University of North Carolina at Greensboro Top Questions

What are the academics like at your school?

Danielle

The academics at my school are great! The professors will know your name in most classes, unless it's one such as a freshman seminar with many other students. Although, I think it would be hard for anyone to remember that many names. I just try to introduce myself to the professor in every class and then they remember me. My favorite class was my acting class with a graduate student as the professor. The class was classed fundamentals of acting and it was so fun because the professor was young herself so she could more easily relate to how the students were. My least favorite class was my online western civilization course just because I'm not very good with history but I actually did well in the class. There are always people in the library at UNCG, especially during finals. I was able to study enough for my classes and have a personal and social life as well. In most classes, everyone participates and it's very easy to make new friends in every single new class. Most of my professors have tried to incorporate some form of interaction between classmates throughout the course so it's not as awkward for anyone to participate in class. Wherever you're walking on campus, you will almost always here someone discussing a class or just having intellectual conversations. In my opinion, the students at UNCG are not competitive intellectually wise, that tends to be more in the athletic sports area, just like any other school. The most unique class I have taken was called Belief In Weird Things, and it definitely wasn't what you expect it to be. I don't want to spoil it for any of you that might take it, but you learn about a vast variety of things that many people around you might just belief in and you wouldn't think second twice about it being 'weird' until you take this course! Overall, I think the school's academic requirements seem realistic and standard for todays generation. What I do like is even though there may be some requirements you are not interested in, you will be able to find a course that can fit but you won't hate from the large majority of courses offered. I think the education at the school is geared toward both learning for its own sake and getting a job. Some of the education is just things to learn, but most of it seems to gear more towards helping the students be successful in whatever job they desire.

Joshua

Most professors don't know my name, and I don't expect them to considering how many students are in each pf there classes. I do have smaller classes with graduate students teaching, and generally they all know my names. My favorite classes are my activity courses, such as volleyball. My least favorite class is my most difficult class, which is Physiology. Students generally don't study that much, but there are a small percentage that are continuously studying. It depends if participation counts as part of the grade. Participation usually doesn't count, and generally a lot of students skip class. All students are nice to one another, but some students study hard because their field is so competitive. History and Philosophy of Sport, because we are constantly working in groups, and we learn more about how sports worked in the past as opposed to just boring facts. I am majoring in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Medicine. Sports medicine is very competitive at UNCG, and it is by far the largest concentration in the Kinesiology field. I don't recall ever spending time with professors outside of class. The schools academic requirements are far too easy for any student, but students still somehow manage to fall under these requirements. I feel like it depends on the major. For example, if I was an art major then it would be learning for the sake of it. But in my major, I feel like the Kinesiology program makes it vital to teach you how to get a job once you graduate.

Markisha

My Professors knew my name because I let it be known. Moreover, many of them really try hard to remember your name and many of them accomplish that task. You may have those classes where its just a lecture and those are the classes you have to be more interactive with the professor. My favorite class so far has be Sociology: Deviant Behavior. I guess it was because I had the best teacher ever! I don't have a least favorite class I can honestly say, even the classes I thought I would hate and die of bored actually had a good outcome. Class participation is crucial! If you don't participate and state your opinions and questions I don't see how you will make it through that class. Oh yeah, did I tell you it can be up to 20{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your grade! My major is Elementary Education a great department that I advise you to take a look at. There are great programs you can be involved in such as Teach Fellows, Teachers Academy, and/or clubs for Future Teachers. The academic requirements are just right. They are not requiring you to take too many classes that are outside of your major which is great. The education at this school is for your own sake of learning and not only to get a job, but to build a career that you will be happy and over achieve to your highest ability.

Adrian

Without misleading you about the overall picture, I can only speak confidently on the Computer Science department for this question. The department is rather small with about 10 or so faculty overall. They all know your name at some point, though it's rare they ever truly get to know you. My favorite class was software development (real-world application) with my least favorite class being Theory of Automata (abstract nightmare). Students study around 5-10 hours a week for their entire course load. It's not frustratingly difficult, but there's a lot of theory/programming involved and that makes practice to master the concepts. Fortunately, professors are willing to assist you if you can put forth a good effort. This is not a competitive atmosphere for the most part. There really isn't a focus placed on Class rank; rather it's making sure you understand the base-concepts for later classes. There are intellectual conversations to be had, but it's not like we're endlessly debating in the hallways. There is a lot of camaraderie in the department because of it's size. Everyone knows you somewhat and friends aren't hard to make here. Learning is usually a purely academic endeavor. Practical applications are sometimes hard to come-by given the abstract material, and the department could benefit from an internship placement program or a technical job-fair. I feel like the job-market is sometimes considered an afterthought, but this is certainly surmountable.

