Although challenging major classes are sometimes inevitable, you can consider taking the following manageable GE classes to make your semester less tough. The following recommendations are based on students’ comments and surveys derived from Bruinwalk and similar platforms.
1. Anthropology 4
GE foundation category: Foundations of Society and Culture – Social Analysis
Why it’s recommended: Many students found the class manageable; an anonymous interviewee even said it’s “incredibly easy.” Another anonymous reviewer on Bruinwalk found the class to be interesting. This is the most recommended class among survey respondents.
(Grade distribution unavailable)
2. Anthropology 3
GE foundation category: Foundations of Society and Culture – Social Analysis
Recommended Professors: Yun Xiang Yan
Why it’s recommended: According to statistics from the Winter 2021 quarter, about 80% of the class got an A or higher (UCLA Registrar’s Office). Most students found the professor to be very nice and clear during lectures. The weekly reflection is easy and the exam is reasonable.
3. Physiological Science 5
GE foundation category: Foundations of Scientific Inquiry – Life Sciences & Laboratory/Demonstration credit
Recommended Professor: Joseph Esdin
Why it’s recommended: According to statistics from the Winter 2021 quarter, about 80% of students got an A or higher (UCLA Registrar’s Office). Most students found the professor to be friendly. According to comments on Bruinwalk, assignments can be boring but manageable, exams are okay and not challenging as long as you take good notes and the final project is easy.
4. Musicology 5
GE foundation category: Foundations of Arts and Humanities – Visual and Performance Arts Analysis and Practice
Recommended Professor: Jessica Holmes
Why it’s recommended: According to statistics from the Fall 2020 quarter, over 80% of the students got an A or higher (UCLA Registrar’s Office). Students found the class engaging and interesting. The professor is awesome and understanding and assignments are stress-free.
5. History 12B
GE foundation category: Foundations of Society and Culture – Historical Analysis & Foundations of Society and Culture – Social Analysis
Professor: Robin Kelley
Why it’s recommended: According to statistics from the Fall 2020 quarter, about 80% of the students got an A or higher (UCLA Registrar’s Office). Anonymous reviewers on Bruinwalk stated that there is no midterm or final and that assignments account for the entirety of the grade. One student also stated that “the professor is nice and wants to connect to students.” Overall, the class is not extremely easy but is still a good choice for fulfilling GE requirements.
