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Students on the quad.

Why Thinking Matters?

Thinking Matters helps you ask rigorous and genuine questions that can lead to scientific experimentation, literary interpretation, or social policy analysis. The lively lecture and seminar format challenges you to discover collaborative ways to approach problem solving.

Welcome, Class of 2024! The Thinking Matters first-year course requirement provides a common point of transition to Stanford. The curriculum introduces you to new ideas, while faculty lectures and small-class discussions generate fresh insights leading to personal and intellectual growth.
 

Compare Your Options to Satisfy the Thinking Matters Requirement in Your First Year

Options for Satisfying the Thinking Matters Requirement

A student in THINK 23.

Thinking Matters

Satisfy THINK and at least one Ways with one-quarter courses in your choice of discipline. Options in autumn, winter, and spring.
Students on an ESF field trip to the Getty Museum.

Education as Self-Fashioning

Complete THINK and WR1 requirements with a combined seminar, writing section, and lecture. Autumn quarter only.
SLE class.

Integrated Learning Environments

Residence-based programs last your entire first year and satisfy multiple requirements. Choose from Arts Immersion (ITALIC) or Humanities/Classics Focus (SLE).

Thinking Matters Course Listings

Interested in fulfilling the requirement with a one-quarter Thinking Matters course? This flexible option allows students to choose a course during autumn, winter, or spring.


See all of the possible courses being offered by the Thinking Matters program this year.
 

Learn more about Thinking Matters courses

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Thinking Matters

Dan Edelstein
Faculty Director
(650) 724-9881

Parna Sengupta
Associate Vice Provost, Director
(650) 725-3984

Dayo Mitchell
Senior Associate Director
(650) 736-0751

Beth Seltzer
Academic Technology Specialist
(650) 498-2675

Neema Oliver
Student Services Officer
(650) 724-2062

General Inquiries
thinkingmatters@stanford.edu

More Information

  • Thinking Matters Governance Board
  • Interested in joining the student advisory board?
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