I am currently a sophomore in high school thinking about going to the University of Minnesota for college. I looked at the freshman admissions requirements and I already have or will soon have most of the required courses (4 years math, 2 years foreign language, etc.). However, I noticed that one year of visual or performing arts is required. I currently have half a semester of graphic design, but since the website says one year, I would need another semester. I’m wondering if this is a hard requirement or just a recommendation, as I would prefer not to take any more arts classes. I still have two more years of high school, so it’s not a big deal if I have to, but if possible I would like to be done.
I was also in band for all three years of middle school, which I’m guessing doesn’t count, but I just want to make sure that it doesn’t.
@ExplodingCamel it’s not a hard requirement. My school requires 1 semester of an Art course but UMN recommends a full year. I talked to my counselor at my school as well as UMN and they aren’t that harsh on it. I had fulfilled all other requirements just like you and more in math and science so they will look more critically at that than an arts course. However, when you do start applying I would contact them and let them know your situation. They will recommend what to do.
Side note, other colleges aren’t as light on it as UMN was for me. Some colleges stand firm on a full year so take a look and see what other colleges require and plan your classes accordingly if UMN isn’t your first choice.