A First Year Learning Community

Download a program brochure and check out the new LEAP video above.

LEAP IS a year-long learning community for entering University students. It consists of two three-credit-hour courses – one fall semester, one spring semester – taken with the same professor and classmates, allowing students to build community. LEAP’s two classes fulfill the diversity requirement and two general education requirements and are linked to optional classes in writing, library research, major selection, and service.

Message from the Director:

Welcome to the LEAP Program website, whether you’re a prospective, current, or former LEAP student, a parent, or a faculty member from the University of Utah or elsewhere who wants to know more about our program.

The educational philosophy behind LEAP derives ultimately from John Dewey.  Like Dewey, we believe that the purpose of education is to prepare students for further education and finally to become life-long lovers of learning.  A year-long learning community, LEAP gets students off to a great start in college.  As our acronym suggests, we encourage and facilitate learning about crucial contemporary issues; engagement with classmates, professors, the campus and the wider community; individual educational achievement; and progress toward graduation and personal career goals.

We know LEAP works.  Our students are significantly more likely than non-LEAP students to come back for their sophomore year, to graduate on time, and to be satisfied that their university experience has broadened their knowledge and understanding of others.

I am proud to lead a cohort of 11 faculty, 22 sophomore Peer Advisors, and more than 600 students in a collaborative effort to launch entering freshmen into a rewarding college experience.

Carolyn Bliss, Ph.D.
LEAP Program Director