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Approaches to Knowledge

Courses in this area introduce you to the different ways disciplines (and broad branches of knowledge) ask questions and think about the world. 

These courses are intended to also count towards major requirements. Please check the current Catalog for approved courses in each Area. 

NOTE:  Students enrolled prior to AY 23-24 should refer to their Catalog year for GE Requirements.  


I. AREA A: Life and Physical Science

You must take one Life Science course and one Physical Science course, for a total of two courses. A complete list of courses that satisfy this requirement can be found here

1. Life Science

Develop understanding of scientific principles that govern living systems and organisms and their interactions with the natural world.

2. Physical Science

Develop understanding of scientific principles that govern non-living, physical systems and the methods used to characterize the natural world.

II. AREA B: Social Science, Literary and Textual Analysis, Media and Visual Analysis, Societies and Cultures of the Past

You must take one Approaches to Knowledge: Social Science course and two additional courses from two of the remaining categories, for a total of three courses. A complete list of courses and experiences that satisfy this requirement can be found here

1. Approaches to Knowledge: Social Science

Learn about societies and the relationship of individuals within societies.

2. Approaches to Knowledge: Literary and Textual Analysis 

Learn how language creates meaning and ambiguity.

3. Approaches to Knowledge: Media and Visual Analysis

Explore how media and images create, shape, and express meaning. 

4. Approaches to Knowledge: Societies and Cultures of the Past

Explore the interactions between various aspects of past societies.