What are learning communities?
A learning community is a small group of first-year students who take classes together and share some common interests. Arts and Science learning communities are designed to ease the transition into university by providing our first-year students with extra opportunities to make friends, study and explore ideas together, and work together to develop the academic and personal skills to succeed.
Learning communities are what a university education is all about—students and faculty from many different backgrounds come together to explore big ideas and a wide range of perspectives on the world. Through this experience, students grow personally as they advance intellectually, and make lifelong friendships.
Arts and Science learning communities have three main goals:
- Building community: Learning communities allow first-year students to begin university surrounded by students who have the same interests and goals. Through learning communities, students build connections to people and places across campus that will help support them on their academic journey.
- Making connections and exploring careers: University is a great place to come and improve what you know, but who you know counts too. Learning communities will help introduce students to programs and colleges across campus that are related to their interests and connect them to professionals who turned similar interests into exciting careers.
- Enriching academics: University is a whole different ballgame than high school. Learning communities will connect peer mentors—our team of expert learners—to first-year students to help them build on and improve their academic skills to successfully navigate their way through the first year.
Arts and Science learning communities
The College of Arts and Science is the largest and most diverse college at the University of Saskatchewan. To meet the different needs of our first-year learners, we offer the following Arts and Science learning community programs:
- First Year Learning Experience (FLEX)
- Indigenous Student Achievement Pathways - ISAP
- Level-UP Learning Communities – Second Year LCs
- University of Saskatchewan Transition Entrance Program - USTEP
96% of FLEX students would recommend FLEX Learning Communities to a sibling or friend.
SOURCE: 2021-22 FLEX STUDENT SURVEY
2023 - 2024 FLEX LC Offerings
Learning Communities sign-up for 2023-24 is closed. If you would like to sign-up for an LC hour, please e-mail aslc@usask.ca.
LC-FLEX 01 -
Exploring Arts & Science 1
Psychology 120 – Biology 121 – English 114
Not sure what you want to major in? Lucky you! You have a whole world of possibilities to explore, and this Learning Community will help you start your journey. Joining this LC is an excellent way to become exposed to a variety of Arts and Science subjects in a short amount of time. Psychology 120 will help familiarize you with the biological and cognitive areas of psychology. Biology is the science that will advance in your understanding of life processes, ranging from genome discoveries to the conservation of biodiversity. In addition, Biology 121 will give you broad skills in scientific laboratory work. English 114 will help you develop critical reading, writing, and thinking skills through the analysis of a variety of literature focused on historical and contemporary culture. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree. This LC is a great choice if you are looking to explore your interests, sample popular first year classes, and meet degree requirements before you have decided on a degree path. Students interested in applying to the College of Nursing are encouraged to register for one of FLEX 10 or 11.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 02 –
Exploring Arts & Science 2
Health Studies 110 – Indigenous Studies 107 – Psychology 121
It is estimated that up to 50% of students entering university are unsure about which program of study they want to pursue. As many as 75% of students change their major at least once before reaching graduation. This Learning Community combines three introductory courses that highlight the breadth of disciplines in the College of Arts and Science as well as fulfills requirements for a wide variety of degrees. Health Studies 110 provides an overview of how health has been conceptualized and studied from a wide range of science, social science, and humanities disciplines. Psychology 121 familiarizes students with scientific theories and research related to the major social, clinical, cultural and developmental areas of psychology. Indigenous Studies 107 presents an overview of Indigenous societies across Saskatchewan and Canada by linking processes of the past with contemporary issues and can be used to fulfill the Indigenous Learning requirement of an Arts and Science degree. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree. This LC is an excellent choice if you are looking to explore your interests, sample popular first year classes, and meet degree requirements before you have decided on a degree path.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 03 –
Exploring Arts & Science 3
Music 111 – Sociology 111 – Indigenous Studies 107
