General Education Mission

The mission of the college's general education program is to help students construct a coherent framework for lifelong learning based on intellectual, ethical, social, and aesthetic growth. General education courses are designed to enable students to employ sound analytical practices; to develop skills of research, communication, and quantitative reasoning; to acquire knowledge of ancient and modern civilizations and global awareness; to appreciate cultural diversity; and to exercise social responsibility.

Outcomes of the General Education Program

The General Education Program seeks to ensure that Mount Saint Mary College graduates:

1. Possess communication, problem-solving, and technological skills in a variety of contexts as demonstrated in the ability to:

   1. write a clear, well-organized paper that incorporates relevant details, sources, and examples, while following standards for style, usage, and documentation appropriate to the discipline;

   2. deliver an oral presentation that demonstrates internalized knowledge and understanding of a topic, engages an audience, and makes effective use of appropriate visual aids;

   3. correctly assess graphical and statistical data and use quantitative analysis in the investigation and resolution of contemporary issues;

   4. accurately interpret, analyze, and evaluate evidence, statements, graphics, questions, etc., and use this information to construct well-supported arguments that justify a clearly stated conclusion; and

   5. identify, access, and evaluate relevant sources of information and use technological tools and other resources for organizing, conducting, and presenting research.

2. Acquire and integrate knowledge basic to the understanding of both western civilization and global cultures as evidenced in assignments that demonstrate knowledge of:

   1. representative literary works and how artistic forms such as literature, art, music, or theater convey meaning;

   2. the interdependence of living organisms and their physical environment as well as the role of science in influencing decisions affecting public policy;

   3. the use of the scientific method and an understanding of the major theories and applications of the behavioral, economic, natural, psychological, and sociological sciences;

   4. world culture, including historical events, philosophical and religious traditions, and social customs; and

   5. issues related to diversity and the interconnectedness of cultures, including non-Western and underrepresented groups.

3. Demonstrate through a variety of assignments and activities a life-long commitment to values by:

   1. identifying the Judeo-Christian and other value systems as evidenced in sacred texts, the creative arts, and other literary works;

   2. acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary for supporting ethical judgments based on the application of sound reasoning to everyday life; and

   3. engaging in civic activities, both during and after their academic careers, related to the improvement of their lives and the lives of others in an ever-changing cultural, intellectual, economic, and technological society.