Requirement Number 2.7.3: The institution requires in each undergraduate degree program the successful completion of a general education component at the collegiate level that is (1) a substantial component of each undergraduate degree, (2) ensures breadth of knowledge, and (3) is based on a coherent rationale. For degree completion in associate programs, the component constitutes a minimum of 15 semester hours or the equivalent; for baccalaureate programs, a minimum of 30 semester hours or the equivalent. These credit hours are to be drawn from and include at least one course from each of the following areas: humanities/fine arts; social/behavioral sciences; and natural science/mathematics. The courses do not narrowly focus on those skills, techniques, and procedures specific to a particular occupation or profession. The institution provides a written justification and rationale for course equivalency.

Full Compliance

A strong general education program is one of the defining characteristics of the University System of Georgia. Within the Core Curriculum structure, framework, and rationale provided by the University System of Georgia, institutions design general education programs that adhere to Core Requirement 2.7.3. The Core Curriculum must consist of 60 hours (½ of the 120-hour undergraduate program) structured with the following categories and credit hours: Essential Skills (two English Composition classes and one Mathematics class - 9 hours), Institutional Options (4-5 hours), Humanities/Fine Arts (6 hours), Mathematics/Science/Technology (including 2 laboratory science courses – 10-11 hours), Social Science (12 hours), and Courses Related to the Major Field of Study (18 hours at the lower division level). Section 2.04.01 of the Academic Affairs Manual contains the following statement: “Since the aim of the core curriculum is to provide students with a broad background in general education, neither Core areas A-E nor specific courses may be designed or required for special groups of students such as those within programs, departments, schools, or colleges within universities.” The full policy on the Core Curriculum appears at http://www.usg.edu/admin/accaff/handbook/section2/2.04/2.04.phtml. Georgia Southern’s Core Curriculum complies fully with Board policy and Core Requirement 2.7.3; a complete list of courses appears at http://www.firstyear.georgiasouthern.edu/sems/cc.htm.