Studies in the liberal arts opens doors for careers and leadership positions in almost any industry. Upon degree completion, liberal arts students are equipped with highly sought out skills among employers including critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration, and creativity, among others. The courses in this Learning Community will challenge students to view topics from multiple perspectives while challenging their own. Indigenous Studies 107 will develop your critical reading, writing, and thinking skills by providing a foundational understanding of Indigenous societies, cultures, and issues while fulfilling the Indigenous Learning requirement of an Arts and Science degree. Sociology 111 will introduce core sociological concepts used to understand social inequality, social order, social change, and globalization. Music 111 is an introduction to popular music of the United States and Canada from 1840 to present. While fundamental musical skills will be a component of the course, no previous musical-specific training is required. The courses in this LC can be used towards any degree in the College of Arts and Science, but are particularly well suited for students interested in sampling courses in the liberal arts.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 04 –
Social Sciences 1
Psychology 120 – Sociology 111 – English 114
If you are interested in studying human behaviour, this Learning Community is a perfect fit. Whether you are fascinated by the human brain, how societies work, or the role of culture, this LC will introduce you to concepts that can prepare you well for degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and related professional fields such as Social Work. This LC includes Psychology 120, which will familiarize you with the major biological and cognitive areas of Psychology. Sociology 111 and English 114 are foundational courses often taken together with Psychology to enhance the study of human behavior. This LC is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing unique and fulfilling careers in public policy, law, research, counselling, or human resources. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to helping professions, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 05 –
Arts & Science College Requirement
Mathematics 101 – Indigenous Studies 107 – English 114
The College of Arts and Science is the only one in a medical-doctoral university to offer a combined education in Fine Arts, Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences. Thus, students have the opportunity to explore multiple areas of interest before deciding upon, and while pursuing, a major. The College requirements introduced as part of the Arts and Science curriculum renewal allows students to acquire the foundational skills and competencies that can unlock for them the full array of learning opportunities in our college, and best prepare them for engaged and productive lives. Courses in the Arts & Science College Requirement LC may be used* to satisfy one or more of the English Language Writing, Indigenous Learning, and/or Quantitative Reasoning requirements for any Arts and Science degree. This LC is an excellent choice if you are looking to explore your interests, sample popular first year classes, and meet degree requirements before you have decided on a degree path.
*Please refer to the Course and Program Catalogue for more information.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 06 –
Law & Criminology
Philosophy 133 – Sociology 111 – Political Studies 111
Do you object to working in a career outside of the legal system? Sustain that objection by joining like-minded students in the Law and Criminology Learning Community. As part of this community you will explore political participation and activism in Canada in Political Studies 111, ethics and morality in Philosophy 133, and the construction of society in Sociology 111. These themes are applicable for students interested in pursuing careers in law, criminology, or human services. This LC is also a good fit for students interested in Certificates in Ethics, Justice, & Law, or Politics & Law, students interested more generally in the Social Sciences or Humanities, or students who are unsure of what they want to major in. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to law, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used toward any Arts and Science degree.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 07 –
Computer Science and Mathematics 1
Computer Science 141 – Mathematics 110 Updated June 7
In the age of computers, advanced technology and scientific progress, many jobs require a sophisticated knowledge of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. This Learning Community is a great choice for students interested in majoring in Computer Science, a traditional degree program providing the foundations for careers in software development, information technology, as well as graduate studies and research, but may also be of interest to students pursuing related disciplines, including Applied Computing, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or Physics, or the Certificate in Computing. Computer Science 141 provides an introduction to coding and problem solving using procedural programming. Mathematics 110 includes an introduction to derivatives, limits, techniques of differentiation, maximum and minimum problems and other applications, implicit differentiation, and anti-derivatives. The courses in this LC can be used toward any Arts and Science degree.
Please note that CMPT 141 and MATH 110 have required pre-requisite courses. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the requirements for CMPT 141 and MATH 110.
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics has developed a Math Readiness Assessment designed to help students self-assess their readiness for MATH 110. The content and instruction in MATH 110 assumes students are proficient in all of the topics on the Math Readiness Assessment.
