2010-2011 Webster University Learning Communities

We invite you to explore the option of participating in a dynamic learning community as part of your first-year experience at Webster University.  Learning communities are groups of like-minded first-year students who choose to learn together, study together, and explore their fields of interest together.

The Learning Community program consists of co-enrolling students in two or three courses specifically selected for the learning community based on an area of interest or academic study.  Students may participate as either residential or commuter students.  Residential students will be housed on the same residence hall floor, and commuter students will receive special commuter access to that residential floor.  Through these Learning Communities students will participate in activities inside and outside of the classroom that will enhance their learning and foster a deeper sense of connection to the Webster Community. 

Webster University has four distinct Learning Communities to choose from:

Pathways – Exploring Options and Making Connections

Designed for first year students who are undecided in a major (2 cohorts - 30 spots available)

Communications – SOCC – School of Communication Community

Open to first year students with majors in the School of Communications (2 cohorts - 30 spots available)

Fine Arts – An Environment to Foster Creativity

Open to first year students majoring in Music or Art (2 cohorts - 30 spots available)

Social Engagement – Using Learning and Lasting Friendships to Make a Difference

Open to first year students who have an interest in areas like human rights, political science, and social activism (1 cohort - 15 spots available)

For more information on these communities, visit Frequently Asked Questions.

• Enhance their learning experience

• Engage in activities outside the classroom that will reflect topics they are learning inside the classroom

• Integrate their academic, social, and career development

• Have a higher retention rate and GPA

• Show appreciation for diverse cultures and experiences

• Learn to work collaboratively with each other and other members of the Webster University community

• Adjust better socially and academically to campus life

• Engage in activities that will contribute to their university and local community



Students and Faculty share their Learning Community Experiences…

“As a teacher, I’m not sure what I did to earn this group of Pathways students.  They honestly and meaningfully care about one another.  Most importantly, they’re building friendships that will continue well beyond their first year of college.”

 – Larry Baden, 2006 – 2010 Pathways Learning Community Faculty

“The group knows each other before coming to class.  There is much more interest in learning the material being presented.  I have noticed with LC students that they are willing to help each other in their learning the material in the class.  This of course, means that this will continue with them as individuals as they go through school and into the real world experience.”

 – John Houston, 2008 – 2010 Communications and Learning Community Faculty

“Pathways has been one of the most rewarding teaching experiences of my entire career.”

 – Bruce Umbaugh, 2006 – 2010 Pathways Learning Community Faculty

 “They are building a community of artists both inside and outside the class.  They seem to ‘have each other’s back’ which is nice to see.”

 – Robin Assner, 2009 - 2010 Art Learning Community Faculty

“As an international freshman student, I was part of a community [Art LC] that created a positive academic atmosphere which helped me to completely adjust to the ways of learning here in the United States.  Hanging out and living with a number of highly talented individuals assisted me to improve my art-making and to form an opinion of my own.  The Fine Arts Learning Community has truly been a home far from home.”

– Yvonne Osei, 2009 Art Learning Community, Art Major

“If I were to say anything about the Learning Community, I would say that it is the reason I am still here at Webster.  The first week here, I just missed home so much.  After my first week of being around the same people, I realized that I needed to start opening up.  This led to me having the greatest experience I could have dreamed of.  I now have some friends here that I know will last a lifetime.  It has been the best thing I could have ever decided to do, and because of it, I love Webster more than ever.”

 – Tyler Condon, 2009 Communications Learning Community, Media Communications Major

"I came to Webster literally not knowing anyone -- I was the only person from my high school and among my friends who chose Webster. The Pathways Program allowed me to easily meet new people and form strong bonds with my classmates, some of whom are now my closest friends at school. I also got to know my Resident Assistant, the Peer Mentors, and professors on personal level I didn't think was possible in college.  Not only were these relationships helpful for my initial transition to college, but they have also benefited me outside of the program."

- Kelly Diecker, 2007 Pathways Learning Community Member, 2008 Pathways Resident Assistant, Psychology Major