What is General Education? Definition, Requirements & A List of Courses for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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College students tend to think of general education subjects as mere extenders to their occupation-appropriate courses (Vander Schee, 2011). This mentality blinds them to how these courses can enhance learning in their chosen academic major. As a result, many students take these courses for granted and fail to fully imbibe what each has to offer. This is often an unhealthy departure from how serious they are with their major subjects.

In reality, general education is more than what it is often perceived to be. Fundamentally, the purpose of education is not to train the students for a specific job but equips them with the skills they need to live life (Walters & Bockorn, 2018). As corporations seek graduates who can lead, communicate, analyze problems, and propose solutions, students need to be immersed in fields that would widen and deepen their perspectives; and such is what is general education for.

This article discusses the basics and complexities of the general education program. Specifically, it lays down the general education meaning, the relevance of general education courses in light of today’s online education trends, the list of general education classes, and the factors to consider in choosing general education classes. By having a better understanding of the general education’s rationale, one can have a more fulfilling journey learning new life skills.

Guide to General Education Table of Contents

1. What is General Education?
2. How relevant are the General Education courses?
3. How can general education courses prepare you for emerging digital roles?
4. List of General Education Classes for 2025
5. How can general education courses impact career adaptability?
6. How can fast track bachelor degree programs benefit from a comprehensive general education curriculum?
7. How can general education courses accelerate degree completion?
8. What challenges might students face with general education courses?
9. What are some tips for choosing the right general education courses?
10. Exploring Cost-Effective Pathways for General Education Courses
11. How can general education courses support advanced academic pursuits?
12. How can general education courses unlock non-traditional career opportunities?
13. How can general education courses foster interdisciplinary innovation?

What is General Education?

Back in the 1800s, when the world ushered in the Industrial Age and a number of new technologies and business models arose, schools and universities designed a new curriculum model that would answer “What should every student know?" This new college curriculum brought together various arts and sciences subjects, bordering between the liberal arts and vocational appeals, to teach students the practicality of knowledge linked to professional practice (Duncan, 2014). Courses in this new model include both the academic major and general education. And by the 20th century, general education programs were widely implemented at the forefront of innovative curricula in colleges and universities (O’Banion, 2016).

What is general education in college? In a broad sense, general education is defined as a program that develops students’ general knowledge, literacy, skills, and competencies to equip them with the foundation for lifelong learning and advanced academic curricula (UNESCO Institute for Statistics, 2012). Basically, this program provides students with a strong educational footing for an undergraduate degree. General education may also be introduced in some institutions as ‘gen ed,’ ‘core curriculum,’ or ‘shared experience’ (Pearson Accelerated Pathways, 2015).

General education degree types consist mainly of courses in the liberal arts, including various disciplines in the arts and humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, mathematics, and sometimes foreign language. So, what are general education courses? Different colleges and universities have different policies for implementing general education requirements. Some institutions prescribe a set of general education courses for a certain academic program; while some incorporate a ‘cafeteria approach’ where students take several courses outside their major (Hothem, 2013). A combination of prescribed and ‘cafeteria-style’ courses is also common in some universities.

Not only do institutions have distinctions in the type of approach they integrate into their general education curriculum, but they also differ when it comes to the number of general education courses they require their students to take. Primarily, the general education curriculum covers a third to a half of a degree. The number of credits it requires can comprise anywhere from 42 to 60 credits of the typical 120 credits needed to earn a bachelor’s degree (Pearson Accelerated Pathways, 2015). These courses under the general education requirements are typically taken during the early years of college life, although some could be offered as third- and fourth-year courses.

How relevant are the General Education courses?

Rooted in the concept of learning as both a formative and transformative process, the general education curriculum is designed to provide students with the essential foundation for lifelong learning. In addition, it develops students’ skills and characters that will help them achieve their academic pursuits and become engaged citizens and ethical leaders in a global society (Vander Schee, 2011). In a way, it can be viewed as thought leadership development through the mastery of foundational subjects. With this, it is only important that the courses under the general education program can expand students’ fundamental knowledge, abilities, and aesthetic sensibilities.

In a sense, the general education program aims to produce a student who:

• can think and write clearly, effectively, and critically, and who can communicate with precision, cogency, and force
• has a critical appreciation of the ways by which we gain knowledge and understanding of the universe, of society, and of ourselves
• has a broad knowledge of other cultures and other times, and is able to make decisions based on reference to the wider world and the historical forces that have shaped it;
• has some understanding of and experience in thinking systematically about moral and ethical problems
• has achieved depth in some fields of knowledge (World Bank, 2000, 84).

