Discovery Seminars

About Discovery Seminars for Undergraduates

Discovery Seminars are courses designed to foster interaction between students and faculty, encouraging meaningful discussions in small groups. Students will have the chance to build relationships with faculty, gain insight into the thinking processes of different academic fields, and delve into intriguing new subjects. These seminars will showcase the diverse array of opportunities awaiting you at UCSB, spanning various majors and undergraduate research endeavors.

Discover exciting new topics each quarter by exploring our Seminar List page, where you can find the latest offerings. With a wide range of subjects, there's always something fresh and intriguing to explore every quarter.

Types of Discovery Seminars

Discovery Seminars for First-Year Students: INT 86AA-ZZ

UCSB faculty members develop these seminars on subjects about which they’re knowledgeable and passionate. 

  • 1 unit
  • Lower-division
  • One hour each week
  • Limited to 20 students, or 11 students if a field trip is involved.
  • Taught by one Faculty

Discovery Seminars for Transfer Students: INT 186AA-ZZ

Designed for transfer students who have established an interest in certain disciplines and subjects. UCSB faculty members develop these seminars on subjects about which they’re knowledgeable and passionate.

  • 1 unit
  • Upper-division
  • One hour each week
  • Limited to 20 students, or 1 1 students if a field trip is involved.
  • Taught by one Faculty​​

Discovery+ Seminars: INT 87AA-ZZ & INT 187AA-ZZ
Discovery+ Seminars are taught by faculty members in the same discipline or in different disciplines, and they explore a theme or a subject from multiple perspectives.

  • 2 units
  • Lower-division & Upper-division available
  • Two hours each week
  • Limited to 30 or 40 students
  • Taught by two Faculty

Information for Students

Students interested in participating in a Discovery Seminars can visit Information for Students.

Information for Faculty

Faculty interested in proposing a Discovery Seminar should consult the Discovery Proposal Information for Faculty Instructors.