Academics
College Catalog > Undergraduate Curriculum
Lake Forest College recognizes that no two individuals have the same educational needs and goals, just as no two individuals have identical strengths, capacities, motivation, and preparation. At the same time, the College believes that all individuals benefit from breadth of education in the liberal arts combined with depth of study in traditional disciplines or interdisciplinary fields. Accordingly, the College provides each student with great freedom of choice in designing a program of study in consultation with a faculty advisor, while requiring the student to pursue a wide range of subjects and develop considerable expertise in one academic area. A graduate who represents the educational ideals of Lake Forest College will have studied a broad range of ideas; developed real competence in writing, speaking, and quantitative skills; learned how to gather, access, and present information, and gained significant experience in the humanities, the natural sciences and mathematics, and the social sciences while completing requirements for a major in an academic department or interdisciplinary program. The College’s General Education Curriculum, its advising system, and the requirements of each major are designed to support these educational ideals, as are the many other academic programs in the undergraduate curriculum.
As they explore and take advantage of the rich curriculum at the College, students should keep in mind the requirements for graduation. In order to receive the Bachelor of Arts degree, students who enter the College as first-year students are expected to pass 32 courses, fulfill the general education requirements, attain a 2.00 overall grade-point average (without rounding up), and complete the requirements of a major. Important details concerning graduation requirements are listed in the Lake Forest College Student Handbook.
Not all courses listed in this catalog are taught every year.
General Education Curriculum
The General Education Curriculum (GEC) for the Bachelor of Arts degree establishes an integrated framework for the general education of undergraduate students across their four years of study at the College. The curriculum includes distributional requirements intended to ensure that students will receive breadth as well as depth in their education while continuing to allow them considerable latitude in designing their individual programs of study. Included also are requirements for writing and for cultural diversity. Fulfillment of the requirements for general education begins in the fall semester of the first year and continues to the senior year, in the following manner.
First-Year Studies
A course in the First-Year Studies Program. For a description of the program and courses, see First-Year Studies in the course listings. This course is required of all students entering the College with fewer than four credits and does not meet any GEC breadth or cultural diversity requirement.
First-Year Writing
One course (other than English 100) that includes a substantial amount of writing, to be taken during the first year. First-Year Studies courses satisfy this requirement. This writing- intensive course is required of all students entering the College with fewer than seven credits. Additional courses that fulfill the requirement are determined by the College’s Curricular Policies Committee in conjunction with the director of writing programs. The list of courses will be maintained by the Registrar’s Office.
Breadth: Academic Divisions
At a minimum, students must complete two credits from each of the three liberal arts areas: humanities, social sciences, and natural and mathematical sciences. Each of these six credits must come from a different department. These credits must be completed by the end of the junior year. Of the four credits in humanities and social sciences, two must be cultural diversity courses.
For purposes of the General Education Curriculum breadth requirement, departments are classified into divisions as follows:
Humanities
Art, Communication, English, Modern Languages and Literatures, History, Music, Philosophy, Religion, Theater
Social Sciences
Economics and Business, Education, Politics, Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology
Natural and Mathematical Sciences
Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Computer Science, Physics
Two introductory courses do not count toward the GEC breadth requirement: English 100 and Mathematics 105. These courses are noted in the class schedule. In addition, First-Year Studies and Senior Studies courses do not count toward the GEC breadth requirement.
Cultural Diversity
At least two courses from an approved list, to be taken by the end of the junior year; the two cultural diversity courses must come from different departments. (Please note: Only one course may be counted in Modern Languages and Literatures. First-Year Studies courses do not fulfill the requirement.)
Below are courses in the curriculum that satisfy the requirement. Not all listed courses are offered in a given year.
Afam (All courses listed as African American Studies), Amer 110 (Introduction to American Studies), Amer 215 (NAACP: 100th Anniversary of Progressive Activism), Amer 223 (The American Avant-Garde 1960-80), Amer 224 (American Families), Amer 226 (American Celebrations: Chicago Performance and Alternative Culture), Art 202 (Greece in the Bronze Age), Art 203 (Greece in the Classical-Roman Ages)
Art 204 (Greece in the Byzantine-Medieval Ages), Art 205 (Japanese Art and Culture),Art 206 (Chinese Art and Culture), Art 226 (Colonial Latin American Art), Art 315 (Japonisme Occidentalism), Art 325 (Women, Art, and Society), Art 326 (Gender, Identity, and Modern Art), Asia (All courses listed as Asian Studies), Biol 102 (People and the World of Plants), Biol 108 (Environmental Worldviews), Biol 134 (Core Seminar: Emerging World Diseases), Busn 322 (Emerging Markets Analysis), Busn 340 (Asian Business Culture and Trade Relations), Busn 341 (Global Cultures and International Business Activities of Chicago), Busn 342 (African Culture and Business Development), Busn 470 (Latin American Global Business) if not used for GEC Senior Studies Requirement, Busn 471 (Senior Seminar: Asian Business Culture and Trade Relations) if not used for GEC Senior Studies Requirement, Busn 489 (Globalization and Its Impact on Rich and Poor Countries) if not used for GEC Senior Studies Requirement, Chin 250 (Chinese Literature in Translation), Chin 252 (Chinese Literature and Civilization), Clas 275 (Greek Greats), Comm 280 (African American Communication), Comm 350 (Topics in Communication) when applicable, Comm 382 (Women's Rhetoric and the Feminist Critique), Econ 245 (Child Labor in Latin America), Econ 270 (Latin American Development), Econ 322 (Emerging Markets Analysis), Econ 381 (The Economics of Development), Econ 382 (Economic Policymaking in Latin America), Econ 430 (International Trade Theory and Policy), Econ 470 (Economic Development in the Third World), Econ 489 (Globalization and Its Impact on Rich and Poor Countries) if not used for GEC Senior Studies Requirement, Educ 215 (Instructional Communication Theory and Practice), Educ 304 (Elementary Fieldwork and Seminar), Educ 315 (Middle School Fieldwork and Seminar), Engl 216 (African American Literature I), Engl 217 (African American Literature II), Engl 218 (Blues Women in African American Literature), Engl 223 (Literary Types and Traditions: Multicultural Literature), Engl 224 (Literature of the Vietnam War), Engl 225 (Women and Literature), Engl 251 (Postcolonial Literatures), Engl 307 (Women Writers: Austen, Wharton, Woolf), Engl 310 (Introduction to the African Novel in English), Engl 316 (Voices of Reform: Nineteenth-Century African American Writings), Engl 325 (Black Literature of the 1960s), Engl 327 (Interdisciplinary Studies: Postmodernism and the Asian/Asian American Novel), Engl 337 (Women in Theater), Engl 351 (Junior Colloquium: American Women Writers of the Gilded Age: 1865-1914), Engl 385 (Activism in Theater: Gay, Lesbian, Transgender Voices), Envr 212 (Multicultural Approaches to the Environment), Envr 240 (Religious Perspectives on Environmental Issues), Envr 271 (Technology and Human Values), Fciv (All courses listed as Foreign Civilizations), Fren (All language courses, 300-level or above), Fren (All foreign literature courses), Germ (All language courses, 300-level or above), Germ (All foreign literature courses), Hist 110 (World Civilizations to 1650), Hist 200 (Origins of East Asia), Hist 201 (Modern East Asia), Hist 202 (South Asia from Earliest Times to 1750), Hist 203 (South Asia Since 1750), Hist 205 (Sub-Saharan Africa), Hist 207 (Introduction to Islamic Cultures and Civilizations), Hist 214 (History of Russia), Hist 233 (Eastern Europe in the Twentieth Century), Hist 254 (African American History), Hist 255 (African American Autobiography), Hist 257 (History of Mexico), Hist 271 (Women in Modern History: Europe and America), Hist 282 (Modern China), Hist 286 (Modern Japan), Hist 288 (War and Revolution in Asia: China, Korea, Vietnam), Hist 304 (Roman and Medieval Christianity), Hist 307 (Topics in East Asian History), Hist 309 (Problems in Modern Chinese History), Hist 310 (East Asia and the West), Hist 315 (Rise and Fall of Soviet Russia), Hist 317 (Islamic Culture(s) in South Asia), Hist 343 (Literature and Society in Russia), Hist 347 (Topics in Gender and History), Hist 361 (Advanced Topics on African American History), Japn (All language courses, 300-level or above), Japn (All foreign literature courses), Lnam (All courses listed as Latin American Studies except Lnam 381), Litr (All courses listed as Literature in Translation), Musc 217 (World Music Survey), Musc 227 (History of Jazz), Musc 287 (World Music Colloquium: Music of the Arab World), Phil 200 (Philosophy and Gender), Phil 212 (Multicultural Approaches to the Environment), Phil 272 (Currents in Latin American Thought), Phil 275 (Chinese Ethics: Ancient Chinese Moral Thinking), Phil 282 (Visions of the Family: East and West), Phil 285 (Topics in Japanese Thought), Phil 303 (Gender and Character), Phil 305 (Comparative Philosophy: East and West), Phil 360 (Identity and Dreams), Phil 365 (The Metaphysics of Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation), Pols 212 (Politics of the Third World), Pols 214 (The Politics of South Africa), Pols 215 (Asian Politics), Pols 216 (The Politics of the Middle East), Pols 217 (African Politics), Pols 219 (The Politics of Latin America), Pols 242 (Islamic Fundamentalism: Revival or Revolution?), Pols 318 (Topics in Comparative Politics), Pols 328 (Topics in American Politics) when applicable, Pols 339 (Comparative Nationalism), Pols 340 (World Politics), Pols 345 (Topics in International Relations: Arms Proliferation and Control), Pols 355 (Family Structure and Political Theory), Psyc 195 (Cross-Cultural Psychology), Psyc 205 (Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination), Psyc 340 (Psychology of Women and Men), Psyc 355 (Community Psychology)
