1. What is Beyond the Classroom (BTC)?
2. How is the new BTC different from the previous program?
3. Why are two courses required?
4. Do I need to take both courses?
5. Do I have to begin the program in the fall semester?
6. Can I apply now but take the courses later?
7. Do I need to be a junior to participate in Beyond the Classroom?
8. I’m already involved in another program. Can I participate in BTC, too?
9. How is this program different from other Living and Learning programs on campus?
1. What is Beyond the Classroom (BTC)?
BTC is a program to enhance professional preparation and cultivate an
understanding of civic engagement for sophomores, juniors, and seniors
at the University of Maryland.
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2. What are the main program requirements?
BTC prepares students for engagement in their community and work life beyond college. BTC is a two-semester program. During the first semester, students will develop skills needed for the experiential learning experience. During the second semester, students will complete their internship with a nonprofit or nongovernmental organization.
3. Why are two courses required?
It is important to have the skills needed to participate in an internship experience. The first course, UNIV 325, is taken before the internship semester, and UNIV 326, the second course, is taken while the student is participating in the experiential learning aspect of BTC and will assist in applying those skills developed in the UNIV 325.
4. Do I need to take both courses?
You must complete both courses and an internship experience in order to complete the program and earn a transcript notation.
5. Do I have to begin the program in the fall semester?
Students may begin the program at anytime. Both courses will be offered fall and spring.
6. Can I apply now but take the courses later?
You should apply for BTC during the semester prior to the semester you want to begin the program. You may delay the second course and internship after completing the first course.
7. Do I need to be a junior to participate
in Beyond the Classroom?
Students may apply as early as the semester in which they are completing
30 credits.
8. I’m already involved in another program. Can I participate in BTC, too?
Yes. We do encourage students to live in our community and housing is open to those students interested and eligible to live in South Campus Commons. However, we realize that some students are already committed to other living arrangements and we do not want those other commitments to keep you from participating in our program.
9. How is this program different from other Living and Learning programs on campus?
A majority of living and learning programs on campus focus on helping the student transition from high school to college. Our program assists students in transitioning from college to life after graduation.
BTC is housed in South Campus Commons, but students are not required to live there in order to participate in BTC. Please visit South Campus Commons’ website for leasing information if you are interested in living in SCC.