and critical thinking around that subject matter.
First-Year Seminars are designed around one or more of the four pillars of a First-Year Seminar:
- Academic Inquiry
- Active Learning
- Community and Connectedness
- Exploration of Identity.
Explanations of these pillars, which offer structure and guidance for course design, can be found on the 4 Pillars of a First-Year Seminar webpage. Additional course design, instructional resources, and policy information is available on the First-Year Seminar website.
Even if you have taught a First-Year Seminar in the past, you must submit a proposal to be considered for the Fall 2026 semester. The number of First-Year Seminar proposals that will be approved is dependent on funding and incoming class size. Seminars that do not meet enrollment criteria may be canceled.
Please visit First-Year Seminar Proposals for full instructions on how to submit your Fall 2026 First-Year Seminar proposal. Proposals must be submitted and through workflow (all required signatures complete) by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 30th.
Thank you in advance for your interest in teaching a First-Year Seminar. If you have any questions, please contact Andrew Beckett, Associate Dean of University College or Angie Lamb, Associate Director of Pathways to Excellence.