Relg 112 (Religious Values in Cultural Context), Relg 114 (The Self and Salvation), Relg 116 (Chicago: A Rainbow of Religions), Relg 210 (Religions of Indigenous Peoples), Relg 213 (Islam)
Relg 214 (Hinduism), Relg 215 (Buddhism), Relg 216 (Chinese Religions), Relg 235 (Religion in Contemporary America), Relg 240 (Religious and Ethical Perspectives on the Environment), Relg 255 (Islam and the West), Relg 275 (Female Religious Images in the West), Relg 276 (Female Religious Images in Asia), Relg 311 (Roman and Medieval Christianity), Relg 314 (Pilgrimage in Contemporary India), Relg 316 (Topics in Asian Religions), Relg 320 (Topics in Comparative Religion), Soan 199 (Religion in Society), Soan 201 (Ancient Greece: Life, Thought, and the Arts), Soan 202 (Greece in the Bronze Age), Soan 203 (Greece in the Classical-Roman Ages), Soan 204 (Greece in the Byzantine-Medieval Ages), Soan 210 (Principles of Social Organization), Soan 211 (Ethnography: Cultures and Texts), Soan 212 (Introduction to Chinese Culture and Society), Soan 215 (Introduction to Japanese Thought and Society), Soan 217 (Sociology of Work), Soan 221 (Peoples and Cultures of Modern Africa), Soan 230 (Anthropology of Sports), Soan 231 (Histories and Cultures of Latin America), Soan 240 (Deviance), Soan 242 (Maya Cultures and Histories), Soan 243 (Andes Cultures and Histories), Soan 244 (Anthropology of Education), Soan 246 (Anthropology of Communication), Soan 247 (Anthropology of Pacific Islands), Soan 250 (Anthropology of Globalization), Soan 253 (Family and Kinship), Soan 271 (Technology and Human Values), Soan 272 (Popular Culture in Latin America), Soan 275 (American Celebrations: Chicago Performance and Alternative Culture), Soan 280 (Gender, Culture, and Society), Soan 281 (Gender Issues in China and Taiwan), Soan 282 (Visions of the Family: East and West), Soan 285 (Social Structure and Culture through Film), Soan 302 (Sexuality and Society), Soan 322 (Sociology of Islam), Soan 330 (Truth, Lies and Secrets), Soan 352 (Race, Love, and Conquest), Soan 361 (Cultural Anthropology), Soan 363 (Globalization, Modernity, Culture), Soan 373 (Chinese and Japanese Religion in Practice), Soan 375 (History of Social Thought), Soan 395 (Law, Culture, and Society), Span (All language courses, 300-level or above), Span (All foreign literature courses), Thtr 285 (American Celebrations: Chicago Performance and Alternative Culture), Thtr 330 (Global Theater), Thtr 336 (African American Theater), Thtr 337 (Women in Theater), Thtr 338 (Activism in Theater: Gay, Lesbian, Transgender Voices), Womn 200 (Philosophy and Gender), Womn 218 (Blues Women in African American Literature), Womn 225 (Women and Literature), Womn 252 (Introduction to Women's and Gender Studies), Womn 253 (Family and Kinship), Womn 271 (Women in Modern History: Europe and America), Womn 275 (Female Religious Images in the West), Womn 276 (Female Religious Images in Asia), Womn 280 (Gender, Culture and Society), Womn 281 (Gender Issues in China and Taiwan), Womn 282 (Visions of the Family: East and West), Womn 302 (Sexuality and Society), Womn 303 (Gender and Character), Womn 307 (Women Writers: Austen, Wharton, Woolf), Womn 309 (Problems in Modern Chinese History: Women in China), Womn 318 (Topics in Comparative Politics), Womn 325 (Women, Art, and Society), Womn 326 (Gender, Identity, and Modern Art), Womn 337 (Women in Theater), Womn 338 (Activism in Theater: Gay, Lesbian, Transgender Voices), Womn 340 (Psychology of Women and Men), Womn 343 (Literature and Society in Russia), Womn 347 (Topics in Gender and History), Womn 350 (Topics in Communication) when applicable, Womn 351 (Junior Colloquium: American Women Writers of the Gilded Age: 1865-1914), Womn 355 (Family Structure and Political Theory), Womn 382 (Women’s Rhetoric and the Feminist Critique), Womn 400 (Women's Voices in Latin America), Womn 401 (Special Studies: The Role of Women in African Literature of French Expression)
Off-Campus Programs
The following study-abroad programs meet the GEC breadth requirements when applicable and the GEC Cultural Diversity Requirements.
Beijing Semester Program of Asian Studies, hosted at Peking University, Beijing, China
International Internship/Study-Abroad Program in Paris, France
International Internship/Study-Abroad Program in Granada, Spain
Program in Greece
ACM Programs
Czech Program
Florence Program
India Studies
Japan Study
London and Florence: Arts
Russia Semester
Studies in Latin American Culture and Society (Costa Rica)
Tanzania Human Evolution and Ecology, Tanzania Nation Building
Tropical Research Program (Costa Rica)
Urban Education Program
Urban Studies Program
Senior Studies
A senior studies course acts as a culminating experience in the student’s major. The course emphasizes writing and speaking and encourages integration of the methods and content explored in the major. Students must fulfill this requirement, for which courses are specially designated within their major department. Senior theses, research projects, and creative projects may also be used to fulfill the senior studies requirement with permission of the department chairperson. Seniors who do not pass this requirement may not graduate.
Students who have more than one major must satisfy the senior studies requirement in each of their majors. Students may complete two separate senior studies courses or choose from one of the following options: (1) an interdisciplinary two-credit senior thesis that is satisfactory to both departments or (2) any two-credit combination of a senior seminar, senior thesis, research project, and/or creative project.
Juniors may enroll in a senior studies course and fulfill the requirement with the permission of the instructor. This requirement may be not be completed during the first year or sophomore year.
Programs for First-Year Students
The General Education Curriculum begins with the College’s First-Year Studies Program, which was established to create a special, intellectually engaging atmosphere of close interaction between first-year students and their teachers. For a full description of this program, see First-Year Studies under course listings.
Special First-Year Courses
All departments in the College offer courses of an introductory nature that are intended primarily for first-year students and are listed and described under the various departments. All courses designated at the 100 level are recommended for first-year students, and many courses at the 200 level are open to first-year students without prerequisites or special permission. In addition, the College offers a number of courses or sections of courses that are open only to first-year students. Classes are smaller in size than most regular courses to allow for more concentrated instruction and to facilitate discussion. These courses have as their principal aim the development of basic skills in writing, critical reading, analysis, oral communication, and basic mathematics. The College recognizes the importance of good communication skills. Accordingly, the College is committed to teaching writing as a central concern in a liberal arts education throughout the curriculum. Basic writing skills are the main topic in English 100 (English Composition). First-year writing skills are assessed to determine whether enrollment in this course is appropriate.
Honors Fellow Program
The Honors Fellows program is a initiative that recognizes those students admitted to Lake Forest College with exemplary high school careers and high promise for independent study and research at the College. The Honors Fellows program is an example of the strength of a liberal arts education. Fellows are expected to think deeply and broadly, and to join their teachers and fellow students in serious intellectual inquiry and debate. They will produce independent work, research, Student Symposium presentations, Independent Scholar majors, distinguished senior theses, and provide intellectual leadership.
Those admitted to the program are granted a number of unique opportunities and distinctions. Fellows will receive an Honors Fellow designation on their transcript. They will receive special invitations to College lectures and guest presentations. Honors Fellows who maintain at least a 3.6 GPA in the fall semester of their first year will be offered the opportunity to enroll in a fifth course in the following semester for no additional charge. A typical student course load is 4 courses in the fall and 4 courses in the spring. The opportunity of taking an extra course, free of charge, is normally reserved only for upper-division students who make the Dean’s list. With this option extended to first year Honors Fellows, they are given more flexibility during their college tenure for research, study abroad, internships, or independent study. In subsequent years, Honors Fellows may be given the opportunity to enroll in the College’s sophomore and junior honors seminar courses. All honors fellows will be invited to apply to become a Richter Scholar. Those accepted into the Richter Scholar Summer Research Program will conduct primary research with Lake Forest College faculty in the summer after their first year.