LC-FLEX 08 –
Computer Science and Mathematics 2
Computer Science 141 – Mathematics 110** Updated June 7
We have added a second offering of our Computer Science and Mathematics Learning Community due to popular demand! In the age of computers, advanced technology and scientific progress, many jobs require a sophisticated knowledge of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. This Learning Community is a great choice for students interested in majoring in Computer Science, a traditional degree program providing the foundations for careers in software development, information technology, as well as graduate studies and research, but may also be of interest to students pursuing related disciplines, including Applied Computing, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or Physics, or the Certificate in Computing. Computer Science 141 provides an introduction to coding and problem solving using procedural programming. Mathematics 110 includes an introduction to derivatives, limits, techniques of differentiation, maximum and minimum problems and other applications, implicit differentiation, and anti-derivatives. The courses in this LC can be used toward any Arts and Science degree.
Please note that CMPT 141 and MATH 110 have required pre-requisite courses. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the requirements for CMPT 141 and MATH 110.
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics has developed a Math Readiness Assessment designed to help students self-assess their readiness for MATH 110. The content and instruction in MATH 110 assumes students are proficient in all of the topics on the Math Readiness Assessment.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
Environmental geosciences collectively represent the disciplines that study the Earth, its environmental systems and the living things (including humans) that interact with it. Environmental geoscientists and related professionals are environmental champions; they protect the environment by studying it to predict what the future will bring. The two courses in this Learning Community, Mathematics 110 and Geology 121, are required courses for degrees in Environmental Geosciences, Geology, Geophysics, and Hydrology, and the Hard Rock Geoscience and Geology Fundamentals Certificates. These courses also contribute towards degrees in in Archeology, Biology, Chemistry, Environment and Society, and Paleobiology, and are complementary to Water Science and Geomatics Certificates. This LC is a good fit for students interested in a wide range of environmental geosciences and related careers including education, fieldwork, lab work, policy, planning, or applied research. Choosing this LC is also a great start if you have a general passion for the environment but are not yet sure of your academic or program direction, or if you are interested in exploring science at the university level. The courses in this LC can be used toward any Arts and Science degree.
Please note that MATH 110 has required pre-requisite courses. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the requirements for MATH 110.
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics has developed a Math Readiness Assessment designed to help students self-assess their readiness for MATH 110. The content and instruction in MATH 110 assumes students are proficient in all of the topics on the Math Readiness Assessment.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 10 –
Nursing 1
Biology 120 – Indigenous Studies 107 – Nutrition 120 – Sociology 112
This Learning Community could be your first step towards a career as a Registered Nurse! This is one of two LCs designed for students interested in applying to the College of Nursing. Biology 120, Indigenous Studies 107, Nutrition 120, and Sociology 112 are among the specific courses that are required in the Nursing pre-professional year. These courses can also be used towards any Arts and Science Degree. Learning Community hours will help connect students to the academic process and profession of Nursing. This LC is designed to support students who wish to pursue a career in Nursing, but enrollment does not guarantee a position in the College of Nursing, or special consideration when applying. Students interested in health professions other than Nursing are encouraged to register for FLEX 12-20.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 11
– Nursing 2
Biology 120 – Indigenous Studies 107 – Nutrition 120 – Sociology 112
This Learning Community could be your first step towards a career as a Registered Nurse! This is one of two LCs designed for students interested in applying to the College of Nursing. Biology 120, Indigenous Studies 107, Nutrition 120, and Sociology 112 are among the specific courses that are required in the Nursing pre-professional year. These courses can also be used towards any Arts and Science Degree. Learning Community hours will help connect students to the academic process and profession of Nursing. This LC is designed to support students who wish to pursue a career in Nursing, but enrollment does not guarantee a position in the College of Nursing, or special consideration when applying. Students interested in health professions other than Nursing are encouraged to register for FLEX 12-20.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
LC-FLEX 12
– Biomedical & Life Sciences 1
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Mathematics 125***
This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All three courses in this LC fulfill requirements in the Biomedical Sciences Common Core. Mathematics 125 introduces mathematical modeling with a focus on applications to the life sciences. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
