Center for
Regional Programs

The General Education Program

Arkansas State University recognizes the need for every student to obtain general familiarity with the broad areas of knowledge which are a part of our intellectual heritage. To this end the university offers a curriculum of general studies to be included in all programs leading to a baccalaureate degree.

The general education curriculum will expose students to a body of knowledge and aesthetic experiences and values deemed to be of particular intellectual and social significance. It should help students understand the diversity of approaches to knowledge; expanded perceptions, attitudes, and abilities in those areas regarded as integral to a collegiate education; and acquire a broad perspective against which students may view their own specialized studies.

Part of the purpose behind a set of general education requirements is to ensure that students be exposed to a broad range of areas across the curriculum. Therefore, students are to satisfy their general education requirements through courses other than those in their major subject.

The General Education Program is designed to be completed in the first and second years. The requirements in composition and mathematics are to be met before 60 degree hours of course work are completed. The requirements in biological science and physical science are to be met before 60 degree hours are completed if a course listed in the category is a prerequisite for a course listed under requirements of the major.

Students and advisers should check the general education requirements specified by each college for its various majors. Except where modifications are noted for specific degree programs, all baccalaureate degree candidates are required to complete 44 semester hours in the general education curriculum as outlined in THE ASU UNDERGRADUATE BULLETIN 2002-2004.

For questions or comments contact webmaster@cvnj.astate.edu.