Richter Apprentice Scholar Program
The Richter Apprentice Scholar Program is designed to provide unusual intellectual opportunities to a small group of outstanding students early in their College lives. Begun in 1988 through a generous grant from the Evalyn Elizabeth Cook Richter and Paul K. Richter Memorial Funds, this program fosters a strong commitment to the life of the mind and encourages students to consider careers in research and teaching. Students’ experiences have inspired participants to take full advantage of the enriching opportunities, ranging from independent study to senior theses, offered at Lake Forest. Honors fellows and other academically excellent students with an interest in research may apply for the Richter Scholar program in the fall of their first year. Those accepted into the program will be matched with a faculty mentor and a research project of mutual interest. In the summer between the first and second years, Richter scholars are employed for 10 weeks as apprentice scholars working one-on-one with their faculty mentor. The students act as junior collaborators, joining the faculty in its research. Through this work they develop the ability to do independent research in a particular field as well as an appreciation for its conceptual framework. As the Richter scholars live and work together, participating in a weekly faculty-student colloquium in addition to their individual research, they become a community of peers providing encouragement and support for each other’s present and future intellectual and research endeavors.
Fields of Study
Lake Forest College maintains major and minor fields of concentration in both traditional academic departments and interdisciplinary programs. Departmental majors and minors permit depth of study in particular disciplines, while interdisciplinary programs encourage students to draw connections among distinct bodies of knowledge and areas of inquiry. A major represents significant course work leading to substantial knowledge and competence in a given field; a minor entails less course work and is designed to produce basic knowledge and competence in a given field.
Students may declare up to two majors and one minor or up to one major and two minors. Students declaring a major and a minor must complete course requirements in both major and minor fields. Students who choose three major/minor areas may not select more than two in the same division. Upon successful completion of a minor, the student will have it recorded on his or her transcript. No student may receive more than 15 credits in any department.
The Major
Students may choose a major from 20 departmental fields or from a number of formal interdisciplinary majors designed by the College and supervised by faculty committees. In all cases, students are expected to declare a major by the end of the sophomore year and to make significant progress toward the completion of that major during the junior year. Every major will also include a culminating senior studies requirement, ordinarily a senior seminar or a senior thesis. Students declaring a double major must complete course requirements in both major fields. It is possible for some courses to be counted toward both majors. However, the second major must consist of at least five separate courses, ones that do not double count, and at least three of these five must be at the 300 or 400 level. Majors may be pursued in the following departments and interdisciplinary programs (noted with an asterisk).
* American Studies
* Area Studies
Art
* Asian Studies
Biology
Business
Chemistry
Communication
Computer Science
Economics
Education
English
* Environmental Studies
French
History
* Independent Scholar
* International Relations
* Latin American Studies
Mathematics
Music
Philosophy
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Religion
Sociology and Anthropology
Spanish
Theater
The Minor
Students may declare a minor any time before they graduate but are not required to declare a minor for graduation. The minor must consist of at least four separate courses, ones that do not double count. Minors are offered in the following departments and interdisciplinary programs (noted with an asterisk).
* African American Studies
* American Studies
* Area Studies
Art
* Asian Studies
Biology
Business
Chemistry
* Classical Studies
Communication
Computer Science
Economics
Educational Studies
English
French
German
History
* International Relations
* Islamic World Studies
* Latin American Studies
Mathematics
Music
Philosophy
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Religion
Sociology and Anthropology
Spanish
Theater
* Urban Studies
* Women's and Gender Studies
Interdisciplinary Studies
The College encourages interdisciplinary approaches to knowledge and supports majors and minors that seek to draw connections among traditional academic disciplines. Typically, interdisciplinary majors and minors permit more flexibility in course selection while challenging stu- dents to assume greater responsibility for course selection and the integration of knowledge.
Interdisciplinary majors are available in American Studies, Area Studies, Asian Studies, Environmental Studies, Independent Scholar, International Relations, and Latin American Studies. Interdisciplinary minors are possible in African American Studies, American Studies, Area Studies, Asian Studies, Communication, International Relations, Latin American Studies, Metropolitan Studies, and Women’s and Gender Studies.
Experiential Learning
As part of its mission to prepare students “to become responsible citizens of the global community,” Lake Forest College encourages and enables its students to participate in a significant learning experience that connects academic work with the world beyond the campus. The College aims to provide its students both with a sound education in the basic liberal arts emphasizing the crucial skills of critical thinking, reading, writing, and speaking and with the opportunities to apply these skills in real-life situations. This experience can take several forms including, but not exclusively restricted to, study in an off-campus program (either domestic or international), work on an internship, and a service learning exercise that is part of the assigned work of a Lake Forest College course.
Independent Scholar Program
An independent study experience is the primary component of the Independent Scholar Program, which enables qualified and motivated students to design and pursue an individual degree program in the junior and senior years, focusing on a particular topic or theme rather than on a single academic discipline.
Independent Scholars may have unique interdisciplinary majors or traditional ones (or a combination). Among the topics that Independent Scholars at Lake Forest College have examined in recent years are contemporary performance practices, the theology and philosophy of Nikos Kazantzakis, advertising in the arts, psychoneuroimmunology, experimental theater, aesthetics, Greek ideas of law and justice, an analysis of contemporary values, religion and environmental thought, and language and ethics.
The Independent Scholar Program emphasizes self-determination for its students. The responsibility for initiative in the program lies with students, beginning with presentation of their case for admission to the program. Applications are accepted from second-semester sophomores or first-semester juniors.
The Independent Scholar Program is a program for outstanding students; all students must complete a senior thesis or project and an examination in the major. Not subject to the normal limitations for tutorials and research projects, Independent Scholars are encouraged to include extensive independent study in their major. They are expected as well to fulfill the ideals of a liberal arts education. Their program advisors do not need to be members of the Independent Scholar Committee.
Independent Study
Independent study, under the guidance and supervision of faculty members, offers challenging opportunities for investigating areas beyond the limits of regular courses. A student may engage in independent study for credit, given the availability and approval of a faculty member competent in the chosen subject matter.
A total of seven independent study credits, including internships, may count toward graduation. Students are expected to arrange each independent study program before the end of the previous semester. A written proposal signed by the relevant faculty member is submitted to the dean of the faculty for review. Proposal forms and detailed information may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office. The following are four basic types of independent study: tutorial, research project, senior thesis, and creative project.
Tutorial
A tutorial is a directed reading course on a special topic not covered in a regularly offered course. Students meet regularly with the faculty supervisor to discuss the readings and are normally assigned a number of short papers. Recent tutorials have dealt with such topics as advanced Intermediate Japanese, New Testament Greek, advanced Chinese, mysticism, European industrial revolution, recent bioethical issues, song writing. Students may take one tutorial a year beginning with the second semester of the first year, for a total of four tutorials.
Research Project
A research project is more specialized and usually more advanced than a tutorial, requiring greater independence and originality on the part of the student. Students conduct scholarly research with a view to producing substantial work in the form of a term paper or report. Among recent projects undertaken were studies involving ethical issues on intellectual property, Weblogs: the new intellectuals, cultural values and global business, U.S. Social Security system, mestastable hydrogen atom collisions. Juniors and seniors are eligible to undertake research projects. A maximum of four research project course credits is allowed toward graduation, no more than two in a semester and no more than three in a year.
Senior Thesis
A senior thesis is original scholarly research undertaken in the student’s senior year, usually over two terms. The research culminates in a formal written dissertation and oral examination that is evaluated by a faculty committee. Outstanding theses are awarded distinction at graduation. Senior theses may be undertaken for one or two course credits; normally two course credits will not be awarded in the same semester.
Creative Project
A creative project is an independent course of work, under faculty supervision, in a creative medium such as painting, fiction, sculpture, poetry, photography, or music. Creative project credits are limited in the same way as tutorials; senior projects in studio art may be approved for a maximum of two course credits.
Summer Session
Director: Janet McCracken
The Lake Forest College Summer Session is open to college students, advanced high school students, and community residents. Nearly all courses are taught by regular Lake Forest College faculty. Two summer school terms are offered. Session I, a three-week term, begins in mid-May. Session II, a seven-week term, begins in early June. Schedules and registration forms for the course offerings may be obtained in the Registrar’s Office.
