A study with 46 university students investigated whether participation either in a required first-year course in academic skills development or in required tutoring influenced students' academic self-efficacy, as measured by self-reported abilities and projected grades. Results support the use of required external academic support. (MSE)

The University of Missouri-Kansas City medical school, which offers a combined bachelor's-medical degree, created a first-year support program to help first-year students meet significant academic and developmental challenges. The program includes academic advising, learning skills assessment, peer and individual tutoring, career counseling, and…

The Purdue University (Indiana) Department of Freshman Engineering offers a counselor-tutorial program to high-potential, but academically disadvantaged, freshmen. The program's counseling and tutorial services are intended to help students successfully complete their first-year courses in calculus, chemistry, and physics. Experience shows…