***MATH 125 satisfies the Quantitative Reasoning requirement for select Bachelor of Science degrees (i.e. those following the biomedical science common core). Students intending on completing a different major may be required to complete another MATH course. Please refer to the Course and Program Catalogue or consult an Academic Advisor for more information. The Department of Mathematics and Statistics has developed a Math Readiness Assessment designed to help students self-assess their readiness for university-level mathematics. Students are encouraged to review the recommended resources to ensure their readiness for first year mathematics courses.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
LC-FLEX
13 – Biomedical & Life Sciences 2
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Nutrition 120
This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All five of these majors build on a shared two-year biomedical science core platform that provides students with a broad introductory exposure to cell biology, biochemistry, microbiology, physiology and pharmacology. Biology 120 and Chemistry 112 are among the year 1 Biomedical Science common core courses, and Nutrition 120 can be used to partially fulfill the elective requirements. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
LC-FLEX 14 –
Biomedical & Life Sciences 3
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Physics 115 – Mathematics 125***
This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All four courses in this LC fulfill requirements in the Biomedical Sciences Common Core. Mathematics 125 introduces mathematical modeling with a focus on applications to the life sciences. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
***MATH 125 satisfies the Quantitative Reasoning requirement for select Bachelor of Science degrees (i.e. those following the biomedical science common core). Students intending on completing a different major may be required to complete another MATH course. Please refer to the Course and Program Catalogue or consult an Academic Advisor for more information. The Department of Mathematics and Statistics has developed a Math Readiness Assessment designed to help students self-assess their readiness for university-level mathematics. Students are encouraged to review the recommended resources to ensure their readiness for first year mathematics courses.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
LC-FLEX 15 –
Biomedical & Life Sciences 4
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Physics 115
This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All three courses in this LC fulfill requirements in the Biomedical Sciences Common Core. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
Please note that courses in this LC have required pre-requisite courses. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the requirements for PHYS 115.
Please note that courses in this LC have required pre-requisite courses. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the requirements for PHYS 115.
LC-FLEX 16 –
Biomedical & Life Sciences 5
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Psychology 120
This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All three courses in this LC fulfill requirements in the Biomedical Sciences Common Core. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
Did you know that FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities? Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
LC-FLEX 17
–Biomedical & Life Sciences 6
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – English 114
This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All three courses in this LC fulfill requirements in the Biomedical Sciences Common Core. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
LC-FLEX 18 –
Biomedical & Life Sciences 7
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Psychology 120
We have duplicated LC-FLEX 16 due to popular demand! This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All three courses in this LC fulfill requirements in the Biomedical Sciences Common Core. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
LC-FLEX 19 –
Biomedical & Life Sciences 8
Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Indigenous Studies 107
This Learning Community is one of eight designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. All three courses in this LC fulfill requirements in the Biomedical Sciences Common Core. This LC (or one of the other seven Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs) is an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
LC-FLEX 20 –
Health Studies 1
Health Studies 110 – Biology 120 – Chemistry 112 – Psychology 120
Health Studies is an interdisciplinary degree program that combines arts and science courses as part of its major requirements. This program examines the issue of health and wellness, including mental health, from a variety of perspectives. These include how biological, cultural, social, and environmental contexts influence the health and well-being of the individual. The courses in this LC, Health Studies, Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology, are all requirements for all concentrations of the Health Studies degrees. Students who choose to major in Health Studies may go on to pursue careers in research, public policy, public health, professional health sciences and many other exciting opportunities. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Health Studies, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any degree in the College of Arts and Science.
FLEX offers Term 2 Learning Communities! Once you have selected your Term 1 FLEX LC, click on the TERM 2 tab to view our LCs offered in Term 2 if you want to sign up for FLEX in both terms.