All students must complete a Summer Session application and registration form and make a deposit for each course for which they register. Currently enrolled students must obtain an advisor’s signature on their registration forms. Community residents or students enrolled at other institutions may apply to the Summer Session by completing a Summer Session application, making the required deposit, and sending an official transcript or letter of good standing from a current academic institution. Advanced high school students must complete a Summer Session application, make the required deposit, and arrange for a high school counselor to submit a letter confirming that the applicant is capable of college-level course work. Admission to the Summer Session does not constitute admission to the regular program at the College.
Independent study during the summer is normally restricted to internships. In order to have a summer internship, a student must submit a preliminary application to the director of summer internships no later than the Friday one week prior to commencement. Other independent studies (e.g., tutorials or research projects) may be approved in exceptional cases, but only if it can be demonstrated that a student’s academic program makes that work a necessity. Such requests are to be submitted to the Registrar’s Office for approval by the dean of the faculty before the end of the spring semester.
Community Education for Adults
Director: Carol Gayle
Lake Forest College takes a special interest in serving the adult community of the North Shore through the Community Education Office. Regular course offerings of the College are open to members of the community for credit and many may be audited. The College provides special academic counseling for adult students. People who meet the established admission requirements may take courses for college credit in individually tailored programs on a part-time or full-time basis.
Adults who already have a bachelor’s degree may be interested in the College’s Graduate Program in Liberal Studies (see the separate listing for this program in the printed catalog or at www.lakeforest.edu/graduateprogram on the Web.
In addition, the College welcomes adults from the community onto its campus for the stimulating lectures, plays, discussions, and concerts that are a part of the rich, cultural environment provided for students.
For more information regarding College courses, including tuition, registration, and schedules, please call or visit the Community Education Office in Young Hall 222, 847-735-5083.
Pre-Professional And Career Preparation
Lake Forest College recognizes the advantages of joining the ideals of a liberal arts education with pre-professional and career preparation. The College therefore offers its students a number of pre-professional opportunities.
Cooperative Degree Programs
Professional schools recognize the importance of the liberal arts tradition. Students specializing in narrow fields can bring to their studies not only a fundamental knowledge of the subject but also a sense of broader ethical concerns and a flexibility of mind that the liberal arts college fosters. With these goals in mind, the several schools have set up a cooperative degree program with Lake Forest College. In this program, students spend their first three years of college studies at Lake Forest and then go on to a graduate program to complete training. Students must complete all of the General Education Curriculum requirements of Lake Forest College except the senior studies requirement.
3+3 BA/JD Program with Chicago-Kent College of Law
Chicago-Kent College of Law and Lake Forest College have established an accelerated admissions program that allows eligible students to complete a Lake Forest bachelor’s degree and a Chicago-Kent J.D in a total of six years, rather than the usual seven.
Under this arrangement, the Chicago-Kent College of Law permits a limited number of exceptionally well-qualified students to enter the Chicago-Kent College of Law after completing their junior year of undergraduate study at Lake Forest College. Students participating in this accelerated degree program receive the bachelor’s degree from Lake Forest College following successful completion of the first year of law school and the law degree (J.D.) from Chicago-Kent College of Law after successful completion of the required law school curriculum.
Before entering the Chicago-Kent College of Law (in other words, by the end of the junior year), accelerated degree students must complete all requirements of their academic major and earn at least 24 courses toward the bachelor’s degree. Upon successful completion of two full semesters of law school, 8 Lake Forest credits will be applied from Chicago-Kent as elective credit toward the undergraduate degree.
Students should contact their pre-law advisor early in the fall semester of junior year to discuss the admissions process. At the time of application, students should have completed at least 16 courses toward the bachelor’s degree.
Juniors at Lake Forest College applying for admission to this accelerated degree program must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). The Chicago-Kent College of Law evaluates carefully the quality of the student’s academic record, faculty recommendations, and the applicant’s LSAT score. Chicago-Kent College of Law welcomes applications to this accelerated degree program from qualified students belonging to groups under-represented in the legal profession. Accelerated degree students are guaranteed admission to Chicago-Kent College of Law provided they meet the following criteria:
- take the LSAT exam by February of the third undergraduate year;
- maintain an undergraduate GPA of 3.25 and obtain an LSAT score that it equivalent to or higher than the median score for the Chicago-Kent entering class OR obtain an LSAT score of at least 154 and maintain an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.60;
- complete a law school application by April 15 of the third undergraduate year;
- fulfill the undergraduate requirements specified by Lake Forest College and complete the required undergraduate courses;
- maintain a record that the law school director of admissions determines to be consistent with the character and fitness requirements of the bar examining authorities.
Students who participate in the program but who do not meet the academic standards for guaranteed admission are invited to apply through the regular competitive application process for admission to Chicago-Kent College of Law after three years of undergraduate study. In addition to GPA and LSAT profiles, other qualifications are considered, including extracurricular activities, involvement in cultural or civic affairs, and work experience.
3+3 BA/JD Program with Loyola School of Law
Loyola University (Chicago) School of Law and Lake Forest College have established an accelerated admissions program that allows eligible students to complete a Lake Forest bachelor’s degree and a Loyola J.D. in a total of six years, rather than the usual seven.
Under this arrangement, the Loyola University (Chicago) School of Law permits a limited number of exceptionally well-qualified students to enter after completing their junior year of undergraduate study at Lake Forest College. Students participating in this accelerated admission program receive the bachelor’s degree from Lake Forest College following successful completion of the first year of law school and the law degree (J.D.) from Loyola (Chicago) after successful completion of the required law school curriculum.
Before entering the Loyola College of Law (in other words, by the end of the junior year), accelerated-admission students must complete all requirements of their academic major and earn at least 24 course credits toward the bachelor’s degree. Upon successful completion of two full semesters of law school, a maximum of 32 Loyola course credits (8 Lake Forest Credits) will be applied as elective credit toward the undergraduate degree.
Students applying for accelerated admission should complete the application process by early January of their junior year. It is preferable for applicants to have taken the LSAT by October of their junior year. Students should contact their pre-law advisor as early as possible in their academic career to discuss the admissions process. At the time of application, students should have completed at least 16 course credits toward the bachelor’s degree.
Juniors at Lake Forest College applying for admission to this accelerated program must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Successful applicants for accelerated admission will be expected to have an undergraduate cumulative grade point average and LSAT score at or above the median of college graduates accepted into the regular J.D. program. When an applicant’s GPA/LSAT profile is at an acceptable level, other qualifications are considered, including extracurricular activities, involvement in cultural or civic affairs, and work experience. Loyola welcomes applications from qualified students belonging to groups under-represented in the legal profession.
3+3 BA/JD Progam with Vermont Law School
Vermont Law School and Lake Forest College have established an accelerated admissions program that allows eligible students to complete a Lake Forest bachelor’s degree and a Vermont Law J.D. in a total of six years, rather than the usual seven.
Under this arrangement, Vermont Law School permits a limited number of exceptionally well-qualified students to enter the Vermont Law School after completing their junior year of undergraduate study at Lake Forest College. Students participating in this accelerated admission program receive the bachelor’s degree from Lake Forest College following successful completion of the first year of law school and the law degree (J.D.) from Vermont Law School after successful completion of the required law school curriculum.
Before entering Vermont Law School (in other words, by the end of the junior year), accelerated-admission students must complete all requirements of their academic major and earn at least 24 course credits toward the bachelor’s degree. Upon successful completion of two full semesters of law school, a maximum of 32 Vermont course credits (8 Lake Forest credits) will be applied as elective credit toward the undergraduate degree.
Students applying for accelerated admission should complete the application process by February 15 of their junior year. It is preferable for applicants to have taken the LSAT by October of their junior year. Students should contact their pre-law advisor early in the fall semester of sophomore year to discuss the admissions process. At the time of application, students should have completed at least 16 course credits toward the bachelor’s degree.
Juniors at Lake Forest College applying for admission to this accelerated admission program must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Vermont Law School evaluates carefully the quality of the student’s academic record, faculty recommendations, and the applicant’s LSAT score. Successful applicants for accelerated admission usually have an undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher and LSAT score of 159 or higher. When an applicant’s GPA/LSAT profile is at an acceptable level, other qualifications are considered, including extracurricular activities, involvement in cultural or civic affairs, and work experience. Some preference may be given to Lake Forest College majors in Environmental Studies. Vermont Law School welcomes applications to this accelerated admission program from qualified students belonging to groups under-represented in the legal profession.
The applicant’s file, from his/her tenure at Lake Forest College and any other academic institution from which credits were earned and/or applied toward the Lake Forest degree, must contain no evidence of character or fitness concerns that would generally disqualify the applicant from admission into Vermont Law School.
