Colleges and universities require some form of writing and literature courses, usually around six hours worth. These classes will touch on popular literature and help to improve writing and grammar skills. In nearly all fields proper grammar and writing are necessary to communicate with colleagues and clients. Proficient writing skills will also help in future classes that may require reports and essays. English and writing courses are often taken during freshman and sophomore years.
Colleges also require some math and science courses for degree completion. In general, most non-math and non-science degrees require about eight credit hours of selected math or science courses as required electives. Examples of common courses include human biology, algebra, pre-calculus, and general chemistry.
History and social science are also required general electives in most colleges. This area of coursework includes American history, world history, psychology and economics. Depending on the degree type, most colleges require a minimum of six credit hours in this area of coursework.
Two other coursework areas that are often necessary to obtain a degree are physical education and humanities. Typically only one credit hour of physical education is necessary and includes courses such as track and field, gymnastics and weight lifting. Examples of humanities courses include art history, music and theater. Most colleges require about four credit hours of humanities courses for degree progression.