Frequently Asked Questions about Engaged Learning

The Engaged Learning University Requirement is a curricular requirement for undergraduate students in which they must enroll in an Engaged Learning course prior to graduation. All undergraduate students are required to complete at least one Engaged Learning course/s totaling at least three (3) credit hours prior to graduation. Engaged Learning courses are labeled in LOCUS and include:

• A structured learning experience integrated into a course that engages students in learning outside the classroom, such as in a community agency, professional organization, or in a research setting
• Critical reflection on that experience through various assignments in class
• Synthesis of the experience through a final project or portfolio

Engaged Learning courses may be offered by either individual departments or the Center for Engaged Learning, Teaching, and Scholarship (CELTS). For more information, visit: CELTS Programs for Engaged Learning

Are there different types of Engaged Learning courses?

There are five different categories of classes that satisfy the Engaged Learning requirement. Click on any category to learn more about the courses and criteria.

• Service-Learning
• Academic Internship
• Fieldwork
• Undergraduate Research
• Public Performance

How do I find Engaged Learning courses when it is time to register?
All Engaged Learning courses are labeled in LOCUS and the section number includes an “E” (e.g., EXPL 390 – 01E).

When should I complete my Engaged Learning course?
Loyola students may complete the Engaged Learning requirement at any time by enrolling in an Engaged Learning course during their undergraduate year. Most students enroll in an Engaged Learning course during their sophomore, junior, or senior years. It is highly recommended to enroll in an Engaged Learning course during sophomore or junior year.

Can an Engaged Learning course also be a core curriculum course or a requirement for my major/minor?

The Engaged Learning requirement may be satisfied by a course within the Core Curriculum, or in a student’s major or minor, or through an elective course. Students may engage in these courses during the regular academic year, summer semester, J-Term, a capstone course or a study abroad experience.

Can I complete more than one Engaged Learning course?
Yes, many Loyola students enroll in more than one Engaged Learning course.

If I study abroad, will I complete my engaged learning requirement?
No, just because a student engages in study abroad, they do not meet their Engaged Learning requirement. If students are planning to satisfy Engaged Learning while studying abroad, some courses for Loyola programs may be listed in LOCUS. Students must work with the Office for International Programs to identify if courses meet the Engaged Learning requirement. For others, check the study abroad Course Approval Database: By Clicking Here. For more resources, visit CELTS Programs Engaged Learning Student Resources 

If I do an internship, will I complete my engaged learning requirement?
No, students must enroll in an academic internship course which is Engaged Learning while they are doing their internship (must be done concurrently) to meet the Engaged Learning requirement.

What if I did an internship or volunteered in the past? Does that count?

No, past internships and volunteer experiences are not considered for Engaged Learning because an engaged learning course was not taken at the same time. Students with an approved internship must enroll in an academic internship course that has been designated for Engaged Learning, and students with an approved volunteer experience must enroll in a service-learning course with that option and designated as Engaged Learning. The academic internship course and the internship experience are done concurrently (in the same semester). The service-learning course and the community experience are done in the same semester as well.

If I held a leadership position in a student organization or on campus job, does that count as Engaged Learning?
No, past experiences do not count for Engaged Learning, as students need to enroll in an Engaged Learning course and have the engaged learning experience concurrently (during the same semester).

Can I waive my Engaged Learning requirement?
No, the Engaged Learning University Requirement must be fulfilled, just as core curriculum requirements and writing intensive courses are completed, to fulfill requirements for graduation.

For questions: Visit CELTS Engaged Learning or contact EngagedLearning@luc.edu