Explore new worlds of knowledge and expand your intellectual horizons at Berkeley

The L&S Division of Undergraduate Studies nurtures rich intellectual relationships between faculty and students, in the best tradition of a liberal arts education. Our programs and courses provide undergraduates with access to enriching and inspiring interactions with faculty across multiple fields of study.

L&S 1: Research, Discovery, and You

L&S 1

L&S 1: Research, Discovery, and You is a course intended for new students in the College of Letters & Science. Its broad purpose is to introduce students to different ways of thinking about knowledge production as practiced across L&S.

Freshman & Sophomore Seminars

Freshman & Sophomore Seminars are designed to enable personal interaction and dialogue among a small group of students and a professor, as they explore a topic of mutual interest.
Oliver O'Reilly with students in freshman seminar
Students in class

Big Ideas Courses

What happens when you bring together two (or more!) outstanding professors, from completely different disciplines, and one Big Idea? Add a room full of Berkeley undergraduates and let the spirited discussions begin!

L&S Discovery Courses

Ideally suited to fulfill the breadth requirements in engaging ways, and designed to be accessible to non-majors, L&S Discovery Courses are taught by some of the best teachers among the Berkeley faculty.
New course to tap UC Berkeley’s diversity and maker spirit

L&S 110: Brilliance of Berkeley

If there is one course you should take at UC Berkeley before you graduate, this is it! This signature class provides newest students with a comprehensive overview of the Brilliance of Berkeley, while reminding graduating students of exactly why you chose to come to Berkeley.

Additional Courses

In addition to our signature curricular programs, L&S Division of Undergraduate Studies offers innovative courses in partnership with units across campus, including the Bancroft Library, the Transfer Student Center, and Berkeley Career Engagement.

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This seminar has been fantastic. The subject is fascinating, and I appreciated the class for its intimate setting and lively discussions. The professor was meticulous about inviting all voices to the table. It was hands down my favorite class of the semester and my entire career at Berkeley so far. It helped me build my academic voice and confidence, which will be helpful in the future. I've met great people I can keep in touch with, and I know the professor would be glad to help out with anything I need or offer any guidance during the rest of my time at Berkeley (and beyond). An outstanding experience!

— Class of 2025 Freshman Seminar Student