Marina

Academics are great here at UNCG! Most smaller classes. like ones within your major are ones that have teachers that are easy to get to know and easier to build relationships with! Teachers are always willing to help students out as much as they can (you rarely meet a teacher here that won't). Whether it is a scheduled office meeting or just meeting outside of class, the majority of the teachers here are awesome. I am a communications major and my personal experience has been great! My teachers like for us to get to know them on a first name basis making the connection with them comfortable for us. Because of this, it has made it easier for me to contact them for anything I may need,

Daniel

As I said before our professors are some the best not only in the State but country; they are very personal as well as professional. About every professor I've had during my college career at UNCG has had my best interest in mind. The professors take the time to slow down and make sure you understand the material they are covering. The classes I've enjoyed the most have come in my major of Graphic Design. Where great computer skills and artistic creativity are required. I love that the professors push us to be the most creative people in the industry, this really does prepare us as students to be competitive in our industries when we graduate. My business minor has provided me with invaluable information for day to day living as well as building my own business! I believe UNCG does a great job of preparing you for the work force through its academic requirements!

Nicole

Academics range based on the instructor. Generally speaking, most classes are very large, especially in my major. The science building consists of many large lecture halls. Professors generally do not know your name, but most will give you the opportunity to spend time with them outside of class during office hours or to assist with assignments. If you take the time to get to know your professors, they will know your name, and they will remember you. This makes for a great future letter of recommendation, so I do recommend spending time with instructors outside of class, especially in the larger classrooms. My major is Biochemistry and in general I study 4-5 days a week, and sometimes every day of the week, when a test is coming up. This just means that I spend a little bit of time everyday focusing on certain topics. I try not to procrastinate because in the event that you do wait until the last minute to study, it is difficult to absorb all of the material that will be covered on the exam. Most of my classes are academically reasonable, I've never felt like I was given more work than I could handle at a given time. Of course, there are stressful weeks, but if you manage your time well, it is fairly easy to make the academics work. The education at the school is definitely more geared toward your future career. While you learn a lot, it's evident by the number of postings for internships, research, jobs, and graduate studies, that they want you to take your education and use it to better yourself in order to accomplish your dreams, regardless of what they may be!

Mauni

I have noticed that teachers tend to know your name if you participate during class. From my experience the instructors really appreciate communication with students because it helps them know what the class is grasping, and still needs help with. Some students are competitive, especially if you are in a competitive major, or applying for an internship. The professors seam to gear students towards figuring out the best career for them, as well as helping the students become aware of what is required of them.

Mat

I am am seeking a B.S. in biology along with minors in chemistry and American sign language. My favorite classes so far have all been within my degree, microbiology, genetics, immunology, and all of my ASL classes have been great! Essentially all of my professors know me by name, but I do make extra effort to go by their office and talk with them so they know me, and when final grade time comes, that can be very helpful! There have been several times when I have seen certain professors outside of school, either just having a nice conversation or having a beer to celebrate the end of a semester. My experiences have shown me that the school is really geared towards getting you a job, they have a great career services center.

David

Academics are what you make it. Personally, I am a media studies major and I spend a small amount of time studying for my classes because I feel like I have a pretty good grasp on my subject. The other majors are far more demanding with classes like chemistry so it really depends on what you're doing. The professors know everyones names as long as it isn't a class with over 100 people. Advisors at the university are very helpful as long as you make an appointment to hash everything out. If you are unlucky and decide to do a group advising session you'll be severely disappointed.

Briana

The best part about UNCG is being apart of the Spartan Familiy. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and you will see early that everyone in this positive surrounding wants you to succeed. UNCG provides various programs and resources to make sure your experience is filled with all help necessary to guide you to a successful career. The closed campus is big enough for a student to take in the entire "college experience," but small enough to feel secure. The campus is set in a professional and educational setting, which provides opportunity for students to find a comfortable study space anywhere on campus and stay focused on their studies. Class sizes provide a great student to professor ratio, where there is a chance to work closely with falculty to get that one-on-one experience for students that need help with class content. Also UNCG gives options to Living Learning Communities, where students are able to live in on campus dorms with other students in similar majors to build connections and study groups for students success. I myself have particpate in a LLC program, which I found very helpful as it helped me make friends and share first year experiences with other students who share similar experiences.. I would highly recommend that option for incoming or first year students at UNCG. Overall, I feel that UNCG provides me with a great stable learning enviorment that enables to want to strive for greatness and push everyday toward success.

