Easiest Classes to Take at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU): A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the easiest classes at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) can be a strategic decision for balancing your academic load. While the difficulty of a class can vary based on your personal strengths, interests, and majors, there are some general recommendations based on student feedback and academic standing.
General Education Courses
Many students find introductory courses in the humanities or social sciences to be more accessible. These courses often offer a lighter academic load and provide a good starting point for exploring new ideas.
Electives
If you are looking for electives that align with your interests but are outside your major, consider courses in arts, music, or film studies. Students often find these courses less rigorous while still engaging and fulfilling.
Introductory Computer Science Courses
If you have some background in programming, introductory courses like CS111 and CS151 are noteworthy for potentially being less demanding. These courses provide a foundational understanding without overwhelming your schedule.
Interdisciplinary Courses
Interdisciplinary courses that combine different fields can also be less stressful. These courses often focus on discussion-based learning, providing a more relaxed atmosphere compared to traditional lecture courses.
Freshman Seminars
Freshman seminars are typically designed to be more discussion-based, making them an excellent choice for reducing stress and gaining a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Specific Course Recommendations
Leadership for Engineers (18-603)
Managing Across Cultures (70-342) was not only interesting but easy. I liked Professor Hooker. It fills out a requirement for Humanities and Arts too. Students often appreciate its practical and engaging content.
Acting for Non-Majors (54-191)
Id like to add Acting for Non-Majors (54-191) to that list. Its hard to get in as an undergrad unless you are a senior, but pretty much everyone gets an A and its a lot of fun too. This course offers a unique and enjoyable experience.
Information Warfare (19-601)
This class counts as a science elective for the CS undergrad curriculum. It is easy because exams are open-internet and homeworks involve easy short-answer questions. Students often appreciate the flexibility and simplicity of the coursework.
History of Black American Music (79-357)
I really enjoyed this course. Part of why it was easy was because it was so fun. The exams are straightforwarda mix of memorizing historical facts and recognizing musical styles and artists. The professor is passionate about the subject, which enhances the learning experience. Additionally, you only have one essay and an oral presentation to complete, and you can choose your own topic. The final is for extra credit points, making it a beneficial addition to your transcript.
History of Math (21-350)
The grade for this class is determined by a single essay due at the end of the semester. The essay is written in groups. I havenowntaken this one but Ive heard that its not very good so taking it would be purely for the GPA boost. This course offers a lighter academic load with a focus on group work, making it appealing to those seeking a less intense experience.
Introductory Language Courses (82-1x1)
Learning a language is far from easy, but to do well in these courses, you just need to show up to class and spend an hour or two outside of class per day on homework/vocab/pronunciation. I took Intro to Arabic (82-111) and really enjoyed it. These courses provide a structured approach to language learning with a balanced workload.
Before choosing a class, its always a good idea to check the syllabus, read reviews from other students, and consider your own strengths and interests. Additionally, talking to academic advisors or peers can provide valuable insights to tailor your course selection to your goals.
CMU offers a wide range of courses, and finding the easiest ones based on your personal circumstances is a smart strategy. Whether you are focusing on humanities, social sciences, computer science, or electives, there are a variety of options to help you achieve a balanced and enjoyable college experience.