People
Emma Dunn, Undergraduate Academic Administrator
Office: 1-110
Phone: (617) 253-2305
Email: emmadunn@mit.edu
How to contact: for quick questions, stop by, email or call office.
Sangbae Kim, 2-A Coordinator
Office: 3-455D
Email: sangbae@mit.edu
How to contact: email or sign-up sheet outside his office.
Ken Kamrin, Undergraduate Officer
kkamrin@mit.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Drop Date and Add Date work for half-semester classes?
For first half of the term subjects, Add Date is also Drop Date. For second half of the term subjects, Drop Date for full term classes is Add Date for second half of term classes, Drop Date for second half of term classes is the last day of classes.
How does Sophomore Exploratory work with half term subjects?
Sophomore Exploratory can be used for one subject per term (including half term subjects). This is an MIT rule, no exceptions.
How easy is it to substitute straight 2 classes with the new 2-A classes? How mixed a course plan are we allowed to have? How strict will it be to follow the new 2-A program?
Our first principle in determining allowed substitutions is that you are always allowed to “trade-up.” For example, if you are in the new 2-A program and really love controls and would like to take 12 units instead of 6, you can always substitute 2.004 for 2.04A. Depending on the class, the six extra units can count either as extra engineering or, if the course is upper level, as concentration units.
Many people start out 2 and switch to 2-A and vice versa. How easy will it be to switch between the two?
We understand that people change their mind! This is fine. Bearing in mind that we will uphold the principle outlined in the previous answer, and we will not allow any substitutions that could jeopardize accreditation, our intention is to make it as easy as possible for students to move between 2 and 2-A. (However, please bear in mind that there are likely to be a few holes in your curriculum that will need to be filled if you switch late in either direction).
Q: Is 2-A accredited?
A: Yes, 2-A is a fully accredited engineering degree.
Q: How do I know which classes count as engineering units?
A: There is no easy answer to this since engineering content must be evaluated in the context of your entire program. However, for guidance, see the Engineering Units page.
Q: Can I count classes in my concentration in my minor?
A: Yes. Classes in your concentration may also be counted in your minor. (But remember GIRS can NOT be counted in your concentration).
Q: Can I count classes in my concentration in my HASS concentration?
A: No subject may count as both a HASS and a 2-A concentration subject. Including a HASS subject in your concentration is only allowed if you take extra HASS subjects.
Q: I’d like to put together a concentration; how should I get started?
A: There are a number of resources to help guide you through this process.
- The online concentration form (see link in sidebar) will help you organize your classes. You will be allowed to re-edit and save drafts of your concentration online using this form. Once you are satisfied with your plan, click submit and it will be forwarded to the department for review and approval.
- Talk to us! There are a number of people who can help you put a proposal together:
- Emma Dunn (emmadunn@mit.edu) in the undergraduate office can give you tips on all aspects of the program.
- Prof. Kim is the 2-A faculty coordinator. He can sit down with you to go through your program to make sure it satisfies all of the requirements and offer suggestions on how to make everything fit together in an optimal way.
- If you are interested in one of the popular tracks (listed under the “tracks” tab) the track advisors may be your best resource. They are experts in the field and can recommend classes that are well-aligned with your goals. Each track lists the track advisor and email address at the top of the page. To meet with a track advisor, please send an email directly to set up an appointment.