The major programs at Seton Hall University have common requirements for beginning students. This core curriculum in combination with a declared interest or major makes up the courses of the first term. The majority of entering students have a course load of 16 credits. These students take five classes and the University Life course. Students who are admitted on a probationary basis, or who have other time constraints to consider, will take approximately four courses and the University Life course.
 
Most courses meet three times a week for 50 minutes or twice a week for 75 minutes. The University Life course meets once a week for 50 minutes and taught by your mentor with help from your peer adviser. This way the first-semester student will be assured to meet with their mentor on a weekly basis during the first semester. Important college issues such as time management, learning styles, communication skills, career development, stress management and substance abuse come up for discussion.