Should We Replace Most of College General Education Requirements?

In recent debates about higher education, one common argument is whether the general education requirements in college should be reevaluated and potentially reduced. While some advocate for a streamlined curriculum focused on a specific major, others argue that general education courses are crucial for student development and well-roundedness. This article explores the pros and cons of keeping or reducing these requirements, supported by current educational standards and practical experiences.

Understanding the Current General Education Requirements

Colleges and universities typically require students to complete general education requirements before they can graduate. These requirements are designed to ensure a broad foundation of knowledge and skills, typically covering areas such as communication, natural sciences, mathematics, critical thinking, and social and behavioral sciences.

For instance, the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum requires students to complete 40 credits, which is approximately a third of a standard 120-credit BA/BS degree. However, many of these courses are not unique to general education but are also fulfilled by major requirements. A notable example is a class that satisfies both a global perspective and environmental studies. Such overlap makes the actual contribution of general education courses less than what it appears on paper.

Overlapping Requirements and Practical Application

Many core requirements in different goals overlap. For example, a natural science class can cover aspects of global perspectives, environmental studies, and natural sciences. Similarly, a math or logic class can fulfill goals related to critical thinking and mathematical reasoning. This redundancy means that students might only need to complete a few additional courses to achieve the required number of credits.

Speaking practically, as a graduate of a typical undergraduate program, I find that the skills I gained from my general education courses, such as critical thinking and clear communication, were invaluable in both my career and graduate studies. However, these skills are often honed further when students venture beyond their major coursework.

The Impact on Well-Roundedness

The relevance of general education courses has been questioned, especially in the context of the vast majority of recent graduates who do not enter fields closely related to their majors. This statistic might lead one to suggest that students would benefit more from expending their electives on subjects that are more directly applicable to various career paths.

However, the broader perspective offered by general education courses can help students develop a more flexible and adaptable mindset. They learn to appreciate different disciplines and ways of thinking, which can be invaluable in a rapidly changing job market. Additionally, general education courses can promote a more nuanced understanding of various societal and environmental issues, preparing students to be better citizens and professionals in their fields.

Conclusion

While it's clear that general education requirements add value through interdisciplinary learning and skill development, the effectiveness of these requirements can certainly be improved. By minimizing unnecessary overlaps and focusing on the areas where general education can most benefit students, colleges can ensure that these requirements continue to serve their intended purpose.

In summary, while there is a debate about whether general education requirements should be reduced, the current structure, with its reliance on overlapping courses, can be optimized to ensure that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for both their careers and the broader societal challenges they may face.