Academics for the International Student

The Liberal Arts Model

Principia is a liberal arts college, which means that besides your main area of study (called “major”), you will also be encouraged to study subjects from a wide range of fields. 

Classes are small and often involve discussion, with everyone expected to ask questions and share ideas. Students also work on projects in small groups and make presentations. There will be lots of writing, quantitative reasoning, information literacy, and critical thinking. These skills can be helpful in any job and prepare students to contribute to society in many different ways.  

The Principia Difference

The academics at Principia are challenging, but faculty recognize that you have God-given abilities, and they provide encouragement and support. And they’re always happy to talk — about assignments or life.

Principia does not teach Christian Science — it is an academic institution where everyone strives to be a good neighbor by exploring and expressing the values of Jesus and the Christian Science religion. See more about Spiritual Life on Campus

Students who have completed even one year at Principia often report that they gained a stronger foundation in Christian Science by living and practicing it within a community of Christian Scientists. Others have shared how much employers in their home countries value the skills and breadth of experience they gained by studying and living in the United States.

Majors and Minors

Principia offers bachelor’s degrees in 25 majors, or areas of study, ranging from biology to theatre. You don’t have to choose a major until the end of your freshman (first) year.  You may also take courses that interest you even if they don’t fulfill specific requirements. Principia College students graduate with either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Sciences (BS) degree.

You are free to choose your courses based on your interests and your readiness to complete the required courses.  Learn about the 25 majors, or areas of study, or to go super in-depth, check out the details in the College Catalog.

Choose from 3 programs

Four-year program – Bachelor’s Degree for first-time university students. More than 20 subject areas are offered for study.

Transfer program – Students who have already completed a year or more at another university can switch to Principia to complete their Bachelor’s Degree.

One-year enrichment program – For students seeking a gap year before university, or for university graduates who are interested in experiencing Principia. Enrichment students get a transcript but do not earn a bachelor’s degree.

Note: Principia does not offer master's or other graduate degrees, nor does our curriculum include remedial academic courses. You can learn more about our three programs by downloading our International Admissions Guide or asking us.

Freshman Year Experience

Each FYE program is designed to help new students prepare for the next 3 and a half years of studies at Principia.  Friendly professors will help you develop skills essential for success in a liberal arts curriculum, including writing, analytical reading, information literacy, and critical thinking. 

Academic Advising

You’ll meet with an Academic Advisor soon after you arrive on campus to get help choosing classes.  They can help you understand what classes you need to take to graduate, and which courses you might take for fun.  If you’re not sure which major you want, they can help you find classes to explore which will also count towards the General Education requirements you’ll need to complete in order to graduate.  

Career Support and Internships

You can prepare for the working world by completing internships to get work experience before you graduate from university.  The Internships and Career Development Office would be happy to assist you in exploring your career options.