Accelerated Admission at Monterey Institute of International Studies
Advisor: James Marquardt
The Graduate School of International Policy and Management (GSIPM) at the Monterey Institute of International Studies (the Institute) is committed to educating and empowering the next generation of public policy professionals who will address the critical global issues of the 21st Century. Lake Forest College has a global focus and educates intelligent, enthusiastic and mature undergraduates who also have as their goal becoming global public policy professionals. Both the Institute and Lake Forest College believe that young policy professionals are best prepared by emphasizing wide knowledge, professional skills, the ability to apply this knowledge and these skills using a second language, as part of a high level of intercultural competence. With these shared interests, both institutions hereby agree that qualified Lake Forest College students may enter Institute programs with accelerated status. According to this understanding, Lake Forest College students admitted to the Institute with accelerated status need complete only 48 credits to earn their Master’s degree, instead of the 60 credits normally required.
Both institutions will jointly develop a process for identifying Lake Forest College students who are qualified to apply for accelerated entry. Key selection criteria for such students include:
- Academic excellence at Lake Forest College as indicated by overall GPA, GPA in those courses relevant to a specific degree program offered at GSIPM, and other academic work indicating an ability to succeed at the graduate level.
- Knowledge and expertise relevant to the degree or program the student will pursue at the Institute.
- Advanced second-language capabilities.
- Maturity, as indicated by evaluated professional work (e.g., an internship or job), the ability to manage their time, and demonstrated commitment to effective international policy study and practice once graduated from the Institute.
- Motivation to succeed in a rigorous professional education program.
- Support from faculty and others at Lake Forest, as well as supervisors of professional experience, in the form of a letter(s) emphasizing the above qualities.
Prior to enrollment at GSIPM the selected Lake Forest College student and the GSIPM staff will design a tentative program at GSIPM in which Lake Forest students are waived GSIPM courses previously completed at Lake Forest that which would otherwise be part of the degree curricula at the Institute. Within the 48 credits they must complete for the degree, Lake Forest College students must meet all graduation requirements for the specific degree they pursue, either by taking these courses at MIIS or at Lake Forest.
GSIPM requires all of its graduates to take 12 units of a second language. It may be possible that selected Lake Forest College students can waive some of this language requirement, based on an entrance exam. They may also choose to enroll in advanced intensive courses at MIIS or Middlebury College in the summer prior to enrollment and transfer in these units for their degree requirements. Students may also get language credit at MIIS in conjunction with professional service assignments where they use their second language.
Priority will be given to students in those Programs of Study at Lake Forest which best match the programs offered by GSIPM. The International Relations major is perhaps the most obviously applicable here, but Lake Forest College may recommend students to the GSIPM from Environmental Studies, Economics, Business, Politics, French, Spanish, Asian Studies, Islamic World Studies, or any Lake Forest College major program, including the Independent Scholar major. The Senior Thesis, if applicable, could be a significant part of the selection process.
As part of this agreement, students nominated by Lake Forest College and admitted with Accelerated Entry status to the Institute will receive preferential consideration for Monterey Institute Merit Scholarships. MIIS awards range from $7,000 - $15,000 per academic per year and are renewable for a second year, pending good academic performance. Lake Forest applicants will automatically be considered for the scholarship; there is no separate application required. For maximum consideration, students should apply for admission by March 15 for the following fall semester.
Students admitted with Accelerated Entry status may choose to defer enrollment for up to one year, for the purpose of gaining professional experience related to their MA program at MIIS. These students will have access to the Career Advising Center at MIIS for the purpose of assisting in placement which maximizes their preparation for their MA at MIIS. For this service, MIIS charges a fee of $500 and the student is not required to reapply for Accelerated Entry.
Dual-Degree Program in Engineering
Advisor: Michael Kash
Lake Forest cooperates with the Sever Institute of Technology at Washington University (St. Louis), in a program designed for students who plan to become professional engineers but who also desire a rigorous liberal arts education. With an enhanced background in the social sciences and humanities, the prospective engineer is better prepared to assume the responsibilities of leadership in contemporary society.
The program requires each participating student to complete at least 24 course credits (at least 20 taken at Lake Forest College) before going on to the Sever Institute of Technology in the School of Engineering and Applied Science at Washington University for the final two years of study. Admission to the final two years of the program is at the discretion of Washington University.
Students accepted into the engineering dual-degree program must complete an Approved Program Withdrawal form in the Office of Student Affairs before leaving the Lake Forest campus to enter Washington University.
The student will receive a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lake Forest after earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Washington University. The Lake Forest College degree will be a B.A. with no major specified, unless all requirements for the major (including the senior studies requirement) have been met at Lake Forest College.
The exact selection, combination, and sequence of courses to be taken at Lake Forest College, both in the natural sciences and in the social sciences and humanities, depends on the type of engineering to be pursued at Washington University. While at the College the student must register as a major in mathematics, computer science, or one of the natural sciences. The chairperson of the major department must certify that the student has completed at least three-fourths of the major requirements at the College.
The minimum requirements are a B average, with no transfer of credit for courses with grades lower than C-, and a formal recommendation from Lake Forest College. For further details regarding requirements, options, and course work at Washington University, students should consult with the program advisor at Lake Forest College.
Early consultation with the program advisor is vital in order to formulate and undertake the most appropriate course schedule. The recommended core of courses include the following: Math 110, 111, 210, and 214 (Calculus, Multivariable Calculus, and Differential Equations); Chemistry 110, 111 or Chemistry 120, 121 (General Chemistry or Principles of Chemistry and Introduction to Laboratory Research); Physics 120, 121 (General Physics); and Computer Science 112 (Object-Oriented Programming and Design). The Biomedical Engineering program requires Biology 120, 221, and 340 (Organismal Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology, and Animal Physiology) in addition to those courses listed above.
Five courses in the humanities and social sciences, including two in one field, with at least one at the 300 or 400 level and no more than two courses in performing or studio art are required.
The remaining courses are to be selected from the sciences, humanities, and social sciences at the discretion of the student and the advisor. The GEC and Cultural Diversity requirements must also be completed.
Education
Advisor: Dawn Abt-Perkins (Chair)
Lake Forest College prepares students for careers in teaching at the elementary, middle school/junior high, and high school levels. Courses leading to Initial Elementary and Secondary Certification in Illinois are offered. A major in education is available only in conjunction with another major. Details are given in the course listings.
Law
Advisors: David Boden (Chair), Richard Fisher, and Debra Levis
The Pre-Law Advising Program supports students who are considering the field of law as a career and assists them in the process of applying to law schools. Students receive close personal attention and advice and have the opportunity to participate in events related to the law professions. Faculty on the Pre-Law Advising Committee offer counsel on the range of law schools most suitable for each student and on all phases of the application process. There is no specific pattern of pre-law course work at Lake Forest College; a well-rounded, challenging four-year course of study in the liberal arts and all major undergraduate fields are appropriate training for future lawyers. A pre-law society visits area law schools, participates in regional and national mock trial tournaments, hosts visits by law professionals and law school officials, provides support for students taking the LSAT, and engages in other activities related to careers in law. Most students take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) in the summer or fall after the junior year, and complete the process of law school applications during the fall semester of the senior year. Increasingly, students nationwide engage in pre-professional or volunteer work before commencing the study of law, so that students may consider applying to law schools at any phase during their post-collegiate careers.
Medicine
Advisors: Lori Del Negro (Chair), Robert Glassman, Douglas Light, and Edward Packel
Students preparing for careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or other related health professions may major in any academic field, provided that their courses of study include the necessary science classes to ensure adequate preparation for the professional schools of their choice. Generally, these required science courses include a minimum of three courses in biology, four in chemistry, two in physics, and one or two courses in mathematics. Additional areas of study to be considered are English, ethics, logic, and the social sciences. In addition to each student’s chosen academic advisor, members of the Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC) are available to provide advice and information relevant to students interested in pursuing advanced study in the health professions. Students should inform the HPAC of their interest in the health professions as early in their academic career as possible. Further information about extracurricular professional experiences, the professional school application process, required standardized testing, and other important considerations are available through the HPAC.
Internships and Other Off-Campus Study Opportunities
Study opportunities in off-campus settings have enriched the curricular and extracurricular options of Lake Forest students for many years. Students who have taken advantage of such opportunities have gained new perspectives and fresh ideas. Off-campus study may take a student abroad, to other parts of the United States, or no farther than the City of Lake Forest. The College directly operates some of the programs described below. In most of the other programs the College is a sponsoring institution.
Off-Campus Study in the United States
Internship and practicum opportunities for off-campus study in the Chicago area and elsewhere in the United States are plentiful. Nearly half of all graduating students earn credit for an internship or practicum through a well-established program that takes advantage of the College’s location near a great metropolis. The Associated Colleges of the Midwest, a consortium of 13 distinguished liberal arts colleges to which Lake Forest College belongs, operates five domestic programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences as well as a large number of study-abroad programs. The College also cooperates with American University in offering a Washington Semester Program.
