A Message from the Director

Welcome to the Office of University Studies & First-year Programs!

The Office of University Studies and First Year Programs is devoted to enhancing the first year experience for freshman students at Delaware State University. We strive to retain our students through developmental programming which involves academic, career and leadership development. First-year students are taught how to resolve potential issues, how to navigate campus-wide resources efficiently, and how to be responsible and engaged students that will result in college success. We ensure that there is uniformity amongst the first year experience through our University Seminar Courses, Freshman Forum series and community building through peer mentoring.  Furthermore, we continue to enhance academic success by providing accessibility to academic support services available within the Division of Academic Enrichment.

Our vision is to ensure transformative and sound foundational experiences that will contribute to academic success and retention of first year undergraduates at DSU, and provide comprehensive content and co-curricular activities that encourage student connections, build community and foster academic excellence, leadership and service.

University Studies and First-year Programs provide comprehensive seminars, enrichment workshops, leadership opportunities and professional development support to freshmen . Such services and programs include:

• A freshmen seminar/forum series
• Peer mentoring program
• Study skills and networking development
• Academic and professional portfolio development
• Campus community engagement and outreach activities via Residential Learning Community Program

Our office collaborates with Faculty across the University, the Academic Support Center, the Office of Mentoring and Advising, the Office of Testing Services,Career Services, and the Center for Teaching and Learning.

The Office of University Studies and First-year Programs is designed to increase retention and promote academic persistence of incoming freshmen. We provide academic program services that are proactive, comprehensive, and oriented toward furthering the long-term academic and personal growth of Delaware State University students.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to working with you at DSU!

Sincerely,

Dr. Jacqueline A. Washington

Delaware State University’s core values: outreach, community, scholarship, diversity and integrity

First Year Programs

• University Seminar I & II - Freshmen Level General Education course
• Freshman Forum - Mandatory for all Freshmen
• Summer Bridge Programs - Two pre-college summer programs for incoming freshmen who meet various requirements and/or qualifications - Jumpstart Program, Project Success.