Discover the Power of the Signature ExperienceTailoring your college journey
The Gustavus Signature Experience (SigX) represents a groundbreaking educational requirement designed to empower you to customize your college years. It serves as an overarching program that encapsulates the myriad ways in which Gusties can showcase their academic prowess to the world, all while engaging and impacting the community around them. With a diverse range of SigX opportunities, you can fine-tune your choices to align precisely with your unique postgraduate aspirations.
SigX serves as a bridge connecting your academic pursuits to your future career, offering immersive, practical, cultural, and hands-on learning experiences through four distinct options: internships, student-faculty research, course-based community projects, and study-away opportunities.
The SigX program offers all the advantages and affordability of a Gustavus liberal arts education, tailored to match your specific interests and career objectives. You'll receive continuous, personalized guidance and mentorship from dedicated faculty advisors, ensuring your academic journey aligns seamlessly with your ambitions. Upon completion of a Signature Experience, you'll earn a digital credential to enhance your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- Internships Leverage our extensive network of over 30,000 alumni and other professional connections to gain valuable work experience in your chosen field.
- Student-faculty Research Gustavus students enjoy unparalleled access to collaborative research opportunities typically found at the graduate level at much larger institutions.
- Community Projects Enroll in courses that immerse you in a community setting, enabling you to apply your liberal arts education in meaningful, real-world scenarios.
- Study Away Enrich your academic journey by selecting from a wide range of domestic and international programs, expanding both your personal horizons and professional prospects.
The Gustavus Signature Experience is more than just a requirement; it's an invitation to shape your educational narrative and craft a future tailored to your passions and ambitions. Join us in this transformative academic journey and unlock the boundless possibilities that await you.
Other academic program changes
Beyond the addition of the SigX, our faculty and staff are making big changes to our academic program – starting in fall 2024 – that will positively impact the student experience and make a Gustavus education even more relevant in today’s ever-changing world.
Gustavus listened to our current students and, in fall 2023, acted on their feedback. From improvements to the academic calendar and class registration process, as well as expanded hands-on experiences and resume-building opportunities, Gusties are getting more out of college.
- It’ll be easier to double major and graduate on time, even if you switch your major.
- Reduction in the number of general education courses required
- There are no ‘wasted’ classes, even while you are still deciding on a major.
- All introductory (100- and 200-level) courses count for one general education requirement
- There’s more room to explore your interests.
- Reduction in the number of courses required for some majors
- Spring semester will end in April, creating opportunities for students to begin summer work, internships, research experiences, and their first big job sooner. There will also be a week-long fall and spring break.
- There are more opportunities for coursework, music tours, and study away in May or June.
- Creation of multiple summer terms
- Classes won’t compete with performing arts rehearsals and athletic practices. With the exception of a few labs, no classes are scheduled from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
- Activity block Monday through Friday
- One day per semester won’t have classes and will be dedicated for students to meet with faculty, learn about departments and programs, and work on their academic plan.
- Creation of an Advising Day each semester