academics and study abroad

AND STUDY ABROAD academics

What is the average class size and the student-to-teacher ratio? Sacred Heart’s commitment to personal attention is evident with an average class size of 22 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.

Are all courses taught by professors or are some courses taught by teaching assistants? Sacred Heart University does not utilize teaching assistants to teach courses.

Are there academic support services available outside the classroom? Located in the Sheila Hamilton Student Success Center, the Jandrisevits Learning Center (JLC) offers a variety of support services to all SHU students as well as special services for students with disabilities. Staffed by highly experienced faculty, staff and peer tutors in disciplines across the curriculum, the JLC provides a friendly learning environment where the individual needs of students are of primary concern. Classroom Learning Assistants (CLAs), individualized tutors and monthly workshops around essential academic skills such as reading, listening, notetaking, test-taking, public speaking and time management are offered to the SHU community.

How does academic advising work for freshmen? Students work with an academic advisor in the SHU College in which they are interested in studying. Advisors guide students on curriculum planning and other academic issues. Advisors are committed to assisting each student with all aspects of their transition to college while remaining an essential resource for academicrelated matters.

When do students declare their major? Are double majors allowed? Students may indicate an intended major upon enrollment or indicate they are undecided on a major within a particular SHU college. Students are connected to faculty and peers in their major and college of interest and may complete the official declaration process during the spring semester of their freshman year or during their sophomore year. You may choose to double-major at SHU and will be guided through the process by your academic advisor.

What if I am undecided about my major? The Center for Career and Professional Development offers the Major in Success (MIS) program which assists students in making the right choices about majors and careers by identifying how their unique talents, interests, values and skills match with a variety of careers and corresponding academic programs. Individual and groups career coaching is also available as part of the program.

Does SHU offer Study Abroad opportunities? SHU students study worldwide, and special opportunities for freshmen include a one-week pre-fall program at SHU’s campus in Dingle, County Kerry, Ireland and two-week programs in January and May. Study abroad options include over 60 programs in 30 countries across the globe in

semester, academic year and short term (one to six week) programs. SHU undergraduates also study at SHU’s campus in the European business center of Luxembourg and on study trips led by SHU professors to countries such as India, Germany, Italy, Spain, Bermuda, China and Korea. For more information visit studyabroad.sacredheart.edu.

Are there opportunities to participate in research projects with faculty as an undergraduate? Promoting undergraduate research is an integral part of Sacred Heart University’s strategic plan, and students conduct research in programs across the University. Students often receive research stipends, including support for attending and presenting research at professional conferences.

Does SHU offer options for combined undergraduate/graduate degrees? Sacred Heart University offers qualified undergraduates the opportunity to complete an undergraduate degree and a graduate degree within 5 to 6 years, depending on the degree program. Options are available in all SHU colleges, and programs vary in length and in timing of the application process. SHU also offers two programs in conjunction with partner institutions: the 3+3 Bachelor’s and J.D. Program with Seton Hall Law School and the 3+3 Bachelor’s and Pharm.D. (Doctor of Pharmacy) Program with Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy.

Does SHU have a laptop program? Among the first universities in the nation to offer a wireless campus, SHU continues its commitment to cutting-edge technology and a mobile computing philosophy. Students are required to purchase a suggested model laptop through one of SHU’s preferred vendors (a variety of models are available) and are able to access on-the-spot technical support via our Help Desk and Call Center.