UMass Amherst

The Dean's Book Course and General Education "I" Credit

In 2004, the Dean's Book Course was granted Gen Ed "I" (Interdisciplinary) designation by the Faculty Senate.

To receive Gen Ed "I" credit, students must complete all three parts of the Dean's Book Course---Honors 191D, 291D and 391D, and receive a passing letter grade in all three parts. This is distinct from Dean's Book Course counting toward honors graduation requirements in that to receive honors credit students must receive a grade of "B" or better in all three parts.

This approval became effective in Spring 2004, and applies to all students who complete the third and final part of the Dean's Book Course in or after Spring 2004 through Honors 391D, 391G, 391S, or 391V.

Please note that this addition of Gen Ed "I" to the Dean's Book Course sequence does not change the Commonwealth College honors course requirements substantively, but rather is of benefit to you in meeting University general education requirements. The eight-course Commonwealth College curriculum remains:

  1. Honors College Writing Course (Gen Ed "CW," equivalent, or "CW" exemption)
  2. Honors Gen Ed Course (any designation: AL, AT, BS, HS, PS, R1, R2, SB, I, SI)
  3. Honors Gen Ed Course that carries an "I" (or the newly created "IS")
  4. Dean's Book Sequence (that now carries an "I")
  5. Honors Course at any level
  6. Honors Course at the 300-level or higher
  7. and 8. Capstone Experience of six or more credits on a single sustained effort, e.g., an honors thesis, and honors project, or an approved capstone course sequence.