Many colleges require courses in the natural sciences and/or mathematics. Natural science courses might include physics, biology, chemistry or anatomy; mathematics courses may include algebra, calculus, geometry or trigonometry. Many schools allow flexibility with a variety of options in these broad categories, and others provide entrance exams to determine which courses would be most appropriate for prospective students. The state of Texas, for example, provides a list of all core classes required at Texas public colleges and universities, which includes statistics and finite math as well as natural science.
Courses in the social and behavioral sciences study social trends and events, both in the past and in contemporary times. Examples from the state of Texas' general curriculum requirements include economics, anthropology, psychology, criminal justice, history and sociology.
Humanities and fine arts courses focus on human achievement and thought, as well as artistic activities and history of art. Classes in this category might include literature, philosophy, humanities, religion, foreign languages, art, music and drama.
In recent years, some colleges and universities have considered making changes to the traditional core classes they offer. Propositions to revise Georgia's University System, for example, occurred in 2008 and included classes on global relations and cultural diversity. Additionally, many colleges offer a core curriculum that is tailored to students' major or that is more suited to the college's particular emphasis (many Christian colleges, for example, require core classes in theology or Scripture).