Student at University of Rochester
The Rochester Curriculum

The Rochester Curriculum gives most of our undergraduates flexibility to build their own program—studying what they love, without compromises.

  • No general education requirements

  • Only one required course

  • No traditional “core” curriculum

The Rochester Curriculum, explained

Learn how our flexible curriculum works for undergraduates in the School of Arts & Sciences and Hajim School of Engineering.

The three building blocks of the Rochester Curriculum

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1. Primary writing requirement

While there are no required subjects at Rochester, we do have a required skill: mastery of written communication. Choose from dozens of writing courses on a range of topics. Some recent examples:

  • Philosophy in science fiction
  • America's national parks
  • Comics and culture
Find out more
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2. Course requirements for the major

Majors fall in one of the three broad areas of learning:

  • Humanities
  • Social sciences
  • Natural sciences and engineering
How majors work
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3. Cluster in remaining two areas

Clusters are sets of three thematically related courses. Choose from hundreds of clusters or create your own. Some examples:

  • Politics and math
  • Sonic arts and technology
  • Power and inequality
Search clusters

The one required course: Writing 105

The Rochester Curriculum’s primary writing requirement teaches communication skills that benefit undergraduate students throughout college—and well beyond, too.

Your education, your way

Students celebrating academic success at the UNiversity of Rochester Commencement Ceremony.

The Rochester Curriculum is all about freedom. This level of flexibility lets students create their own unique academic experiences—whether it includes cross-discipline classes, conducting research, or studying abroad.

Students celebrating academic success at the UNiversity of Rochester Commencement Ceremony.

Our schools and programs

While the Rochester Curriculum is specifically for our undergraduates, all URochester students have opportunities to cross disciplines and craft an ever better education. Learn more about each of our unique schools and programs.

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