General Education Requirement Form

What is the General Education Requirement

The General Education Requirement (GER) refers to a set of courses that students must complete as part of their degree program in many colleges and universities across the United States. These courses are designed to provide a broad educational foundation, ensuring that students acquire essential skills and knowledge across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics. The GER aims to cultivate critical thinking, effective communication, and cultural awareness, preparing students for both professional and personal success.

How to use the General Education Requirement

To effectively utilize the General Education Requirement, students should first familiarize themselves with their institution's specific GER guidelines. This often involves reviewing the course catalog to identify which courses fulfill these requirements. Students can then plan their academic schedules accordingly, ensuring that they meet the GER criteria while also pursuing their major or minor studies. Engaging with academic advisors can provide additional support in selecting appropriate courses that align with both personal interests and degree requirements.

Steps to complete the General Education Requirement

Completing the General Education Requirement involves several key steps:

• Review the institution's GER guidelines to understand the required categories and courses.
• Consult with an academic advisor to discuss course selections and scheduling.
• Enroll in the necessary courses, ensuring a balance between GER and major requirements.
• Complete all coursework and assessments for the selected GER courses.
• Monitor academic progress to ensure all requirements are fulfilled before graduation.

Key elements of the General Education Requirement

The General Education Requirement typically includes several key elements:

• Core Competencies: Development of skills in critical thinking, communication, and quantitative reasoning.
• Disciplinary Breadth: Exposure to various fields of study, including arts, sciences, and social sciences.
• Cultural Awareness: Courses that promote understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives.
• Ethical Reasoning: Encouragement of ethical considerations in personal and professional contexts.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the General Education Requirement usually depends on the student's enrollment status and the specific degree program. Generally, students must be officially admitted to a degree program at an accredited institution. Some institutions may have additional prerequisites, such as completing introductory courses or achieving a minimum GPA. It is essential for students to check their college's policies to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before enrolling in GER courses.

Examples of using the General Education Requirement

Examples of how the General Education Requirement can be applied include:

• A student majoring in engineering may take courses in humanities to enhance their communication skills.
• A business major might select social science courses to better understand consumer behavior and market dynamics.
• A liberal arts student may choose natural science courses to gain a well-rounded education that supports interdisciplinary learning.