Frequently Asked Questions

How can a learning community help me succeed in college?

A learning community will engage you in the intellectual life of Stony Brook; help you set goals and recognize what is needed to attain those goals; provide opportunities for you to forge deeper social and intellectual connections in your learning, with other students, and with faculty; and give you opportunities to involve yourself in the design and support of these programs. You will learn to think critically and learn how to synthesize material from different courses and utilize the resources of a major research university. You will experience personal growth and achieve a greater appreciation for diversity as you interact closely with other students and learn from them. Meeting others, studying in groups, interacting with faculty, being active in class, and developing skills as well as knowledge are keys to success in college. A learning community helps you do all of these things.

Do I need a Learning Community in order to take first-year courses?

Students may come to Stony Brook and take courses individually. However, a learning community gives more coherence and insight to the course of study and offers you the opportunity to develop intellectual and social interactions with other students and faculty quickly.

Do Learning Communities work?

Research shows that students who learn in this kind of environment feel better about the school, about what they are learning, about themselves, usually have higher GPA's, and are more persistent in achieving their goals.

What Learning Communities are available at Stony Brook?

The Communities in Science are designed for students who take biology, chemistry, and mathematics in their first year. The Community of Ideas , which includes some of the more popular courses, allows students to sample a variety of disciplines while preparing for most majors in the humanities and social sciences. This community is especially suited for students who are interested in the humanities and social sciences or are undecided about a major field of study. The Community of Ideas also includes clusters designed specifically for business majors and for those students interested in information technology.

Who can join a Learning Community?

Learning communities are available for first-year students who need courses to meet general education, major, and professional requirements.

How can I join a Learning Community?

For the Fall semester, incoming freshmen should indicate their interest in the program by checking Yes, I would like to be considered for the Freshman Learning Communities on the New Student Preferences Form (available online through the Solar System). For the Spring semester, contact the Learning Communities Program office during the course registration period.