<p>Hi all, I wanted to ask about the core curriculum at uchicago. One of the adcoms or w/e came to our high school in the fall to talk to us about the school. I really identified with what she said so I want to learn more. Can someone describe some of the classes that are a part of the core curriculum. Like how big are the classes, grading, exd. I really love the idea of attending uchicago but because of my med school aspirations, I fear the grade deflation. Despite wanting to go to medical school I really like the philosophy of learning for the sake of learning. Anyways, I know my writing is a bit unorganized and my questions aren't eloquently crafted but I would appreciate anyone who could take the time to tell me about uchicago. Thanks</p>
<p>Daiviko- these subject areas are part of the core curriculum:</p>
<p>Humanities
Social Sciences
Civilization Studies
Art/Music/Drama
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Biological Sciences
Foreign Languages
Physical Education</p>
<p>Distributions of the specific areas vary based on which subject area you are in, and how you balance the rest of the Core; you’ll take between one and three quarters of courses in each area. Some AP tests and scores satisfy the Core; most do not, which I think is to a student’s advantage, because in my experience college core classes are much more rigorous (and interesting!) than an AP course.
Within these subject areas, courses vary widely; not everyone has to take the same humanities, social science, language, etc. course. Certain courses (Human Being and Citizen in Humanities, Self Culture and Society in Social Sciences, etc) are old-time staples of the Core, while offerings change yearly or are offered on a rotating basis. There are LOTS of different courses that fulfill the Core, and I encourage you to peruse timeschedules.uchicago.edu to see things that will be offered fall quarter of 2009 to get an idea of course options.
Core classes are capped at 20 students; some courses in the sciences have larger lectures, but your lab/discussion section will always have fewer than 20 students.
I really dislike the term “grade deflation”; yes, courses are hard, but there’s no reason to think that students who work hard enough for an A will get a B just out of pure professorial spite. Professors are very clear about their grading expectations, and if you work to that professor’s standard for an A, you will receive one. While high grades are said to be much more difficult to get at UChicago than at many other schools. and are certainly much more difficult to get than in high school, you will be well rewarded if you work hard.</p>