If you have already signed-up for a Term 1 FLEX LC and you are interested in signing-up for an LC in Term 2, click on the Term 2 tab to view our winter term LC offerings.
Please note: To participate in a Term 2 FLEX LC, you must sign-up for a Term 1 FLEX LC. Some Term 2 FLEX LCs require pre-requisites from a Term 1 LC and they are noted within each LC description. If you have any questions about selecting a Term 2 LC, including understanding required pre-requisite courses, e-mail aslc@usask.ca.
LC-FLEX 21 –
Exploring Arts & Science 4
Biology 120 – English 113 – Psychology 121
As a student in the College of Arts and Science, you are encouraged, and supported, to explore your interests, passions, and curiosities. Many upper year students will tell you that it takes more than one term get oriented, build awareness, practice self-assessment, and learn balance as you navigate the transition to university learning. It is recommended that Arts & Science students choose their major by the end of their second year of study, so if you are unsure of your major, program, academic, and/or career direction, take the time in choosing a major and consider scheduling an appointment with an academic advisor. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree. This LC pairs well with FLEX 01 or 03 from Term 1, and is excellent choice if you are still exploring your interests through sampling popular first year classes, and meeting degree requirements before you have decided on a degree path.
LC-FLEX 22 –
Social Sciences 2
Psychology 121 – Sociology 112 – Indigenous Studies 107
This Learning Community will challenge you to explore the connections between your own experiences as a university student, and the wider the society in which you live. This LC is an excellent choice for students interested in degrees in the social sciences like Psychology, Sociology and related professional fields and professions such as Social Work. This LC pairs well with FLEX 04 or 06 from Term 1. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to helping professions, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science Degree.
LC-FLEX 23
– Nursing 3
English 113 – Statistics 244 – Psychology 121
This Learning Community could be the next step towards a career as a Registered Nurse! This LC pairs well with FLEX 10 or FLEX 11 from Term 1 and is designed for students interested in applying to the College of Nursing. English 113, Statistics 244, and Psychology 121 are courses that can satisfy the English and Statistics course requirements included in the pre-professional year of Nursing. These courses can also be used towards any Arts and Science Degree. LC hours will help connect students to the academic process and profession of Nursing. This LC is designed to support students who wish to pursue a career in Nursing, but enrollment does not guarantee a position in the College of Nursing, or special consideration when applying.
LC-FLEX 24
– Nursing 4
English 113 – Statistics 244 – Psychology 121
We have added a second offering of our term 2 Nursing Learning Community due to popular demand! This Learning Community could be the next step towards a career as a Registered Nurse! This LC pairs well with FLEX 10 or FLEX 11 from Term 1 and is designed for students interested in applying to the College of Nursing. English 113, Statistics 244, and Psychology 121 are courses that can satisfy the English and Statistics course requirements included in the pre-professional year of Nursing. These courses can also be used towards any Arts and Science Degree. LC hours will help connect students to the academic process and profession of Nursing. This LC is designed to support students who wish to pursue a career in Nursing, but enrollment does not guarantee a position in the College of Nursing, or special consideration when applying.
Term 2 FLEX students need to have signed up for one of FLEX 12-20 in Term 1 to satisfy the pre-requisite requirements for BMSC 200 and CHEM 250. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions tab in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the pre-requisite requirements.
This Learning Community is one of five designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. The two courses in this LC are among courses required from the Biomedical Science common core and this LC pairs well with FLEX 12-20 from Term 1. After completing these core courses, students select one of the above BMSc major programs in which to specialize for their third and fourth years of study. The Term 2 Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs are an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
LC-FLEX 26
– Biomedical & Life Sciences 10
Biomedical Sciences 200 – Chemistry 115 – Physics 117
FLEX 14 and 15 are the only Term 1 FLEX LCs that satisfy the pre-requisite requirements for BMSC 200 and PHYS 117. Term 1 FLEX 12, 13, and 16-20 students who register for PHYS 115 in Term 1 along with their LC block of classes may also sign-up for this LC. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions tab in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the pre-requisite requirements.
