Study English. Since much of critical thinking is rooted in language, English studies can improve a student's verbal skills. The expository essays and literary studies required by English classes will help stimulate analytical reasoning skills that are necessary for critical thinking. At Pearson, English is a required course for both years, including for non-native English speakers. The second year of English stresses literature and language, media and culture. By analyzing the links between these fields, students will stimulate their critical thinking.
Take philosophy courses. The college's philosophy class exposes students to history's major philosophers and encourages development of philosophical reasoning. By challenging students to engage fundamental philosophical questions, they will develop their critical reasoning and cognition. Pearson College's philosophy course, according to the college website, is based on "the study of ideas" and engages such challenging issues as the existence of God and the human condition -- profound questions of discourse that require critical thinking to approach.
Study biology. According to Northern Virginia Community College, even biological questions can involve critical thinking skills. Biology is not just hard science but involves analytical reasoning and critical thinking. Pearson College's biology course addresses diverse subjects such a molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and human anatomy. The curriculum also addresses underlying questions such as structure, function, diversity and universality, concepts that involve critical thinking to understand. Taking on the fundamental questions of biology and making links between these different fields will likely benefit critical thinking skills.
Enroll in challenging math courses. Mathematics, especially the higher level fields such as calculus, involves a special kind of cognition, and the conceptual challenges of math help build critical thinking skills. Pearson College offers a breadth of opportunities for mathematical study. The standard level addresses number theory, algebra, statistics and financial math, for which critical problem-solving is a necessary component. Higher level math is also offered for more advanced students to develop their mathematical critical thinking skills, such as calculus, trigonometry and geometry. The advanced courses are geared especially for students who want to enter critical thinking-intensive fields, such as physics or computer science.