Requiring a minimum of nine units, courses in this category focus primarily on accuracy and efficiency of communication. Three mandatory classes are critical thinking, oral communication and written communication. Critical understanding and analysis of information in retaliation to others' ideas is a large part of this course of study. These classes exist to teach students how to consider the ideas of others and answer them respectfully with your own opinion.
Twelve units are necessary to fulfill the historical and cultural requirement. Classes generally include American History, American History - Institutions and Values, World History and Government. The ability to comprehend the struggles and histories of America, as well as other countries is essential for many majors. Additionally, understanding the mechanics of the American government is an important element of general education. These classes are meant to enrich the student in culture and knowledge of global issues.
Courses in this category are broken into three sections -- Mathematics and Natural Science, Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences. A total of 27 units are necessary to complete this requirement. In addition to mathematical skills, appreciation and knowledge of the arts is also acquired in this course of study. Natural and social sciences seek to articulate physical properties of traditional science as well as a theoretical science such as sociology or psychology.
Three units are required from this category. Courses in Lifelong Learning hold the primary objective of understanding and appreciating human life and behavior -- even by analyzing the human being as an organism. Subjects include the influence of human life under various circumstances and commitments to lifelong health. Cultural differences and perspectives are also taken into account to help develop a broader understanding of behavior and decisions made by society as a whole.
Courses available in this category focus on the roles of gender and ethnicity to develop an understanding and appreciation for various cultures and social circumstances. Studies of histories and relationships help to gain a broader image of cultural background. Knowing how different cultures behave can help you to understand how the logic of other cultures may differ from your own. Three units are required.