As part of their B.S. degree program, all Rensselaer undergraduates are required to complete two Core Curriculums; 1) the Science Core, and 2) the HASS Core. More information on both can be found in the RPI Catalog.
Objectives of the HASS Core:
- Provide “big picture” as well as community-scale perspective, advancing students’ understanding of how the contemporary, globalized world works, and of the positioning and perspectives of different social groups.
- Provide both a historical perspective and a sense of how change has been and can be brought about.
- Introduce, expose, and cultivate diverse communication skills and critical perspectives on communication, encouraging students to continually evaluate rhetorical forms and styles of argument, supporting data, and media representations.
- Develop a critical perspective and awareness.
HASS Core Requirements:
Click the links below for more information on each specific requirement.
- Inquiry Course (INQR) | Complete within the first two semesters
- Communication Intensive HASS Course | Complete within the first three semesters
- Integrative Pathway (12 credits) | Recommended to complete before your final semester
- 4000-Level HASS Course (4 credits)
- 20 to 24 Credits depending on your major (see below)
Restrictions:
- A maximum of 12 credits at the 1000-level can be counted toward the HASS core.
- A maximum of 8 AP or transfer credits can be counted toward the HASS core.
- A maximum of 8 credits can be designated as P/NC.
Each School at RPI has varying requirements to complete the HASS Core. For this reason, we encourage you first to review the following school-specific information and to meet with your assigned Academic Advisor before connecting with the HASS Hub. Select your School below for your major’s specific requirements:
- Lally School of Management | 24 Credits
- School of Architecture | 20 Credits
- School of Engineering | 20 Credits
- School of HASS | 24 Credits
- School of Science | 24 Credits
Still have questions about the HASS Core?
Below is a general HASS Core worksheet that will allow you to map out your HASS Requirements for any RPI major. Ensure you follow the guidelines specific to your school/major.
- Make sure you click all the links in the “HASS Core Requirements” above for specific guidelines
- Discover how one course can meet multiple requirements
Use this general worksheet to map out your HASS Requirements.
Drop-ins outside of these hours are accommodated when possible, but not guaranteed.
- 5-to-10-minute questions
- Perfect for questions about minors, Pathways, and/or support with forms
- Sign-up Sheet (will be reviewed between 2 and 4 pm weekdays)
If you cannot attend our weekly drop-ins, you are welcome to email us. Please allow 2 to 3 business days for a response. We may still recommend meeting with one of our Advisors in a drop-in or meeting depending on the context of your question. HASSinfo@rpi.edu