The department is especially proud of its record of providing access to students with strong academic potential. Students can learn in a supportive environment and engage in scholarly activities outside the classroom setting. They can participate in research seminars and colloquia or graduate students' seminars. Each year, the department offers a major lecture series in the spring semester. The program keeps abreast of the needs of potential employers with an advisory board consisting of representatives from industry, City Colleges of Chicago, and Chicago Board of Education.