Exploratory Studies (EXP) offers a range of courses designed to help students explore majors, discover their strengths and interests, and prepare for academic and professional success. From your first semester and beyond, EXP courses provide hands-on learning and guidance at every stage of your Illinois journey.
EXP 101: Exploring @ Illinois
Credit Hours: 1 or 2
When You’ll Take It: First semester in EXP
Your Illinois experience begins with EXP 101, a 10-week, 1-credit-hour course that fulfills the university’s orientation requirement. Taught by EXP advisors and administrators, this class helps you transition to campus life, connect with resources, and start exploring majors and careers that align with your goals.
In this course, you’ll:
- Build skills for academic and personal success
- Explore your strengths, interests, and values
- Learn how to navigate the process of declaring a major (ICT)
- Gain confidence and community as a new Illinois student
EXP 110: Future Ready Toolkit
Credit Hours: 1
For: Students in the Enrichment Experience Program (EEP)
A second-semester experience that helps EEP students strengthen academic and personal skills while planning ahead for future goals. Through reflection, exploration, and engagement, EXP 110 equips students with the tools to succeed throughout college and beyond.
EXP 150: James Scholars Foundations
Credit Hours: 1
For: First-year James Scholar students
An introductory course for newly admitted honors students, EXP 150 helps James Scholars explore opportunities in leadership, research, creativity, and service-learning. Students develop the foundation for continued engagement and growth within the James Scholar Honors program.
EXP 199: Major Exploration Lab (Pilot)
Credit Hours: 1
Launching: Spring 2026
For: Students in University Housing Living Learning Communities (BUS LLC, LEADS LLC, Weston Exploration LLC) until Nov. 19, open to any EXP students living in campus housing starting on Nov. 20.
A hands-on, pilot course designed to guide students through the major exploration process. EXP 199 encourages students to connect their interests with academic opportunities through interactive labs, reflection, and collaboration. Plans are underway to expand this course in the future.