Erin

Some of the classes are really hard such as the sciences but I really enjoy them so I study hard and usually obtain the grades I want. My least favorite class here was sociology but I managed to struggle through it.

Ndikumo

At UNCG, professors care about your education. They truly want you to do before. Yes some basic requirement courses might have over 100 student, but professor will encourage you seek them out if you need extra help and take time for questions to explain something you do not understand. Then after you get into your major courses, you practically have a one on one relationship with the professor. In class, your professor will call you by name and ask you what can be done before in order to succeed in the course. Course work is average and as long as you stay on top of your assignment and get them done early and also see the professor before it is too late, there is no question that you will pass with flying colors. I am graduating in May 2012 and I made sure i did my work on time and ask question when i was stuck. emailing my professor was my secret, they truly respond to your email with more than you ask for.

Crystal

The professors are all extremely knowledgeable and well informed in their specific fields. They are very eager to assist students within and outside of the classroom. The classroom sizes are perfect for someone like myself. It's about a 17:1 student teacher ratio. Which allows the professors to build relationships with students. As well it allows for great class discussions. Many departments offer excellent educational opportunities such as seminars and internships.I have been very pleased with my educational experiences thus far.

Keylin

The majority of classes are medium sized, but there are big lectures for some subjects (ex:biology). My favorite class would have to be my English 105, I had such an amazing professor! Yes, a lot of students are aware of what's going on in the news, very intellectual conversations occur outside of class. The professors are so willing to help you succeed that they will meet during anytime that works with your schedule.

Benoit

Academics are really great, because we have a wonderful professor to student ratio, and I made great relationships with all my professors. They know me by name, and they really do care about how you do in their classroom. Of course, like at every school you will fall on a professor who is not as great, but I also learn form those professors, because it helps me discover my learning style. I am a theatre department, and I think that it is very inclusive, and it really is preparing me for a career in theatre later in life.

Jesse

I felt as though i had a rigorous education. To do well at UNCG and in life you have to try, don't come here if you want to float on by. . . I feel like it repaired me for the real world, and i feel like most of the people in most of my classes took school pretty seriously.

Cody

Surprisingly satisfying. Music, Education, and Nursing majors should go here. If that's what you want go for it. I had a lot of AP credit. They aren't out to take all your money like other schools so they let me use all of it. They aren't trying to bleed me dry so i can get out quick. I'm an English major. We have a solid MFA department for creative writing and professors are smart and great. I've been very satisfied. I'm also in the honors college which offers honors classes that are incredibly interesting.

Brittany

Professors definetly know your name. Favorite class would definetly be communications and i absolutely hate giving speeches! Least favorite would have to be developmental psychology. Class participation is pretty much required in the smaller classes but it helps in the long run if there is a comprehensive exam. You do have to study but it will help when it comes to the exams, it helped me. The education at UNCG is definetly geared toward getting a job for example they require education majors to have a minor so we are more qualified when we go to look for a job. The most interesting class I took here would have to be non-western religions. It was really interesting to learn about new cultures.

Parker

There are some extremely large classes. Basic lectures (Bio 101, Math 122) can have upwards of 100 students. But once I got into my major, my classes were small and intimate. Discussion amongst students is always highly encouraged. My professors have all gotten to know each of us very well and they learn our strengths and our weaknesses quickly. My professors were also always open to meeting with me outside of class.

Dylan

Good school. The nursing program is great.

Melissa

I personally am in Nursing School here and when I tell people I go to UNCG and am in the nursing program peope congratulate me. If you are looking for a great nursing program where people are going to respect you for your major and you want to be able to find a job right out of school UNCG is the place. The hospitals around here love UNCG graduates. The Nursing program is very challeging. To get in you need atleast a 3.3 GPA, this year the lowest GPA they accepted into the program was a 3.5, and it doesn't get any easier once you get in. I can't speak for any other major but the nursing school is very competitive and students in it probably study the most out of any major. The classes that you have to take outside your major are not hard. You can choose classes that are not challenging that usually are not as demanding as the classes for your major. A lot of the professors here are very nice and understanding, it isn't uncommon for teachers to go out with students after class.

Amanda

Most of my professors know my name at UNCG, and professors do not mind meeting with you outside class. Most of the classes I have taken at UNCG have been intellectually stimulating and fun. I have the feeling that my teachers want me to succeed.

Hunter

The average class size is about 35 students for every professor. My favorite course so far has been International Economics(ECO 300)--very practical course with enlightening ideas and concepts regarding the global economy. Students don´t seem to be very competitive, but rather just to get by.Personally, the Bryan school of business is quite rigorous and requires a great deal out of their students. I enjoy the challenge and fairness of the program.The education at the business school is geared towards getting a job because money drives the world.