This Learning Community is one of five designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. The three courses in this LC are among courses required from the Biomedical Science common core and this LC pairs directly with FLEX 14 or 15. After completing these core courses, students select one of the above BMSc major programs in which to specialize for their third and fourth years of study. The Term 2 Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs are an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
LC-FLEX 27 –
Biomedical & Life Sciences 11
Biomedical Sciences 200 – Chemistry 115 – Sociology 112
Term 2 FLEX students need to have signed up for one of FLEX 12-20 in Term 1 to satisfy the pre-requisite requirements for BMSC 200 and CHEM 115. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions tab in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the pre-requisite requirements.
This Learning Community is one of five designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. The three courses in this LC are among courses required from the Biomedical Science common core and this LC pairs well with FLEX 12-20 from Term 1. After completing these core courses, students select one of the above BMSc major programs in which to specialize for their third and fourth years of study. The Term 2 Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs are an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
LC-FLEX 28
– Biomedical & Life Sciences 12
Biology 121 – Chemistry 250 – Nutrition 120Updated June 12
Term 2 FLEX students need to have signed up for one of FLEX 12-20 in Term 1 to satisfy the pre-requisite requirements for BMSC 200 and CHEM 115. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions tab in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the pre-requisite requirements.
This Learning Community is one of five designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. The three courses in this LC are among courses required from the Biomedical Science common core and this LC pairs well with FLEX 12-20 from Term 1. After completing these core courses, students select one of the above BMSc major programs in which to specialize for their third and fourth years of study. The Term 2 Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs are an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
LC-FLEX 29
– Biomedical & Life Sciences 13
Biology 121 – Chemistry 250 – English 113
Term 2 FLEX students need to have signed up for one of FLEX 12-20 in Term 1 to satisfy the pre-requisite requirements for BMSC 200 and CHEM 115. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions tab in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the pre-requisite requirements.
This Learning Community is one of five designed for students interested in majoring in Biomedical & Life Sciences such as Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Biomedical Foundations; Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Neuroscience; and Cellular, Physiological and Pharmacological Sciences. The three courses in this LC are among courses required from the Biomedical Science common core and this LC pairs well with FLEX 12-20 from Term 1. After completing these core courses, students select one of the above BMSc major programs in which to specialize for their third and fourth years of study. The Term 2 Biomedical & Life Sciences LCs are an excellent fit for students interested in the Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Health Studies, or students who wish to study, work, or conduct research in professional health fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nutrition and Physical Therapy. Although this LC is designed to support students interested in fields related to Biomedical, Life Sciences and Health, enrollment in this LC does not guarantee admission to any degree program or college, nor will enrollment in this LC result in special consideration when applying to another program or college. The courses in this LC can be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
LC-FLEX 30
– Computer Science 3
Computer Science 145 – Mathematics 164 – Economics 114
FLEX 07 and 08 are the only Term 1 FLEX LCs that satisfy the pre-requisite requirements for CMPT 145. Students should refer to the Course Descriptions tab in the Course and Program Catalogue for more information about the pre-requisite requirements.
Computer Science is applicable to every field and discipline, so continuing to develop your problem solving and creative use of analytical skills to create practical and innovative software will be very useful no matter what career you are pursuing. This Learning Community pairs directly with FLEX 07 and 08 in Term 1 and is a great choice for students interested in continuing their studies in Computer Science. Computer Science 145 is a required course for both the Computer Science and Applied Computing degrees, and Mathematics 164 is one of two courses that can be used to satisfy the Quantitative Reasoning requirement, or Science requirement for both degrees, as well as some Arts and Science degrees. Economics 114 can be used towards the Business Science requirement for the Computer Science degree, or it can be used to partially satisfy the Breadth or Electives requirement for the Applied Computing degree. Courses in this LC can also be used towards any Arts and Science degree.
Frequently asked questions
FLEX Learning Communities sign-up opens, May 1, 2023 at Noon.
