Courses That Teach Skills for Success at U-M

Are you looking for a great class that can also teach you skills to be successful at U-M? Look no further than the Applied Liberal Arts (ALA) courses. ALA courses are intended to allow students to develop and hone a range of essential skills for success at U-M and for personal and professional growth. The full list of ALA courses can be found on the LSA Course Guide website (just select "LSA: Applied Liberal Arts" from the "Subject" dropdown menu), but the courses listed below are especially useful for new transfer students:


ALA 230: STEM Transitions: Strategies for STEM Success

This course is for students who have transferred to U-M and are planning to major in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) field. Our aim is to help students successfully transition in their STEM classes and to the greater university community. We will examine the key differences between how STEM classes are taught here as compared to your previous school; adapt and expand your skills toolbox; learn how to build successful relationships with UM faculty and staff; and set goals for your future success. The class will be focused on active and engaged discussions of assigned readings. Assignments will consist of weekly journals, class presentation, and a short final paper. This course is strongly encouraged for any new transfers in the STEM fields.

ALA 105: Digital Research: Critical Concepts & Strategies

This course is for any students who would like to learn improve their library research strategies. It is especially helpful for students who may be new to utilizing the University of Michigan Library. This one credit mini-course meets for 2 hours a week for 7 weeks. There is also a completely online section where you can complete course materials anytime convenient for you each week. This course is open to all undergraduates. Watch our video!

In ALA 105, you will learn:

  • Online search strategies and research tips to save time
  • Critical evaluation techniques
  • How to find the best evidence and sources for your projects

Additional ALA courses on Library skills are also available. For more information, go to: https://www.lib.umich.edu/instruction-and-workshops/library-courses

ALA 270: Live Well in College & Beyond

This class will focus on exploring the eight dimensions of personal well-being through a lens of positive psychology, motivation, and social justice. Students will explore the ways that well-being is dynamic and interdependent. The course will look at strategies to integrate health and wellness into the definition of success, build resilience to manage the fluctuations of life, make thoughtful choices that reduce harms and promote well-being, and find meaning and purpose. New transfer students may find this class beneficial as you make the transition to the University of Michigan's academic and social environment.