Experimental College

For students who wish to pursue topics outside the normal curricular course offerings of the College of Arts and Sciences or the Conservatory of Music, a co-curricular alternative is available in the Experimental College (ExCo).

ExCo is a student-run organization that sponsors courses for limited co-curricular credit taught by members of the Oberlin community, including students, faculty, staff, and community members. Each year ExCo offers an array of subjects not found in the regular curriculum. The student-run Experimental College Committee invites applications from individuals who wish to teach an ExCo course. Student instructors may earn the number of credits listed for the course, plus one additional credit.

Please note:

ExCo courses are typically offered for one or two credits.
As co-curricular courses, credits earned for ExCo courses count toward the general graduation requirement but do not satisfy any distribution, cultural diversity, or other requirements.
ExCo course descriptions and scheduling details are announced every semester prior to registration.
ExCo registration takes place in the first week of each semester, during which period an ExCo Fair is held to allow interested students to meet ExCo instructors and learn more about that semester’s course offerings.
Students must follow the dates and deadlines published in the academic calendar for registration and course adjustments for ExCo courses.
Students may not record an official audit for an ExCo course.
No incompletes are given for ExCo courses; students must complete all ExCo coursework during the designated course time.