Orientation Course for Credit

All new frosh and transfer students that start fall quarter are automatically enrolled in the required one-unit Orientation Course.

After students are automatically enrolled, they will see the course in their MyUCSC portal as: Introduction to University Life at UC Santa Cruz for frosh; Introduction to Research Universities and the Liberal Arts for transfers. Completing the Orientation Course is essential for preparing students for university success and first-quarter class enrollment.  

The course is graded on a Pass/No Pass system and only the students who Pass will receive one academic credit that will count towards graduation. To Pass the course and receive the credit, students need to fully complete the Orientation Course (including all quizzes, discussions, and assignments) by all the deadlines during the summer.

New students are automatically enrolled in the course, and participation is required. The class and the final grade will appear on students' official UC Santa Cruz transcript.

It is to the student’s benefit to complete each part of the orientation course by the deadlines and to be engaged during the summer: get the academic credit, get a passing grade, and receive the enrollment appointment date (to be able to enroll in fall quarter classes). Also, completing the orientation process and staying engaged during the summer will assist in having a strong start to the student's academic career.

*Students that do not complete the Orientation Course will not receive the academic credit and will receive a No Pass grade. The Orientation Course cannot be retaken.

Access the Course In Canvas

Each part of the orientation course becomes available on different dates throughout the summer. We recommend that you start each part as soon as you have access, and complete each part before the deadline. If you have trouble accessing any parts of the course or have any questions, email orientation@ucsc.edu.

Quick Links

Learn to use/navigate Canvas
Orientation To-Do Items
Orientation dates and deadlines
Admissions dates and deadlines