New Curriculum Distribution
Information on this page applies to students beginning as first-years in Fall 2027 and beyond.
Distribution requirements form one of three interconnected components of the College curriculum. They ensure that, at the same time as students pursue advanced study in particular areas, they also gain understanding of complementary academic approaches and wider context.
Students distribute a portion of their overall coursework across the three academic divisions that make up the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS): Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Humanities & the Arts.
Distribution Requirements
- Students are required to distribute 20 of their course credits across SAS divisions, with 12 in a first division, 5 in a second division, and 3 in the third division.
- Students choose the divisions in which they complete at least 12, 5, or 3 credits respectively, and the choice may change at any time.
- The 12-5-3 requirement simply overlays a student’s overall plan of study.
- Almost every course in the School of Arts and Sciences counts toward divisional distribution, allowing students to explore subjects and courses that especially interest them.
- SAS courses that satisfy major, minor, and other requirements also count toward distribution requirements.
- Students are required to complete at least 30 credits overall within the School of Arts and Sciences.
- Students are required to complete at least 36 credits in total. This includes all SAS credits as well as approved transfer credits and credits earned toward the BA at other schools within Penn.