Along with these objectives, the program thrives to evolve amid the fast-paced economy. And in the Information Age, being literate is not enough to be successful. The 21st century requires certain skills that today’s students need to flourish in their careers (Stauffer, 2020). The following skills and competencies are what is general education trying to equip students with.

• Learning skills (critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication)
• Literacy skills (information literacy, media literacy, and technology literacy)
• Life skills (flexibility, leadership, initiative, productivity, and social skills)

How can general education courses prepare you for emerging digital roles?

General education courses foster the development of interdisciplinary skills that are increasingly essential in digital and creative industries. By enhancing analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities, these courses equip learners to navigate technology-driven environments and adapt to rapid changes. Integrating foundational coursework with specialized training, such as an online game design degree, enables students to bridge broad-based learning with focused technical expertise. This strategic blend prepares graduates to meet the demands of emerging digital roles and positions them for success in evolving career landscapes.

List of General Education Classes for 2025

Although colleges and universities implement different approaches to the general education curriculum, they commonly offer the same categories of classes to fulfill the requirement (Vander Schee, 2011). Here are some of the groups of courses that prevail among the majority of higher education institutions.

English Language and Literature

Courses under the English Language and Literature category ensure that learners develop their writing, communication, and critical thinking skills taught in various writing degrees. They are also taught to appreciate and critique literature, assuming that these will help them to become more analytical and creative (Liu & Yang, 2017). Colleges typically require three to six credits of English, including the following subjects.

• College composition
• Oral communication
• Literary criticism

Arts and Humanities

By and large, Arts and Humanities consist of a broad range of subjects. Such classes allow students to pursue their interests while they explore a diverse range of human cultures, modes of thought, and bodies of knowledge. Students who take these courses are expected to learn to think critically, express themselves clearly, and analyze new information (Strauss, 2017). Each student is mostly required to take three to six Arts and Humanities credits of the subjects listed below.

• Arts
• Music
• Philosophy
• Religion
• Ethics
• History

Social Sciences

Social sciences courses give the learners in-depth insights into how humans interact with each other and how they develop meaningful relationships. Here, students are taught to build strong analytical and problem-solving skills by adopting qualitative and quantitative approaches to learn more about the human world (Strauss, 2017). Listed below are the subjects that fall under the Social Sciences.

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Anthropology
• History
• Economics
• Political science
• Government
• Geography

Natural Science

Like Arts and Humanities, the Natural Science category encompasses a wide variety of interests. These subjects help students understand and apply scientific methodologies in analyzing empirical data (Lamanauskas, 2013). For this reason, even students pursuing fields outside of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) should possess basic science knowledge in any of the following courses.

• Chemistry
• Biology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Ecology
• Geology
• Environmental science
• Astronomy
• Physics
• Oceanography
• Microbiology

Mathematics

Mathematics helps the students have better problem-solving skills as it encourages logical reasoning and mental rigor. Furthermore, this field of study equips the learners with an effective way of building the mental discipline needed for improving analytical skills (Martin-Raugh, et al., 2016). Given this reason, most degrees require three to six math credits including the following subjects.

• Algebra
• Geometry
• Calculus
• Trigonometry
• Statistics
• Quantitative analysis

Diversity

A number of subjects that were not constituted in the curriculum before are now being introduced to 21st century higher education programs. These include the category Diversity. Diversity courses teach students to value and appreciate other cultures and beliefs, thus, promoting the understanding of diversity. Such subjects provide students with the analytical skills needed to understand issues of diversity, like structural inequalities (Ranaut, 2017). Listed below are the subjects under the Diversity category.

• Cultural diversity
• Social responsibility
• Gender studies
• World religions

Foreign Language

With the continuous globalization of the world’s economy, being proficient in a foreign language is not only beneficial but is also becoming an edge in the professional context. Aside from that, learning a foreign language can help students improve their memory, problem-solving skills, and spatial abilities while also expanding their worldview  (Strauss, 2017). Depending on the college, a number of foreign language courses may be offered, including the following.

• Spanish
• French
• German
• Portuguese
• Japanese

How can general education courses impact career adaptability?

