The Mission of Meredith College General Education

Our mission is to provide a unique signature Perspectives curriculum, a broad education in the liberal arts and sciences, and a focus on academic skills to all Meredith students. Through their active participation in this curriculum Meredith College women will be able to inquire critically, solve problems creatively, make decisions ethically, and communicate effectively. As educated women Meredith graduates will understand that they have the moral responsibility to use their skills as engaged citizens. They will know that local action is their starting point for addressing global problems. Understanding knowledge as complex and ever changing, they will have the courage and curiosity to be adaptable lifelong learners.

General Education + Major/Professional Focus + Electives = Meredith Education

The education that students receive while at Meredith is comprised of three primary components: general education requirements, major / professional requirements and electives.

These three components, combined with many other experiences to be had both on and off campus, help students develop the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to pursue careers, to assume leadership roles, to continue their education, and to live as responsible global citizens.

The Goals of General Education
Meredith’s General Education encourages students to develop a breadth of skills and knowledge for the 21st century, to serve their communities through civic engagement, and to become independent and lifelong learners. Through courses in the liberal arts and sciences, and in their majors, students work toward the following goals.

• An understanding of self, others, and the world,
• The ability to analyze, evaluate, and discover solutions,
• Skills in effective communication,
• A recognition of ethical and responsible behavior in society, the global community, and the natural world, and
• An understanding of the complex nature of knowledge.
  

Learning Outcomes

By completing a rich, coherent general education program that promotes active inquiry, intellectual development, and civic engagement, a Meredith

graduate will demonstrate

an understanding of self, others, and the world through

     knowledge of diverse historical events, literatures, and religious traditions,

     knowledge and use of social and behavioral sciences,

     knowledge and application of natural and mathematical sciences,

     creative expression and appreciation for the arts, and

     participation in physical activity and lifelong wellness behaviors.

the ability to analyze, evaluate, and discover solutions through

     critical reading and thinking skills,

     quantitative skills, and

     creative and collaborative problem-solving skills.

effective communication through

     skill in writing for a variety of purposes,

     facility in oral expression, and

     competence in a foreign language.

recognition of ethical and responsible behavior in society, the global community, and the natural world through

     an understanding of human cultural diversity,

     the ability to reason and act ethically, and

     knowledge of current global problems.

an understanding of the complex nature of knowledge through

     investigation of issues from more than on disciplinary perspective,

     fluency with technology and information literacy, and

     a desire to engage in lifelong learning.

Passed by vote of the faculty

November 14, 2008

Information for Students on Course Requirements, Course Choices, and Learning Outcomes:
General Education:CURRENT REQUIREMENTS                                       

For more information on Meredith’s General Education Program, contact the General Education Office at 919-760-8604 or gened@meredith.edu.