Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is ExCo?
A: ExCo (the Experimental College) is a student-run department of Oberlin College that offers classes taught by students, community members, and basically anyone else who wants to teach. The courses usually cover subject matter not offered through the Oberlin College curriculum.

Q: Can students get Oberlin College credit for taking or teaching ExCo classes?
A: Yes. Student can receive college credit both for taking and for teaching classes. No more than 5 ExCo credits can be applied towards graduation, but you can still take as many ExCo classes as you want.

Q: How do Variable Credit Hours work with ExCo classes?
A: All ExCos can be taken for credit up to the maximum number the course is approved for, and any class may be taken for zero credits. So a one-credit class may be taken for one credit or for zero credits. This way, students are not restricted from taking an ExCo because of semester credit limits.

Q: How do I change the variable credit hours for my ExCo?
A: You can change your variable hours with the Variable Credit option in PRESTO. Alternately, you can go to the Registrar's Office and fill out a Schedule Adjustment Request form (they're gray).

Q: How do I get into the class I want to take?
A: Go to the ExCo Fair, held at the beginning of each semester (usually the first Sunday after classes start). You can sign up for the classes you want to take, as well as ask the instructors any questions you have about a class. Most classes select their students by random lottery, although some have an application. If you're accepted into an ExCo, you can register on PRESTO (just like your other classes). (If you're not an Oberlin College student, you don't need to register at all.)

Q: How do I apply to teach a class?
A: To teach a class, you need to fill out a New Course Proposal form, write a detailed, 12-week syllabus, get 2 recommendations, and have an interview. It sounds daunting, but it's not so bad. Once your application and interview are complete, the ExCo Committee will review it and get back to you.

Q: Where can I find application materials?
A: Application materials are available year-round on this very website (under Instructors and Applications). We put applications outside our office (Wilder Hall, Room 302) in paper form around the time our deadline.

Send any questions (or answers that you want clarified) to exco@oberlin.edu