MPS Orientation Activities & Resources

MPS 1 Class Photo

To help students thrive during their first year at UC Berkeley, we offer resources and events that give students an introduction to academic and campus life. Students who utilize and participate in our activities will enhance their network of mathematicians and scientists, learn how to successfully transition into college life, and gain the skills necessary to develop professionally, academically, and socially. 


MPS Launch Day

MPS Launch Day is a full day event for new first-year and transfer students intending to major in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (Mathematics, Physics, Astronomy, or Earth and Planetary Science). The day begins with a warm welcome, followed by sessions on important divisonal resources and programs. Attendees connect with faculty during the morning panel, then enjoy lunch with MPS student groups. In the afternoon, participants explore career possibilities with an MPS degree, meet fellow students in their major, and experience hands-on lab tours. It’s a day full of valuable connections and opportunities to set everyone up for success.

RSVP for MPS Launch Day 2025

Registration will open in July 2025.

Explore MPS orientation courses & academic resources that are available to students!

Solid Foundations Pre-Calculus Essentials (PCE)

Summer Course

Solid Foundations Pre-Calculus Essentials (PCE)

1 Unit, P/NP (optional)

Berkeley’s Math Department offers Pre-calculus Essentials (PCE), a 3-week course being offered during Summer Session E (July 25 - August 12). PCE was created by faculty in the Berkeley Math Department to focus on the essentials of what you need to know to excel in your first college math courses at Berkeley. The goal of this program is to prepare students for Berkeley introductory mathematics courses. Over a period of three weeks, the course offers live lectures,...

Physics 153: Foundational Course for Physical Science Transfer Students

Fall Course

Physics 153: Foundational Course for Physical Science Transfer Students
1 Unit, P/NP

This course is designed to assist physics and other physical sciences transfer students in their transition to UC Berkeley. Over the course of a semester, students will learn about campus resources, how to navigate the campus, establish connections with other students in their cohorts, receive physics transfer peer mentorship and advising. Students will work in small-groups to solve challenging mathematical and physics concepts to assist with academic success.

This...