General education courses play a crucial role in preparing students for a rapidly changing job market, equipping them with skills that enhance career adaptability. As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, the ability to adjust to different roles and environments becomes increasingly valuable. Here’s how general education courses help foster adaptability:

• Transferable Skills: General education courses teach essential soft skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, that are applicable across various professions. These skills make it easier for graduates to transition between different industries or roles.
• Cross-disciplinary Knowledge: Exposure to subjects like social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences enables students to approach problems from multiple perspectives, fostering innovation and creativity in the workplace.
• Lifelong Learning Mindset: General education encourages continuous learning, equipping students with the ability to acquire new knowledge and adapt to emerging technologies or shifts in industry standards.
• Cultural Awareness: Courses that focus on diversity and global issues improve cultural competence, helping students navigate and thrive in increasingly globalized work environments.

How can fast track bachelor degree programs benefit from a comprehensive general education curriculum?

Fast track bachelor degree programs demand an accelerated learning pace that benefits from a robust general education framework. A balanced curriculum complements intensive major-specific coursework by cultivating critical thinking, effective communication, and adaptability—not only preparing students for immediate professional challenges but also enhancing long-term career resilience. By engaging with interdisciplinary subjects, learners develop transferable skills that foster innovative problem-solving and informed decision-making in fast-evolving industries. For a deeper exploration of these accelerated pathways, consider the insights provided by our guide on fast track bachelor degree programs.

How can general education courses accelerate degree completion?

Strategic alignment of general education courses with degree requirements can shorten time to graduation. For instance, integrating interdisciplinary courses early not only builds essential skills but also maximizes credit transfer opportunities. This approach minimizes redundancy by enabling students to address core academic needs while benefiting from comprehensive subject exposure. Institutions that offer flexible scheduling and credit-mapping strategies support learners who wish to capitalize on fast-paced educational models, such as an accelerated associate's degree online. Effective planning and tailored academic advising further ensure that a well-structured general education curriculum contributes to expediting degree completion.

What challenges might students face with general education courses?

Students often encounter a perceived disconnect between interdisciplinary subjects and their major-specific interests, which can diminish motivation. Balancing rigorous general education assignments with core major coursework also poses time management challenges. Moreover, some learners may find it difficult to translate abstract methodologies into applicable skills for emerging digital and professional landscapes. Addressing these obstacles through focused academic advising and strategic course selection—such as enrolling in the easiest BA course—can enhance overall academic performance and career readiness.

What are some tips for choosing the right general education courses?

Choosing the right general education courses can be a crucial step in shaping both your academic experience and future career. By selecting courses that align with your goals, explore new subjects, and develop essential skills, you can create a strong foundation for personal and professional growth.

• Align with career goals: Choose general education courses that complement your major or career interests. For example, if you’re pursuing a STEM career, courses in communication, ethics, or social sciences can help you develop valuable skills that go beyond technical knowledge.
• Explore new areas: Take advantage of the variety of subjects offered in general education. This is a great opportunity to explore fields outside your major, which could spark new interests or lead to unexpected career paths.
• Focus on skill development: Select courses that enhance your critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities. These are core competencies valued in any profession and can boost your employability in diverse industries.
• Consider flexibility: If you’re balancing work or other commitments, look for general education courses that offer flexible learning options. Many institutions offer online general education courses, which provide convenience and adaptability.
• Consult advisors: Don’t hesitate to reach out to academic advisors for guidance. They can help you choose courses that align with your personal interests, strengths, and future career plans.

Look ahead to graduate studies: If you're considering further education, such as an online master’s degree, make sure your general education courses prepare you for advanced study. For those interested in affordable options, exploring the cheapest online master's programs can be a great next step.

Exploring Cost-Effective Pathways for General Education Courses

For many students, the financial aspect of completing general education requirements might feel daunting, especially given the rising costs of higher education. Thankfully, institutions now offer various cost-effective pathways to fulfill these obligations without compromising quality.

Online platforms, in particular, have emerged as a viable alternative for students seeking flexible options. Many accredited universities provide general education courses online, combining affordability with accessibility. These options are especially attractive to working students or those balancing multiple responsibilities. Furthermore, students pursuing the cheapest online bachelor degree programs can strategically select general education courses that align with their career goals while minimizing financial strain.

In addition, exploring local community colleges for transferable credits is another budget-friendly strategy. Many community colleges partner with universities, allowing students to complete general education credits at a fraction of the cost before transferring to a four-year program. Similarly, students should consider Advanced Placement (AP) or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests, which can often replace traditional courses and reduce the number of required credits, saving both time and money.

