In Spring 2027, the program is offering a 1-credit academic skills course open to all degree-seeking, undergraduate students.
Classroom topics include metacognition, time literacy and management, effective study strategies, growth mindset, and more. Students will benefit from small class sizes and access to their instructor, a Student Success Coach, for 1-on-1 individualized support.
All first and second-year students with a cumulative GPA below 2.3 will be automatically enrolled in GU-1200. Over 70% of students whose GPA was below a 2.3 prior to the course saw their GPA increase both during and after their semester enrolled in Study CATS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Study CATS is listed on my current course schedule, and I didn’t sign up for it. What is Study CATS?
First and second-year students with a cumulative GPA below 2.3 are automatically enrolled in Study CATS Academic Recovery.
Course topics include study strategies, time management tools, organizational practices, mindset and mindfulness, among others. Students are asked to reflect on their learning experiences, academic goals, and personal values to better understand who they are as learners. The course directly connects students with campus resources and support networks to help support their academic journey.
In addition to the class meeting, students will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with their instructor, a Student Success Coach, for personalized academic coaching and support.
I’ve been enrolled in a Study CATS section, but I have a scheduling conflict. What should I do?
We use course schedules to assign students to Study CATS sections. However, we realize that you may have other commitments (work, sports, student clubs, etc.) outside of your academics. If you have a scheduling conflict with your current assigned section, please email your instructor, and they will work with you to find a course meeting time that works with your schedule.
I’m worried adding another class to my schedule will be too much. How much work can I expect from this course?
Study CATS is a 1-credit course that meets once a week for 50 minutes and is graded on a Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory scale.
The intention of the course is to help you manage what is already on your plate, not add to it. It’s helpful to think of Study CATS as a support system that helps you better manage and complete work for your other courses. Class assignments and activities revolve around exploring and practicing personal management strategies that will help you succeed at UVM and beyond!
What have past students said about the course?
Here are some quotes from former students about their experience in Study CATS:
“I appreciated getting explanations on how to access the various resources. I had heard of most of them, but I didn’t know how to utilize them until this class showed me how.”
“I think the most helpful thing for me was the accountability aspect, taking the time to think and learn about what did and did not work for me last semester was helpful in being more successful this semester.”
“The most helpful part of Study CATS wasn’t a resource or a lesson; it was just a reminder that I’m not alone. Talking with me peers in this class helped with my feelings of isolation...”
“I appreciated the emphasis that having issues with focusing, study skills, etc. wasn’t just a personal issue, it also was related to mental health/knowing your brain.”