The First-year Focus Course (FFC) is a key element of Chapman University's General Education program. FFC courses focus on critical engagement, exploration and communication related to complex issues rather than on mastering a body of material. The goal is to guide students towards becoming self-motivated, independent learners who can work independently and collaboratively to frame issues and questions that have engaged the intellectual interests of historians, philosophers, fine arts, and media critics, scientists, economists and political theorists over the centuries.
FFC is taught by faculty who are committed to supporting students in their transition from high school to university-level critical inquiry. Field trips, guest speakers, collaborative research, multimedia projects and active engagement in class activities are important elements of each course.
All first-year students enroll in an FFC section during their first year at Chapman, and are encouraged to do so in their first semester. Transfer students who have not earned 24 credits at a college or university (excluding dual enrollment and testing credit) prior to starting Chapman are also required to enroll in an FFC course within their first semester.