Internships and Practicums
Internships taken for credit at Lake Forest College are off-campus learning experiences integrated into the academic program. Although the specific nature of internship experiences will vary, internships should clarify for students the relationship between traditional liberal arts study and the use or expansion of knowledge in nonacademic settings. Students are eligible to apply for an internship following the completion of two years of course work. Under the internship program, students work for academic credit in businesses, social and governmental agencies, and other institutions both in the Chicago area and elsewhere during either semester of the academic year and during the summer term. A description of the program, Guidelines to Internships and Practicums, is available from the Registrar’s Office.
Most internships and practicums have been developed under the auspices of the departments of economics and business and politics. The departments of psychology, sociology and anthropology, art, mathematics and computer science, biology, chemistry, history, English, philosophy, and theater have also participated significantly in the internship program. Students interested in pursuing an internship should contact the departmental internship liaison of the pertinent department and the director of college internships to begin the application process. Each academic department may establish its own application deadline. In order to have a summer internship, a student must submit a preliminary application to the director of summer internships no later than the Friday one week prior to commencement.
Students may count up to 3 internship credits toward graduation, not including foreign internship credit. A maximum of 2 credits will be awarded for each internship. Internships will count toward the maximum of 15 credits allowed in any discipline. These courses are graded only on a Credit/D/Fail basis. In order to participate in an internship, a student must have a C average in all prerequisite courses and may not be on academic probation.
In recent years, students have worked and studied for the Chicago Historical Society, Northern Illinois Police Crime Lab, New England Financial, Chicago Medical School, Illinois Attorney General, Obama Senate Campaign, Edelman Communications, Chicago Board of Education, Chicago City Council, Chicago Blackhawks, Victory Gardens Theater, International Latino Cultural Center, UBS PaineWebber, Children’s Memorial Hospital, Morgan Stanley, NBC 5 Chicago, and the Art Institute of Chicago, among many other organizations.
Program Leaves
A student may enroll during the fall or spring semester for one course at another institution while remaining registered for three courses at Lake Forest for that term. If approved by the student’s advisor, the program must be checked with the registrar to assure transferability of the work. If the work is satisfactorily completed with a grade of C- or better in each course, and the credits are transferred to Lake Forest College, the student will be reimbursed for the per-course cost of the tuition at the other institution up to the per-course cost of tuition at Lake Forest College for the same period.
Cooperation with American University: The Washington Semester Program
The current program advisor is listed on MyForester under Governance.
For qualified junior and senior students, this program is offered in cooperation with American University in Washington, D.C. The program, available in either fall or spring, provides an opportunity to learn from Washington’s many resources, including the nation’s policy makers. Washington Semester students earn a full semester of credit by participating in an internship (two credits), writing a research paper or taking an elective course (one credit), and attending a seminar in one of these areas (one credit): national government, public law, economic policy, foreign policy, international business and trade, international environment and development, journalism, justice, museum studies and the arts, and peace and conflict resolution. Internship placements are with Congress, executive-branch agencies, the media, interest groups, research organizations, or museums. Students have seminars with government officials and political party leaders and attend sessions of Congress and committee hearings.
Because the program is intended to enhance students’ college education, participating in it and selecting among its options must make sense within a student’s concrete educational objectives. Since most of the work takes place outside of the classroom, applicants must demonstrate a high ability to perform consistently and responsibly in situations that demand that they work on their own initiative. Applications must be processed through the Office of Off-Campus Programs and must be endorsed by the Off-Campus Consortium Committee in order for credit to be earned. Initial and final deadlines apply. For purposes of graduation requirements, academic probation, and academic suspension, the Washington Semester Program counts as transfer credit and does not count toward the GPA.
DEADLINES:
November 15 of the year prior to participation: Eligibility documents, available from and submitted to the Director of Off-Campus Programs.
February 1 of year prior to participation: for eligible students, completed program application.
ACM Programs in the United States
Current program advisors are listed on MyForester under Governance.
These programs are intended to enhance the collegiate experience and should make sense in terms of students’ overall educational objectives. Because most are conducted outside the traditional classroom format, applicants must demonstrate an ability to perform consistently and responsibly in situations demanding that they work on their own initiative. Students on academic probation normally are ineligible, and students who have displayed a pattern of disregard for College regulations may be ineligible.
Each ACM program is represented by an on-campus faculty advisor. A list of these advisors is available on MyForester under Governance and also from the Director of Off-Campus Programs. Deadlines apply. Prior to actual program application, students must complete initial documents to confirm eligibility for off-campus study. Eligible students may proceed with specific program applications. Procedures and regulations for off-campus study are available on the College web page (Academics to Off-Campus Study). All ACM program applicants must be endorsed by the Off-Campus Consortium Committee. Since these programs are intended to complement on-campus programs, the College committee reserves the right to limit their availability in order to maintain the integrity of on-campus programs. Funding restrictions also apply. Although rising sophomores may be eligible to apply, qualified juniors and first-semester seniors will receive priority in the selection process.
For purposes of graduation requirements, academic probation, and academic suspension, ACM credit counts as Lake Forest College credit.
Chicago Programs:
All three programs include a city-centered core course, a choice of academically demanding seminars, independent work in a selected field, and an internship. Credit: 16 semester hours.
Business, Entrepreneurship and Society
An early trading center, Chicago became a manufacturing powerhouse and the economic Capital of the Midwest. But unlike other “Rust Belt” cities, Chicago has weathered (for the most part) the de-industrialization of the nation’s economy and is a vital center for national and international business, finance, advertising, and technology. All this makes the city a great place to explore the intersection between liberal arts education and the economic, social, and strategic forces that shape world businesses.
Chicago Arts
Students in Chicago Arts explore and participate in the world of urban arts, in a city where the arts are especially vibrant and fluid. Students will attend events in a variety of disciplines, meeting and net-working with professional artists. Chicago Arts is open to students from any academic major with an interest in any arts discipline—performance, literature and journalism, visual arts, media and new media, audio, commercial art, communication—who are ready to engage Chicago’s art world while interrogating and expanding their own notions of art and creativity.
Urban Studies
Engaging the social and political context of the urban community has been at the core of the urban studies program since 1969. Students learn about how communities and groups negotiate for power and resources and understand how public officials, community leaders, and residents of the city shape public policy. Students become skilled in the language and actions of social change.
Newberry Library in the Humanities
Students in the Newberry Seminar do advanced independent research at one of the world’s great research libraries. They join ACM and GLCA faculty members in close reading and discussion centered on a common theme, and then write a major paper on a topic of their choice, using the Newberry Library’s rich collections of primary documents. The fall seminar runs for a full semester; the spring seminars are month-long. Students live in Chicago apartments and take advantage of the city’s rich resources. The Newberry Seminar is for students looking for an academic challenge, interested in a chance to do independent work, and possibly considering graduate school. The seminar is administered by ACM and recognized by the Great Lakes Colleges Association, Inc. Length of program: late August to early December (fall seminar), one month (January to May short-term seminars). Enrollment: 15 to 25 students (fall seminar), 8 to 15 students (short-term seminars), Eligibility: Exceptionally qualified juniors, and seniors. Credit: 16 semester hours (fall seminar); equivalent of one course (short-term seminars).
Oak Ridge Science Semester
The Oak Ridge Science Semester is designed to enable qualified undergraduates to study and conduct research in a prestigious and challenging scientific environment. As members of a research team working at the frontiers of knowledge, participants engage in long-range investigations using the facilities of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) near Knoxville, Tennessee. The majority of a student’s time is spent in research with an advisor specializing in biology, engineering, mathematics, or the physical or social sciences. Students also participate in an interdisciplinary seminar designed to broaden their exposure to developments in their major field and related disciplines. In addition, each student chooses an elective from a variety of advanced courses. The academic program is enriched in informal ways by guest speakers, departmental colloquia, and the special interests and expertise of the ORNL staff. Administered by Denison University, the Oak Ridge Science Semester is recognized by both ACM and GLCA. Length of program: August to December. Enrollment: 20 students. Eligibility: Juniors and seniors in biology, chemistry, physics, geology, mathematics, or social sciences. Credit: 16 semester hours.
Deadlines for all ACM programs (fall and spring):
November 15 of the year prior to participation: Eligibility documents, available from and submitted to the Director of Off-Campus Programs.
February 1* of year prior to participation: for eligible students, completed program application, downloadable through a link to the ACM web page. These applications will be submitted to the Lake Forest College Consortium Committee. Endorsed applications will be forwarded to the ACM Chicago office, and an ACM committee will make the final selection of program participants.
*Japan Study application is due in early January.
Study Abroad
Lake Forest College believes deeply in the value of study abroad, and many of its students pursue such study, especially during the junior year.
The College has several study-abroad programs of its own. The oldest of these permits students to spend half a semester in Greece after a period of study on campus. Lake Forest College also sponsors an International Internship/ Study-Abroad Program in Paris, France, and a China Semester Program for Asian Studies—with internship option—hosted at Peking University in Beijing, China. The College also offers a course-related spring-break study tour to Costa Rica for students enrolled in Biology 380 Tropical Ecology and Conservation. Additionally, the spring course Asian Studies 274 (May China) includes a 3-week China travel component. This course requires special application and submission of relevant off-campus study documents.
