Revised 8/25

SDV 101 - Orientation to (specify the Discipline) (1 CR.)

Course Description

Assists students in transition to colleges. Provides overviews of college policies, procedures, curricular offerings. Encourages contacts with other students and staff. Assists students toward college success through information regarding effective study habits, career and academic planning, and other college resources available to students. Introduces students to the discipline in which they are enrolled. May include English and Math placement testing. Strongly recommended for beginning students. Required for graduation. First-time college students are required to take SDV 100 or SDV101 before enrolling for their 16th semester hour at the College. Lecture 1 hour per week. *Course description under review by VCCS.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to assist first-time students to familiarize themselves with the College and its support services, and to develop skills necessary for success here and in their transitions to learning and work after Northern Virginia Community College. In addition, the orientation course provides students with a variety of opportunities for learning about the dimensions of being successful in achieving their personal and career goals, while exploring the possibilities and potentialities of a particular discipline or profession.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

None.

Course Objectives

This course is designed for students who plan to major in certain academic disciplines and/or prepare for specified careers.

Upon completion of this course the student should be able to:

  • Students will identify their learning preferences and how they could apply appropriate academic life management strategies in a variety of learning environments.
  • Students will practice how to communicate effectively in academic and professional situations.
  • Students will use career assessments and resources to research and evaluate potential career objectives and academic goals.
  • Students will develop an academic plan for a program of study at NOVA that aligns with transfer or career goals.

     

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Orientation to a Specified Discipline or Profession
  • Academic Planning
  • Academic Skills
  • Career Exploration
  • Communication
  • Critical Thinking
  • Diversity &Inclusion
  • Financial Literacy
  • Goal Setting
  • Stress Management
  • Time Management