Heather

at exam time, students study their asses off, but no one really follows the 23-hour quiet rules during the time. most of the students are slacker-ish in general education requirements, but into the higher course numbers, the more competitive the students.

Shannon

The professors at UNCG are great! I havent had any "bad" teachers yet, and I have been here 3 years already... I took Accounting last semester with low expectations, but the teacher was so enthusiastic, that I actually enjoyed the class a lot. Smaller classes have a lot of participation opportunities, but bigger ones have some as well. A lot of freshmen transfer/go on academic probation but its bc they are too excited for college! You do have to study, but you are going to get an education, so that makes sense. I dont study very often, I do spend time on papers or projects that are due soon. My major is called Consumer, Retail, and Apparel studies. (the CARS dept.) They recently updated the study to include concentrations in retailing and consumer studies, apparel product design, and for the coming years outsourcing (as a major!). The programs in this department are really good...the education includes a required summer internship class, and that really helps you get real life experience...Plus it will help you get a job when you graduate as well.

Andrew

Professors are pretty good. My favoorite professor expected alot out of his students but was also very helpful and knew whne students worked hard even if their grades did not reflect. Worst professor was in the Spanish dept. I do not want to take a language but have to to graduate. She taught a class knowing everyone in there was just trying to pass but insisted on making the class harder than it needed to be. I studied twice as much for that class than for my major classes combined. and still did not get a decent grade. Academic requirements there are too many depending on your major.

Amber

All of my professors have been very helpful, no matter the academic level of the class. I have had classes from 20 people to 200 people and you still get the same amount of learning. It's really easy to participate because you don't get judged and it's easy to really be yourself, considering the different types of people in each class. Each professor is more than willing to have one on one time with you and answer emails extremely promptly. As a psychology major, I often put learning material with everyday life. Even early in my major, I am able to match people with their social learnings.

Ainsley

Professors are kind and caring for the most part. I have had my share of sucky ones, and I'm sure I will have more in the future.

Ryan

I feel that academics at UNCG are a little bit more challenging than some other colleges, especially the NURSING program!!!

Hillary

Most of the general ed classes are large, they can get to over 100 students, but once you get into classes for your major the size gets smaller. Most of my professors in my major know my name. My favorite class so far is called selected physical activity II core, that in normal terms is bowling/golf. We learn the fundamentals in the classroom, then go to the bowling lanes and the golf course. My least favorite class was philosophy because it was hard and philosophy is not really my thing. What major you are in depends how competitive it is. I know the nursing major is very competitive.

emily

many of my professors know my name. my most favorite classes are my nutrition classes, but i hate my math class. i dont think students are really competitive, but intelligent conversations do take place outside of class. i wish the school was a bit more lenient about transferring credits to and from other schools.

Josh

Many classes do take attendance but its usually in the smaller classes where its good to know the teacher because its probably in your major. These professors usually know your name as well as knowing a little bit about you outside of just the class. Class participation is high because you have many classes with the same people within your major so it makes it a lot more interesting to communicate and work together.

Court

yes prfessors know my name, my favorite class is my marketing class because its my major, least favorite is spanish, students that make good grades study enough, students that think the grades are just going to come...never study. the most unique class is communication ethics. my major department is really friendly and have a good system of outside help and i use it sometimes. i dont like that we have so many general ed requirements, i just need a college degree from anywhere...i dont think going to uncg is going to make a difference.

Billi

Professors know my name only because i introduce myself the first day of class. My favorite class was UNS not only because it was one of the easier classes but because it gave me a chance to become more familiar with the campus and was very helpful in learning a lot about myself. In smaller classes participation is common but in a lecture class, very seldom are there students willing to participate. I do keep in contact with my professors outside of class to show that im focused on earning a good grade in the class. I also go to them for help, whether it be for a paper or be it preparation for a test.

Terry

The professors do know my name. My favorite class would definately be my English class. I hate English but the teacher grades you on how much you improve over the semester instead of grading you on a rubric of right and wrong. This really helps me improve and keeps my spirits high.

Tim

im getting a very god education

Rachel

I have really enjoyed my major classes at UNCG, but most of my classmates are just dumb. I feel like most people go to UNCG because they didn't get in to Chapel Hill, and rightfully so. Even the Honors classes at UNCG are not challenging. I would strongly recommend the Hospitality Management major to anyone, but be prepared to deal with some very dumb people. The Dance major is not for everyone, do your research before choosing it and be prepared for dance majors who have never taken a dance class in their lives.