Course Guide for Reading: An Overview
At Princeton University, students have the unique opportunity to delve deeper into their areas of interest through reading courses. These specially designed courses, not typically offered as part of the curriculum, are arranged between a student and a faculty member [1].
Reading courses can focus on a topic of the student's choosing and cover any field of study. They count for academic credit, can fulfill departmental and certificate requirements, and offer opportunities for in-depth, independent research [2-4].
To set up a reading course, you would typically need to identify a faculty advisor who can supervise the course or reading list, and propose a course outline or reading list for approval by the department [5]. The course must meet for at least 2.5 hours per week and include at least two written assignments [6].
While Princeton University does not provide detailed public instructions specific to "setting up a reading course," it is advisable to contact the relevant academic department directly or the registrar's office for precise procedures and deadlines.
As you navigate your academic journey at Princeton, structuring your senior year and choosing courses is an important aspect. Reading courses provide a small, often one-on-one environment for individually-focused advice from the professor [7].
The university also offers a variety of research-based courses that can complement your reading course experience [8].
It's worth noting that students can take a maximum of three reading courses for credit during their time at Princeton [9].
The Junior Paper (JP) at Princeton is another research-oriented opportunity that students should consider [10].
The Princeton Review and related prep courses are separate from Princeton University and do not manage university courses [11].
Here's a list of 5 Princeton courses that the author will never forget:
- Political Philosophy (POLS 357): This course delved into the works of Plato, Aristotle, and other classic philosophers, providing a foundation for understanding political theory.
- The History of Jazz (MUSC 305): This course explored the evolution of jazz music, from its roots in Africa to its influence on contemporary music.
- The Physics of Stars (ASTRO 301): This course offered a fascinating look at the life cycles of stars, from their birth to their death.
- The Psychology of Creativity (PSYC 310): This course examined the psychological factors that contribute to creative thinking and innovation.
- The Modern Novel (ENGL 322): This course examined the development of the modern novel, with a focus on works by James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Remember, the key to a successful academic journey at Princeton is to take advantage of the opportunities available, such as reading courses, and to seek out the guidance of your professors and academic advisors.
As you progress through your academic journey at Princeton University, consider enrolling in a junior paper to start your research-oriented experiences early. In your senior year, you might also choose to set up a reading course for a focused, in-depth exploration of a topic you're passionate about. This could culminate in a senior thesis, demonstrating your extensive learning in education-and-self-development and lifelong-learning.