Go to our website — FLEX Class listing — and choose one of our FLEX LC’s. All registration is done through the website (click on the name of the LC to expand it; there will be a link to register at the bottom of the box). Once you register for an LC, it is that same as registering for courses through PAWS: you are responsible for paying for and attending each class, or dropping the courses if you do not plan to attend.
You can drop LC courses through PAWS just like any other course after after the first year registration window in June (students should be aware of drop deadlines throughout the term). If you do not take all the courses attached to an LC, you will not get the full benefit. Students who drop LC courses or the LC hour before the start of the term may be asked to withdraw from all their LC classes to make room for other students who wish to enroll in that LC.
If you want more advice on LC selection, you should email us at aslc@usask.ca and we would be happy to chat with you about the LC that meets your needs.
Yes. After you sign-up for an LC, you will be sent a confirmation e-mail with further information about LC block registration, class registration, and when/how to access the early registration window for LC students.
Absolutely! You can add more classes to your schedule when the LC Registration Window opens for LC students in June. You need to ensure these courses fit within your LC schedule (LC classes in your Block will have to be registered for first before you can add more courses to the LC). Five courses per term is the maximum for first year students.
Yes, you will! We understand the demands on your time as a university student. You should consider the time you dedicate to your FLEX Learning Community as an investment, by attending the weekly 50 minute sessions you will learn the academic skills necessary to successfully navigate your courses; the developmental skills to establish a healthy school-life balance; and, the personal skills to create meaningful friendships that will continue well beyond your time in FLEX!
No. Your Peer Mentors are students in their third- and fourth-year of study. They facilitate your weekly sessions, some of which will focus on developing academic and learning skills such as note-taking, study skills, exam preparation and making connections . In addition, your Peer Mentors act as a resource for you as you navigate your way through your first year.
Students are encouraged to choose the LC that is right for them. Our team of advisors is happy to help with LC selection. Once you register for an LC the only way to switch to another LC is to contact the LC team at aslc@usask.ca. There is no guarantee that the LC you want to switch to will have space, so choose wisely!
Not directly, no. We hope that the interaction LC students have with academic advisors, staff from other colleges, upper year students, professionals, and faculty members will improve their chances of reaching their academic and career goals. However, registration in an LC does not guarantee enrollment in any program or college, or special consideration when applying.
Once an LC is full, registration for that particular LC is closed. However, we have many FLEX LC’s with 24 seats each, for a total of over 500 LC seats. Some of the LC’s (such as the Nursing and Biomedical Sciences LC’s) are duplicated to allow for higher enrolment. If a student wants to be in an LC, there will be one available that can suit their interests.
Finalizing room scheduling usually happens later than LC signup. Therefore, room numbers will not be posted on your LC schedule. You will be able to check your detailed student schedule (with room numbers) after the first year registration window opens in June through PAWS. To do this, log into PAWS and select “Academics” (on the left of the screen), then “My Courses”. From here you can select either “Class schedule” or “Class locations” to view the room numbers of your courses. First year courses in Arts and Science are scheduled in handful of different buildings, all of which are located in a relatively small area. Getting from class to class (or lab) on time is very rarely a problem.
A few of our Learning Communities have more than one possible time for either the History seminar or chemistry laboratory. This is due to the number of seats available for each time slot. You will be able to view which seminar you have been registered for in your PAWS account after the first year registration window opens in June (log into PAWS and select “Academics” on the left of the screen, then “My Courses”. From here you can select “Class schedule”). We understand that many students will want to know what seminar or laboratory they are enrolled in before June, so feel free to email us at aslc@usask.ca.
When you sign-up for a Learning Community you are responsible for the fees and tuition associated with the classes within that Learning Community. If you change or mind or say you get accepted at a different university, then you MUST email our team at aslc@usask.ca so we can remove you from the LC(s) that you signed up for PRIOR to registration into the classes.
If after reading this list of FAQ for the FLEX Learning Communities, you still have questions, email your question(s) to aslc@usask.ca