The Associated Colleges of the Midwest, a consortium of 13 distinguished liberal arts colleges to which Lake Forest College belongs, operates a rich array of study-abroad programs on four continents for which Lake Forest students are eligible to be considered.
With prior permission of the Academic Appeals Board, students may also receive academic credit for study-abroad programs sponsored by other accredited institutions. For information about high quality non-Lake Forest programs, see the College web page (Academics to Off-Campus Study) and contact the Director of Off-Campus Programs, Ms. Jan Miller. Since application deadlines begin as early as one full year prior to time of proposed study, students interested in study abroad should begin research and contact the Director of Off-Campus Programs as soon as possible.
Although most students go abroad for a single semester, a student may petition the Academic Appeals Board for permission to spend an entire junior year abroad. The board may grant such an appeal when the proposed program provides significant enhancement of the student’s academic program and meets each of the following conditions: (1) It must be consistent with a liberal arts education; (2) it must provide academic opportunities clearly unavailable at the College; and (3) there must be good reason for thinking that the educational benefits will be significantly enhanced by a two-semester duration. Students must meet all campus deadlines for application, usually no later than the beginning of the spring term of the year preceding their proposed study.
Upon approval by the Off-Campus Consortium Committee, Lake Forest College enters into a limited number of consortium agreements with selected institutions in order to make it possible for qualified students on financial aid to retain their aid while studying off-campus. Students are urged to review the financial aid section of off-campus study information available on the College web page and to consult the Director of Off-Campus Programs. While studying abroad, students are required to carry health insurance that includes evacuation and repatriation coverage. A plan is available through the College. The application deadline for consortium requests is November 15.
For the purposes of graduation requirements, academic probation, and academic suspension, transfer credits received through Lake Forest College-approved consortium agreements do not count toward the GPA.
Study-abroad programs meet the GEC breadth requirements when applicable and the GEC Cultural Diversity Requirements.
Lake Forest College Programs Abroad
Programs offered by Lake Forest College are planned and directed by members of the College faculty. Each program runs one semester and credit is awarded by the College.
A student becomes a participant in one of these programs on acceptance by the department or supervisory committee pertinent to the particular program and with the concurrence of the dean of the faculty. Principal considerations used in determining admissibility to a program include evidence of academic motivation and promise of satisfactory academic work; usually an average of B- (2.67 GPA) or better; reason to believe that the student will benefit from the program; and the applicant’s major interest and reason given for wanting to join the program. Students on academic probation are normally ineligible and students who have displayed a pattern of disregard for College regulations may be ineligible.
Each applicant must submit the eligibility documents required of all off-campus study participants. Eligible students may proceed with the program application, available with instructions on MyForester. Other post-application documents may include parental and student waivers, personal information and medical report, emergency authorization, and responsibility acknowledgment. All parts of the application are due by the deadline indicated on the form. No applicant will be accepted into a program until all of the conditions are met. Completed applications will be evaluated as they come in; decisions on late applications will therefore be made last. If the group of applicants is larger than the number who can be admitted, preference will be given to majors and juniors and seniors. First-year students and last-term seniors are ineligible. (Exceptions must be approved by the Academic Appeals Board.)
Students accepted into a Lake Forest College off-campus program may be required to confirm their acceptance by making a nonrefundable deposit.
Cost of participating in a program includes tuition at the regular Lake Forest College rate; travel to and from the location of the program; an excursion fee for field trips when applicable; lodging and meals; and books and incidental expenses, including individual travel.
International Internship/Study-Abroad Program in Paris, France – fall semester
Program committee members for the current year are listed on MyForester under Governance.
The Paris program aims to provide the student with in-depth exposure to French society and culture through a combination of work experience and classroom instruction. The program is scheduled for the fall semester each year pending sufficient enrollment. Students must be at the junior or senior level, demonstrate French language proficiency, and have a solid academic background in their major field(s). Students are normally expected to have a B- average (2.67 GPA). The 15-week program is composed of three parts: (1) a two-course-credit internship in a for-profit or not-for-profit organization or government agency (examples of past internships include management, marketing, finance, advertising, museology, education, personnel, public relations, government, and research); (2) a one-course-credit study of French language; and (3) a one-course-credit seminar in French society and culture. To enhance their exposure to another culture and develop fluency in French, students will normally live in French homes.
DEADLINES:
November 15: Eligibility documents.
February 1: Completed program application.
Further information about procedures and forms is available here.
The Beijing Semester Program of Asian Studies, Beijing, China – fall or spring semester
Program committee members for the current year are listed on MyForester under Governance.
The Beijing Semester Program of Asian Studies is sponsored by Lake Forest College and hosted by Peking University in Beijing, China, pending sufficient enrollment. It aims to expose students to Chinese language, culture, history, religion, economy, politics, and society through a combination of classroom instruction and optional internship. Enrollment in the program may be for either fall or spring semester. Students should be at the junior or senior level, demonstrate some Chinese language ability, and have a solid academic background in their major field(s) of study. Students are normally expected to have a B- average (2.67 GPA). The program is most suitable for those who are seriously interested in Asian Studies, East Asian languages, and international relations. Successful completion of this program earns Lake Forest College credit.
DEADLINES (fall OR spring):
November 15: Eligibility documents.
February 1: Completed program application.
Program in Greece – spring semester
Program committee members for the current year are listed on MyForester under Governance.
Since 1970, the College has offered an interdisciplinary humanities program in Greece designed to provide sophomore and junior students, regardless of major, with an opportunity to live and study in a foreign culture.
The information below reflects recent programs. Travel plans are subject to change, for logistical and financial reasons as well as in response to local conditions.
Offered in the spring, pending sufficient enrollment, the program in Greece incorporates three sequential four-week courses that use historical and archeological sites and museums as classrooms to study the ancient Aegean world from the Minoan to the Byzantine periods. A prerequisite course (Greek Civilizations 201) is offered in January and February prior to the on-site courses. Thus students can earn up to four credits. To be eligible for acceptance in the program, students must have at least sophomore standing, good academic records (normally B- or better), and references and have completed Greek Civilizations 201 or at least two courses in the combination of art history and ancient history or classical literature.
Read about the Greek Civilization courses.
DEADLINES:
April 1: Eligibility documents.
May 1: Completed program application.
If spaces are still available after this regular admissions, students may submit applications by the final admission deadline of October 15. Further information about procedures and forms is available here.
Tropical Ecology and Conservation: 380
(Offered in alternate years. Not offered in 2007-2008)
The Biology Department will be offering a tropical ecology and conservation course in the spring that includes a visit to a field site in the tropics during spring break.
In this course we will survey basic ecological dynamics and concepts characteristic of tropical terrestrial ecosystems, and will also examine the complex socio-political, economic, and biological issues associated with the major threats to these ecosystems. The course will revolve around a required spring break trip to a field site in the tropics (e.g., Costa Rica) at which research projects will be conducted. Class periods will consist of discussions and lectures with associated readings and short written assignments. Lab will center on the spring break trip, emphasizing study design and preparation for field projects, and examination of collected specimens/data analysis afterward. Students will prepare posters and oral presentations of field projects at the end of the semester. Application and additional fee required to cover expenses associated with field trip. Prerequisite: Biology 220. (Cross-listed as Environmental Studies 380 and Latin American Studies 381.)
Asian Studies (May China) — spring semester
274 Topics in Asian Studies: Global Engagement in Contemporary China
Spring semester on campus, with a three-week trip to China in May.
This course centers on East Asian civilization as a form of inquiry and aims to develop understanding of the complexity of human affairs by focusing on contemporary China. It will provide students with exposure to Chinese culture, history, religion, society, language, and economy through a combination of classroom instruction and field experience in China. The spring course consists of prerequisite on-campus study, which prepares students for their on-site experience, a three-week trip to China, beginning in mid-May. Students benefit not only from studying the concept of curricular cultural diversity on campus, but also from the opportunity to examine historical and archeological sites first-hand. They also study the latest development of China’s economic reform, thereby deepening their knowledge of a multiplicity of different cultural and political systems. This course is most suitable for those who are seriously interested in Asian Studies, East Asian languages, and international relations. Students intending to enroll in this course must consult with the chair of Asian Studies for information on applying to register for this course. They must also submit documents required of all off-campus study participants.
DEADLINES:
April 1: Eligibility documents.
May 1: Completed program application.
If spaces are still available after this regular admissions, students may submit applications by the final admission deadline of October 15. Further information about procedures and forms is available here.
