SJSU Home : Student Information : SJSU Catalog : Policies - 2009 Update : General Education Program : What is the General Education Program?

print mail

Secondary Navigation

Related Information

What is the General Education Program?

A university brings together many separate areas of learning, yet it is more than just a collection of specialized disciplines. The SJSU General Education Program incorporates the development of skills, the acquisition of knowledge, and the integration of knowledge through the study of facts, issues, and ideas. Regardless of major, all who earn undergraduate degrees should share common educational experiences, as they become university scholars. In combination with major, minor, and elective courses, the General Education curriculum should help students attain those attributes found in an educated person.

General Education Program Objectives

Students who complete the General Education curriculum should be able to demonstrate:

• a broad understanding of the sciences, social sciences, humanities, and the arts;
• an ability to communicate ideas effectively both in speaking and in writing;
• the capacity for critical and creative thinking;
• an understanding of ethical choices inherent in human development;
• an ability to assess information (information literacy);
• an ability to address complex issues and problems using disciplined analytic skills and creative techniques;
• multi-cultural and global perspectives gained through intellectual and social exchange with people of diverse backgrounds and experiences;
• the characteristics of “intentional learners” who can adapt to new environments, integrate knowledge from different sources, and continue learning throughout their lifetimes; and
• the capacity to participate as a socially responsible member of civic, professional, cultural, and other communities.

The advancement of academic discourse requires civility and a respectful attitude toward all in the expression and consideration of a variety of viewpoints. All courses shall reinforce the ethical responsibility of students and instructors to acknowledge respectfully the learning styles and forms of expression of individuals and members of all groups.

Page last generated: 11/10/2009 18:13:52

San José State University - Home of the Spartans
One Washington Square - San José, California USA, 95192
408-924-1000