Understanding General Education (GE) Classes: An Overview for College Students
General Education (GE) classes, also known as General Education courses, form a critical part of a college education. These courses provide a broad foundation of knowledge and skills that are essential for a well-rounded education. Institutions require all undergraduate students to take these courses, regardless of their major, with the goal of fostering critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
What are GE Classes?
GE classes are designed to expose students to a variety of disciplines and perspectives. This exposure helps in developing a diverse knowledge base and the ability to think critically across various domains. These courses cover a wide range of subjects that are foundational to a liberal arts education.
Core Subjects of GE Classes
GE classes often include the following subjects:
Humanities
Literature Philosophy History ArtsSocial Sciences
Psychology Sociology Anthropology Political ScienceNatural Sciences
Biology Chemistry Physics Environmental ScienceMathematics
Courses that cover a spectrum of mathematical concepts from basic to advanced levels.
Communication
Writing courses Speech courses aimed at developing effective communication skillsSpecific Requirements of GE Classes
The specific requirements for GE classes vary by institution. However, they generally aim to ensure that students graduate with a diverse knowledge base and the ability to think critically across various domains. Here is a breakdown of the typical requirements:
History
A few semesters of American HistoryGovernment/Political Science
One or two semesters of Government/Political ScienceEconomics
One or two semesters of EconomicsMathematics
One or two semesters of MathScience
A few semesters of ScienceForeign Language
One or two semesters of a Foreign LanguageFine Arts
A semester or two of a Fine ArtLiterature
A semester or two of LiteratureWriting
One or more semesters of WritingAdditional classes may vary from institution to institution and depend on the degree plan. The philosophy behind GE classes is that an educated person should possess a broad range of foundational knowledge and skills, including critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.