New and continuing students will find a number of new academic programs as the campus continues to add to its innovative offerings.

They include expanded offerings in the Middle East/South Asia studies program, including first-time instruction in Hindi/Urdu and Arabic; a major in science and technology studies; a designated emphasis in pharmaceutical chemistry for chemistry majors; and a pilot program in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences to help freshmen explore career options.

The Department of Theatre and Dance begins two exchange programs with London's Globe Theatre and the Shanghai Theatre Academy. And at the UC Davis Health System, eight postdoctoral biologists are learning how to translate basic research into medical practice through the Integrating Medicine into Basic Science scholars program.

Construction highlights

Several projects are under construction as the campus continues a major building program to meet current and future needs, including:

• Warren and Leta Giedt Hall, north of Kemper Hall, will provide three lecture halls and two smaller classrooms when it is completed next summer;
• The multi-use sports stadium, expected to open in January or February, will accommodate sporting events, commencements and other major events; and
• Construction of the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science on Old Davis Road is expected to be complete in the summer of 2008.