UC Davis First-Year Seminar Program

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Learn about the wide range of First-Year Seminars open to students!

First-Year Seminars are small, dynamic classes that bring to life the passions and expertise of your professors on timely, thought-provoking subjects. Each seminar is limited to just 19 students, ensuring a rich, interactive environment where intellectual exchange, critical thinking and a sense of community thrive! Studies show students who enroll in a First-Year Seminar are more likely to succeed – not only through on-time graduation, but higher levels of engagement with faculty and classmates, as well as an improved sense of belonging.

New sessions offered each quarter allows you to experience these one-of-a-kind courses, exclusively available to first-year and new transfer students! Remaining spaces will be offered to continuing students — so don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn, explore and connect.

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Latest News

UC Davis instructors teach First-Year Seminars to inspire future leaders

by Franchescha Christe
June 05, 2026

Education

Each year, about 5,000 undergraduates — roughly 16% of UC Davis undergraduates — enroll in First-Year Seminars. As student interest continues to grow, the program needs more faculty to teach these courses.

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First-Year Seminars FAQ for students

First-Generation seminars

Teach a seminar

Every year, First-Year Seminars offers over 200 seminars taught by creative instructors who are asking questions about the world that are dear to their hearts. You can teach one too.

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Seminar Schedule

Seminar Title	CRN	Course	Instructor	Time	Grading/Units	Restrictions	Term	Open/Waitlist

First-Year Seminars

UC Davis instructors teach First-Year Seminars to inspire future leaders

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