Objectives & Outcomes
The first year at RPI is an opportunity to explore new ideas, ask meaningful questions, and engage with complex issues from a variety of perspectives. To support this experience, the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) offers HASS Inquiry (INQR) courses as part of the HASS Core Curriculum.
All first-year students are required to complete a HASS Inquiry course. These courses are designed to broaden cultural understanding, encourage critical thinking, and help students examine issues from multiple perspectives while exploring contemporary questions and real-world challenges.
Taught in small, seminar-style settings, HASS Inquiry courses emphasize active participation and meaningful conversations with faculty and classmates. Many INQR courses also introduce themes and topics connected to Integrative Pathways, providing an opportunity to explore areas of interest while beginning progress toward the HASS Core.
What These Courses Focus On
Our teaching approach is built around active learning and helping you better understand yourself and the world. Key focus areas include:
- Critical Thinking – learning to analyze and evaluate ideas deeply
- Writing and Communication – expressing ideas clearly and confidently
- Personal Instruction – meaningful interaction with instructors
- Teamwork – collaborating and learning from peers
- Community Building – understanding your role in the broader community
- Diversity & Inclusion – appreciating different perspectives
- Instructional Technology – using tools that support learning
Guidelines & Policies
- You must complete a HASS Inquiry course during your first two semesters at RPI.
- INQR courses are only for first‑year students. Instructors cannot override this restriction for upper‑class students.
- First‑year transfer students are also required to take a HASS Inquiry course. When you register for your first semester, be sure to work with your Academic Advisor to add this course to your schedule.
Commonly Asked Questions
No. Your HASS Inquiry course does not need to apply to your Pathway.
The HASS Inquiry course is part of the HASS Core, and you may satisfy this requirement within -OR- outside of a chosen Pathway. Pay close attention to the requirements outlined in your Cohort's Catalog year. Some Pathways require an intro-level course, which may be a HASS Inquiry Course.
Transfer Students, you have two additional Pathway options.
You cannot Pass/No Credit your HI course if...
- It is part of your Integrative Pathway, or...
- If it will be used to fulfill your HASS Communication Intensive Requirement.
If your HASS Inquiry course will not be used to fulfill your Pathway or CI requirements, then yes, you may apply PNC to your HASS Inquiry. Please keep in mind that most HASS Inquiry courses are Communication Intensive.
No. Similar to the Communication Intensive requirement, the HASS Inquiry requirement cannot be fulfilled by transfer courses, including AP or IB credits. It must be taken at RPI.
'Attributes' are Institute Requirements, which means they cannot be transferred to RPI. For example, some students may look to transfer Principles of Economics (ECON-1200) with their AP credits. As it is cross-listed as INQR-1200 it would seem to fulfill the HI requirement. It will not as it does not transfer with any course attributes. ECON-1200 as a transferred course may still be applied to relevant Pathways, Minors, and the HASS Core.
INQR 1200. Students in their sophomore, junior, or senior year will complete their HASS Inquiry requirements by taking Principles of Economics (INQR-1200).
Transfer Students who enroll as sophomores/juniors are not required to take a HASS Inquiry course.
Yes! Learn more about HASS Inquiry and your HASS Core by visiting the Core Curriculum in the Catalog.
Understanding HASS Inquiry & Pathways
Your HASS Inquiry course might be the first class in a three‑course Integrative Pathway - but it doesn’t have to be. Many first‑year students start with one Pathway in mind and then discover something completely new that interests them. That’s a normal (and exciting!) part of exploring during your first year.
Let your Inquiry course open your mind and help you figure out what you enjoy. If you end up choosing a different Pathway later, you may need a couple of extra classes to complete it, and that’s totally okay - this flexibility is built into the system.
Just remember to check your official Catalog for your Pathway requirements and update your Plan of Study as your interests grow and change. Your Academic Advisor is always there to help!
HASS Inquiry Courses and Descriptions
Still have questions about the HASS Core?
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 for remote drop-ins (will be reviewed between 2 and 4 pm)
- Or, visit us in person! Office Hours and Location
Can’t Make Our Weekly Drop-Ins?
No problem! You’re welcome to email us at HASSHub@rpi.edu
- Please allow 2–3 business days for a response.
- Depending on your question, we may still recommend meeting with one of our advisors during a drop-in or scheduling an appointment for more personalized support.
