CHICAGO – Students in the Class of 2016 at the University of Chicago won't have to prove that they know how to swim.

For almost 60 years, U of C students had to pass a swim test or take a swimming course during their freshman year. The test required students to be able to swim 100 yards using any stroke with no time limit.

In a letter to students last month, Dean John Boyer and Vice President of Campus Life Karen Warren Coleman announced the end of the swim requirement. The university also will no longer require three credits of physical education.