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Core Courses

In addition to classes in your major, you will choose courses across various topics, which allow you to explore big ideas, like culture and social transformation, that will cause you to ask “why?” and “how can I make a difference?”

The variety of coursework you’ll take will help you become an effective problem-solver — the kind employers seek. From a breadth of courses, you will learn to skillfully gather information, assess its trustworthiness and draw meaningful conclusions.

Flagged Coursework to Develop You Further

These flagged courses are special core area courses offered as part of the core curriculum and major designed to help students focus and grow specific skills. In a globalized world, employers want culturally competent workers who can appreciate and navigate diverse stories and viewpoints and have the ability to communicate effectively.

Through flagged coursework in the following areas — Writing Across the Curriculum, Global Perspectives and Diversity, Inclusion and Social Justice — St. Thomas sets you up to thrive.

Faculty at a Writing Across the Curriculum working session

Writing Across the Curriculum

The ability to effectively communicate your ideas will help you succeed in any career. That’s why our professors give guidance and feedback to enhance your writing skills, regardless of your area of study. Overall, you’ll take four flagged writing concepts: two in writing-intensive, one writing to learn and one in writing within the discipline.

Students with colored powder on their hands during a Holi event on campus

Global Perspectives

These courses are designed to introduce students to the opportunities and challenges of living in a globalized world. Our world is marked by social, cultural, political, technological and economic interdependence and integrations across local, national and international boundaries — therefore, understanding and integrating global knowledge, perspectives and intercultural competencies is essential to living, working and serving.

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Diversity, Inclusion, Social Justice

The University of St. Thomas believes it is crucial for students to think critically about diversity, inclusion, and social justice if they are to become informed ethical contributors in a diverse society. For graduates of St. Thomas to be fully successful, they must understand the significance of all three: diversity, inclusion, and social justice.

Most Courses are two or four credits

Subject Areas Covered in the Core Courses

English

  • 4 credits 
  • English: Critical Thinking; Literature and Writing 

Learn more about courses offered by the .

Fine Arts

  • 4 credits 
  • Classes range from Intro to Art History to Filmmaking or  

Learn more about courses offered by the , Film Studies, and departments.

Historical Analysis

  • 4 credits
  • Options include courses like Origins of Modern World to 1550 and African American History in Global Perspectives

Learn more about courses offered by the .

Integrations in the Humanities (IH)

  • 8 credits
  • Students take two courses from academic areas that focus on understanding human experiences, cultures, values and meaning. You will be able to choose from courses across many programs to develop your understanding of the “big picture” of human life. 

Learn more about courses offered by the , , , and departments.

Language and Culture

  • 0-8 credits
  • Students will either demonstrate competency through the 211 level of a second language, or take two sequenced courses in a second language.

Learn more about courses offered by the department.

Natural Sciences

  • 4 credits
  • Courses in biology, chemistry, engineering, geology or physics

Learn more about courses offered by the , , ,  or departments.

Quantitative Analysis

  • 4 credits 
  • Courses in mathematics or statistics

Learn more about courses offered by the or Statistics departments.

Social Scientific Analysis

  • 4 credits
  • Options range from Introduction to Sociology to Human Geography

Learn more about courses offered by ; , , , and .

Theology and Philosophy

  • 12 credits
  • Everyone takes Philosophy: The Person and the Good, and Theology: Foundations. Additionally, you will take four more credits ranging from World Religions to Ancient Philosophy .

Learn more about courses offered by the  or  departments.