Are FIGS available to all first-year students?
Currently, only students enrolling in the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, and the Rutgers Business School are able to enroll in a FIGS.
How many students are in a FIGS?
Each FIGS has no more than twenty-five first-year students. The small class size means that our courses are a great way to get to know fellow students and your FIGS Peer Instructor.
I’m not sure what I want to major in. How should I select my FIGS topic?
FIGS are a great opportunity to learn more about an area that interests you and explore related majors, minors, and career paths. Ultimately, you should care about the content of the class so select a topic that you’d like to learn more about.
What should I expect each week in my FIGS?
Your weekly FIGS class will be planned and facilitated by your Peer Instructor. FIGS are seminar courses, which means they are based on participation. You will receive the most benefit from this class if you come each week and take advantage of learning from your Peer Instructor and fellow students. All FIGS students will have the opportunity to hear from a peer panel, meet a faculty member, explore the various aspects of your interest area, and learn about the many services and resources available at Rutgers. You will have some short homework assignments and projects, but they are all designed to complement your learning, not provide you with busywork.
How do I register for a FIGS?
When you attend an advising day, talk to your academic advisor about taking a FIGS and indicate your choices on the appropriate course registration form. You can select only one FIGS course. Visit WebReg to register for FIGS courses (course number 01:090:120). To see the list of available FIGS, visit the Schedule of Classes. Don’t delay. FIGS fill quickly.
Will I get my first FIGS choice?
We will make every attempt to place you in your first choice; however, your schedule may require that we place you in one of your other choices. If you do not see your first choice on your schedule, you can try to sign up for an open FIGS during the Drop/Add period.
Can I add a FIGS if I do not receive it on my fall schedule?
First-year students can add a FIGS during the Drop/Add period at the beginning of the fall semester. Visit WebReg to register for FIGS courses (course number 01:090:120). To see the list of available FIGS, visit the Schedule of Classes. Don’t delay. FIGS fill quickly.
Can I take a FIGS and a Byrne Seminar?
Yes. If you are interested in both FIGS and Byrne Seminars, you should note this on your course request form when selecting your fall classes. FIGS are only offered during the fall. Byrne Seminars are offered in both fall and spring semesters.
How am I graded in FIGS?
FIGS are one-credit courses graded Pass/No Credit. There will be some homework to complete, but you will spend much of your time in this course exploring your interest area, discussing hot topics, and learning about the many resources available to you at Rutgers.
Does participation in FIGS impact my grade point average?
No. FIGS are graded Pass/No Credit, which means you do not receive a letter grade. Therefore, the grade that you receive is not factored into your grade point average.
Does the credit count towards graduation?
Yes, all students who successfully participate in FIGS will receive one credit, which counts towards graduation. If you do not come to class and fail to complete the minimum assignments, you may receive no credit in the course. FIGS do not satisfy specific core curriculum requirements.
Can I drop my FIGS?
The FIGS program follows the university-wide deadlines to withdraw. Students participating in a FIGS connected to their learning community should consult with the program director on the implications of dropping their FIGS course.