Why Do You Have to Take Classes Other Than What Your Major Is in College?
When obtaining a college degree, students are often required to take a variety of courses beyond their majors. This is a topic that sparks debate among educators, students, and policymakers. However, understanding the reasons behind these requirements can help us appreciate the true value of a well-rounded education.
Why Colleges Require Non-Majors Courses
The optimist in me believes that these required courses are essential for a well-rounded education. After all, a college degree is not just about gaining expertise in a specific field but also about broadening one's perspective and developing a diverse skill set. Non-major courses can enhance critical thinking, creativity, and social awareness, preparing students for the complexities of the real world.
From a practical standpoint, these courses can also help students fulfill credit requirements, stay on track with graduation timelines, and avoid retaking the same classes multiple times. While it might seem counterintuitive, requiring students to take a variety of courses ensures that they are well-prepared for a range of future opportunities and challenges.
The Cost of College Education
However, the cynic in me acknowledges that these non-major courses can contribute significantly to the high cost of attending college. According to recent data, the average cost of a college education has skyrocketed in the past century, making it a substantial financial burden for many families. In the United States, for instance, the cost of higher education has outpaced wage growth, leading to a greater reliance on student loans.
A century ago, a prospective college student might have gone to an institution to both receive an education and broaden their horizons. Today, with the advent of travel, the internet, and accessible media, learning about the world doesn't necessarily require a college campus. While college remains a specialized place for acquiring in-depth knowledge, it is often seen as more of a career preparation tool rather than a personal development hub.
Modern Challenges and Reassessment
In today's world, the cost of a college education is a major concern. Historically, a state college education cost less than a year's average salary. In contemporary times, the debt burden is staggering, with college debt in the United States estimated at over 1.77 trillion dollars as of November 2023. This figure is larger than the GDP of many countries and highlights the absurdity of current tuition costs.
Given the high financial stakes, it is crucial to reconsider the requirements and courses necessary to attain a degree. When faced with the reality of such a significant investment, it is unfair to force students to take courses they may not enjoy or find relevant to their future careers. If college is intended to foster liberal values, it is inconsistent to require students to pay for courses they do not want or need.
Conclusion
While the necessity of non-major courses is debatable, the cost of a college education is a real and pressing issue. Reassessing these requirements can make higher education more accessible and equitable. By prioritizing educational value over financial burden, we can ensure that students receive the well-rounded education they deserve.
Ultimately, the goal should be to strike a balance between providing a well-rounded education and managing the financial realities of modern higher education. This involves thoughtful curriculum design, financial aid reform, and a deeper understanding of the true value of a college degree in today's world.