The Mexican-American Border
As the only place where the third world and first world touch, the Mexican American border is unique. This course will focus on the border and how its unique location in the world has created a culture, language, politics, religion and economy that reflect the interdependence between these two neighboring countries. The course will begin with the history of the border from the Gadsden Purchase in 1854 to the passage of NAFTA in 2004 and then examine the impact of free trade on Mexico. The course will explore how people (immigration – both legal and illegal), resources (oil, workers), consumer products (household appliances, food, music, and art), environmental waste (toxic waste, water and air pollution) and technology (outsourcing) cross borders as globalization impacts both Mexicans and Americans. The course involves a three week stay along the border in May. Pre-requisites: Economics 110 and Spanish 112 or its equivalent. (Cross-listed as Business 280, International Relations 280, Latin American Studies 280, and Spanish 201. Meets GEC Cultural Diversity Requirement.)
DEADLINES:
May 1: Stage I Eligibility documents.
November 15: Stage 2 documents and program application
The Granada Semester Internship Program
The Granada Semester Internship Program, sponsored by Lake Forest College in conjunction with IES (International Education of Students), aims to provide students with an in-depth exposure to Spanish society and culture through a combination of classroom instruction and work experience. It is conducted during the 15-week fall semester from early September to mid-December. The curriculum takes advantage of its location in Andalusia with such courses as: Islamic Art and Architecture of Spain; Images of Women in Mediterranean Film; and Lorca and the Andalusian Literary Tradition – all of which are taught in Spanish. The students will enjoy the Northern African influence in Southern Spain, as well as the rich cultural presence of Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Granada is also the home of the flamenco dance and boasts the magnificent palaces of the Alhambra and quaint medieval streets.
ACM Programs Abroad
Lake Forest College is a member of the Associated Colleges of the Midwest (ACM), a consortium of 13 distinguished colleges in five states: Beloit, Carleton, Coe, Colorado, Cornell, Grinnell, Knox, Lake Forest, Lawrence, Macalester, Monmouth, Ripon, AND St. Olaf. By working together, these colleges have greatly expanded the study-abroad opportunities available to their students. Most Lake Forest students who participate in these programs do so during their junior year.
ACM programs are intended to enhance the collegiate experience and should make sense in terms of students’ overall educational objectives. Because most are conducted outside the traditional classroom format, applicants must demonstrate an ability to perform consistently and responsibly in situations demanding self-motivation and initiative. Students on academic probation normally are ineligible, and students who have displayed a pattern of disregard for College regulations may be ineligible.
Each ACM program is represented by an on-campus faculty advisor. A list of these advisors is available on MyForester under Governance.
DEADLINES FOR ALL ACM PROGRAMS (fall and spring):
Novemver 15 of the year prior to participation: Eligibility documents, available from and submitted to the Director of Off-Campus Programs.
February 1* of the year prior to participation: for eligible students, completed program application, downloadable through a link to the ACM web page. These applications will be submitted to the Lake Forest College Consortium Committee. Endorsed applications will be forwarded to the ACM Chicago office, and an ACM committee will make the final selection of program participants.
*NB: THE DEADLINE FOR JAPAN STUDY IS EARLY JANUARY
Since these programs are intended to complement on-campus programs, the College committee reserves the right to limit their availability in order to maintain the integrity of on-campus programs. Although rising sophomores may be eligible to apply, qualified juniors and first-semester seniors will receive priority in the selection process. Funding restrictions also apply. For purposes of graduation requirements, academic probation, and academic suspension, ACM credit counts as Lake Forest College credit.
Botswana: Culture and Society in Africa
The program is designed for students interested in Africa, or in political development, social change and cultural identity in the developing world. The program is centered at the University of Botswana in Gaborone, the nation’s capital, largest city, and center of its economic and political life. Students participate in all four components of the academic program: Setswana language course, an elective at the University of Botswana, the Program Director’s course, and an Independent study project. Field trips, both local and around the country, are an integral part of the academic program. Credit: 16 semester hours.
Costa Rica: Studies in Latin American Culture and Society
Studies in Latin American Culture and Society (fall only) is an interdisciplinary program for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of life in Latin America and wishing to develop fluency in Spanish. This program, which focuses on the humanities and social sciences, is designed to take full advantage of its Costa Rican setting. Language study is stressed as the key to understanding the culture. Course work in language, literature, geography, anthropology, politics, and culture enables students to develop insights which are reinforced by field trips and two weeks of field work in rural areas. In San José and its environs, students live with families both to improve their language ability and to enjoy personal involvement in the daily life of a Latin American community. Length of program: late August to December. Enrollment: 25 to 30 students. Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors, with at least two years of college-level Spanish or the equivalent. Credit: 16 semester hours.
Costa Rica: Tropical Field Research
The Tropical Field Research Program (spring only) is designed for advanced work in all disciplines. Costa Rica supports an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life and provides rich research opportunities for students of tropical biology and ecology. An equally broad range of research topics is available for students of anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, geology, history, political science, literature, fine arts, and sociology. Students prepare for their research during a month-long orientation which includes intensive language training and a review of field work methodology. Their field study may be integrated with an ongoing project or undertaken independently under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Length of program: late January to May. Enrollment: 24 to 27 students. Eligibility: Juniors and seniors with prior course work in the discipline in which they propose to do research, plus at least one year of college Spanish (two years are strongly recommended). Credit: 16 semester hours
Florence
The Florence Program provides an excellent opportunity to study Renaissance painting, sculpture, architecture, history, and literature for students interested in art, history, Romance languages, and the humanities. Italian language instruction, a studio art course, and courses providing a broad perspective on Italian contributions to world civilization facilitate the study of Florentine artistic and cultural heritage. Visits to museums and galleries, short field trips to other cities throughout Italy, and discussions with local scholars supplement this course work. Staying with Italian host families enriches participants’ awareness of modern Italian life as well as the academic study of Italian Renaissance culture. Length of program: late August to December. Enrollment: 25 to 30 students. Eligibility: Juniors and seniors. Prior Italian language recommended. Credit: 16 semester hours or the equivalent.
India Studies
The Indian subcontinent provides a rich and complex background for the study of a non-Western civilization. India Studies program participants live with Indian host families in Pune, a city that is at once both traditional and highly industrialized. This offers students an excellent opportunity to observe the interaction of tradition and modernity that characterizes contemporary India. While there, students enroll at Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth for an academic session, where they have language instruction, choose four other courses, and complete their independent study projects. Additionally, students enjoy field trips, which can include nearby cultural sites such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves. A variety of extracurricular activities, such as dance, yoga, weaving, and batik, can be arranged. Length of program: mid-July to mid-December. Enrollment: 20 students. Eligibility: Any currently enrolled student may apply, though priority is given to rising juniors or seniors. Credit: Equivalent to one extended semester of work on the home campus (18 credits).
Japan Study
Students study at Waseda University’s School of International Liberal Studies in Tokyo after a brief orientation providing intensive language practice and cultural discussions. In addition to required language study, electives may be chosen from a wide range of Asian Studies courses taught in English. A family living experience in Tokyo provides an informal education in Japanese culture and is in many ways the dominant feature of the program, offering total immersion in the Japanese way of life. The program is for a full year of study and includes a month-long cultural practicum or internship in another region of Japan, usually in February or March. Administered by Earlham College, Japan Study is recognized by both ACM and GLCA. Length of program: early-September to late June (academic year). Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA. No Japanese language study is required for acceptance, but at least one semester or term of Japanese must be completed before departure. Credit: Equal to an equivalent period on the home campus. NB: THE JAPAN STUDY APPLICATION IS DUE IN EARLY JANUARY.
London and Florence: Arts in Context
The London and Florence Program compares the artistic achievements of two historically prominent cities. Participants study the historical and political context of art, architecture, literature, and theater as well as Italian language. Visits to museums, galleries, theaters, short trips to other areas of England and Italy, and discussions with local scholars supplement this course work. Students spend eight weeks in each city and enjoy a week-long mid-semester break. An optional intensive course in Italian language is offered every January in Florence (3 semester credits). For Lake Forest College students, the extra cost of this course overload is approximately one-ninth of the Lake Forest College tuition. This fee is the responsibility of the participant. The policy that allows students on the Dean’s List to take a fifth course without additional charges does not apply to ACM courses. Length of program: late January to May. Enrollment: 50 students (25 begin in London, 25 in Florence). Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Credit: 16 semester hours.
Tanzania: Studies in Human Evolution and Ecology
The Tanzania program offers undergraduates a unique opportunity to conduct field work in some of the world’s greatest paleoanthropological and ecological sites. Students divide their time between the University of Dar es Salaam and the Northern Region of Tanzania. At the University they take courses in intensive Swahili, human evolution, and the ecology of the Maasai Ecosystem while developing a field project. For the next six weeks, students live in field camps and pursue individual field projects in the Tarangire/Ngorongoro area before returning to the University for final work on their projects. The program is both physically and academically demanding. Length of program: late July to mid-December. Enrollment: 20 students. Eligibility: Juniors and seniors. Credit: 16 semester hours or the equivalent.