Last week I wrote about revising the curriculum for elementary, middle, and high school. This week I will focus on the college curriculum.
Although the courses one takes depends on what he or she is majoring in (as well as what his or her minor is), the type of degree being sought, and the graduation requirements varying from college to college (and depending on the country, state, province, etc.,) there can still be a revision of the curriculum within higher education.
Let’s start with the general education requirements. The Intro to College course (one credit) is necessary, since it not only introduces the students to the world of college academics, but also serves as a way to guide them as well.
Both English 101 and 102 (which are what these writing courses are referred to at most colleges and universities) are necessary in order to demonstrate their proficiency in writing.
Next, there is the mathematics course. College Algebra is generally the required course at most colleges and universities, although I sometimes wonder if Probability and Statistics can be an alternative (at least for anyone seeking a Bachelor of Arts degree).
Then there are the natural science courses. Most colleges and universities require two of them — usually biology and chemistry. However, I feel that perhaps such a requirement depends on the type of degree, e.g. someone seeking a Bachelor of Arts degree can probably just take one natural science course, while someone seeking a Bachelor of Science can take two natural sciences.
Basic Public Speaking is another essential course, as it teaches individuals how to give presentations, whether it be in front of a handful of people or a large crowd.
History courses are also essential. Students should be required to take two of them, either World History/European History or American History.
Taking two social science courses is also essential. Usually, they consist of one basic psychology course and one basic sociology course.
Most colleges and universities also require another type of English course (usually a literature course), and a religion course (which is said to be lackluster). At any rate, they can probably drop these courses from their general education requirements. The same can be said for any health or physical education courses. By doing so, college students can take more courses towards their major and minor.
Thus, revising the college/university curriculum involves making changes to the general education requirements.
