All Residential College (RC) students are also part of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA). That means you’ll graduate with a U-M degree from LSA but you’ll meet many of your core requirements in smaller, discussion-based RC classes that provide more support, deeper engagement, and a strong community.
Below you’ll find an overview of how RC requirements align with and enhance LSA requirements.
First-Year Writing Seminar (FYWS)
- LSA Requirement: A first-year seminar focused on rhetorical and analytical writing.
- RC Difference: RC students take an RC First-Year Writing Seminar, capped at 15 students, emphasizing reflection, revision, and engaged discussion.
- Fulfills the LSA First-Year Writing requirement (and the Honors First-Year Writing requirement).
- Restricted to RC students for a more intimate, rigorous writing experience.
Language Proficiency
- LSA Requirement: 16 credits (typically 4 semesters) of language study in a traditional classroom setting.
- RC Difference: RC offers semi-immersion language sequences in Spanish, French, Russian, German, and Japanese.
- Students complete the equivalent of 20 credits (3 semesters) plus an advanced Readings course
- This fulfills the LSA language requirement, often in less time, and builds greater fluency.
- Note: Students may elect to pursue proficiency in a language offered through LSA. Check with your RC advisor for more information.
Creative Expression/Arts Practicum
- LSA Requirement: One course in creative expression (theory applied through practice).
- RC Difference: RC students complete an Arts Practicum (3+ credits) emphasizing creativity and personal growth.
- Options include RC music, drama, or visual arts courses, or approved LSA courses.
- Fulfills LSA’s Creative Expression requirement while deepening hands-on artistic practice.
Additional RC Requirements
Beyond the shared requirements above, RC students also:
- Complete four additional RC courses (if pursuing a non-RC major). These may overlap with LSA distribution requirements.
- Live in East Quad with the RC community for the first two years, building strong connections through shared academics and co-curricular activities.
Advising & Support
- RC students receive the same degree requirements as all LSA students: distribution, race & ethnicity, quantitative reasoning, and upper-level writing.
- What’s different: RC Academic Services is located right in East Quad. From orientation to graduation, our dedicated advisors help you navigate majors, requirements, schedules, and academic concerns.
