TL;DR:
General Education courses form the shared foundation for all students, emphasizing clear communication, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and understanding humanity’s relationship with God and creation. Far from being “basic” requirements, they seek to cultivate intellectual curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a holistic worldview that prepares people for lifelong learning and responsible citizenship.
"The university is a fulcrum with which to move the world."
General Education courses are foundational classes required of all students at Southern Nazarene University. They are not "basics" to be "gotten out of the way." Such a group of required classes is also called a core curriculum or shared educational experience. These courses emphasize coherent writing and other communication skills, quantitative reasoning, creative and responsible interaction with the natural world, an understanding of human identity and relationships—including humanity's relationship with its Creator—and the ways people express themselves through culture.
The subjects covered by General Education courses span the curriculum. They include the sciences, history, government, math, music, art, literature, and communication arts. Four of those courses (or 12 semester hours) are religion courses. Howard Culbertson taught sections of three of these courses:
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for increasing your reading speed."And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
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— Howard Culbertson, hculbert@snu.edu
General education classes at universities involve a broad spectrum of subject matter. They are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education beyond their chosen major or area of study. These classes typically cover subjects such as mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and fine arts.
The primary goals of general education requirements are to develop critical thinking skills, promote cultural literacy, and provide a deeper understanding of the world. By exposing students to diverse disciplines, these courses also spark intellectual curiosity and help students develop a comprehensive knowledge base. Additionally, general education classes often strengthen communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and ethical reasoning. Together, these benefits help prepare students to be engaged citizens and lifelong learners.