Overall, a well-planned approach to fulfilling general education requirements can significantly reduce tuition expenses, enabling students to invest in other areas of their educational and professional growth.

How can general education courses support advanced academic pursuits?

General education courses refine analytical and research skills crucial for advanced studies by exposing students to diverse methodologies and interdisciplinary perspectives. This broadened academic foundation enables learners to approach complex problems with innovative strategies that are highly valued in postgraduate research. Moreover, such courses can facilitate smoother transitions into specialized graduate programs, including the easiest PhD programs, thereby tightly linking foundational learning with advanced academic goals.

How can general education courses unlock non-traditional career opportunities?

General education courses build transferable skills that are increasingly valued in dynamic sectors where formal degrees may not be mandatory. By honing critical thinking, effective communication, and adaptive problem-solving, these courses enable learners to transition into roles that value practical proficiency over specialized academic credentials. For example, these versatile skills can enhance career prospects in areas like healthcare, where individuals might secure a competitive no-degree healthcare job salary, underscoring the potential of a broad educational foundation in non-traditional fields.

How can general education courses foster interdisciplinary innovation?

General education courses can serve as a catalyst for interdisciplinary innovation by merging diverse perspectives and methodologies across various fields. By engaging with subjects outside their primary area of study, students develop an analytical framework that encourages synthesis of ideas and tailored problem-solving strategies. This cross-pollination of knowledge not only enhances creative thinking but also prepares learners to tackle complex challenges in both academic research and professional environments. Moreover, such an integrative approach can pave the way for pursuing advanced studies, as demonstrated by the opportunities in the easiest master's programs that emphasize a well-rounded educational foundation.

Choosing the Right General Education Classes

Knowing the importance of general education in academic pursuits and beyond, students will find it easier to foster motivation for learning general education classes. With the limited requirements to fulfill and a large number of classes to choose from, students might get stumped on what general courses they should take especially in light of the disruptions shaking up higher learning these days. In picking subjects, one must select courses that pique his/her interest. A student should use the general education course as a learning opportunity. Thus, it will be better to not choose a general education class just because it seems easy. Instead, select those that are not only applicable to one’s major subjects but also those that can truly help in life after college. One should also be able to resolve uncertainties early on. If he or she is into music and technology, for example, “Is the music technology degree worth it?" would be an important question.

While going through the classes, you might discover an academic career is to your liking. In that case, a proper bachelor’s degree in education to go along with an online master’s degree in higher education could well be in your best interest.

Key Insights

• Holistic Development: General education courses are designed to equip students with a broad foundation of knowledge and skills, preparing them for lifelong learning and diverse career paths.
• Skills Beyond the Major: These courses enhance critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness, which are essential for personal and professional success.
• Flexible Curriculum: General education programs offer a variety of subjects, allowing students to explore different fields and interests, making their education more well-rounded.
• Cultural and Ethical Understanding: Courses in diversity, arts, and humanities help students develop a deeper understanding of different cultures, ethical issues, and global perspectives.
• Adaptability: In the fast-paced Information Age, general education helps students acquire skills that are crucial for adapting to changing job markets and societal needs.

FAQ

1. What is the purpose of general education courses?

General education courses aim to provide students with a broad base of knowledge and skills that are essential for personal and professional development. These courses help students think critically, communicate effectively, and understand diverse perspectives, preparing them for various challenges in life and work.

2. How do general education courses differ from major-specific courses?

General education courses cover a wide range of subjects across different disciplines, focusing on broad knowledge and skills applicable in many areas. In contrast, major-specific courses are more specialized and focus on the knowledge and skills directly related to a student's chosen field of study.

3. Why are general education courses important for career development?

Employers value skills such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, which are often developed through general education courses. These courses also help students adapt to different roles and industries, enhancing their employability and career flexibility.

4. How can I choose the right general education courses for my interests and goals?

Select courses that align with your interests and career goals. Consider subjects that complement your major or areas where you want to develop new skills. Consulting academic advisors and reviewing course descriptions can also help you make informed decisions.

5. What are some common categories of general education courses?

Common categories include English Language and Literature, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Diversity, and Foreign Language. These categories cover a wide range of subjects, providing a well-rounded educational experience.

6. How many general education courses are typically required in a college degree?

The number of required general education courses varies by institution but generally comprises one-third to one-half of the total credits needed for a bachelor's degree. This usually amounts to 42 to 60 credits out of the typical 120 credits required.

7. Can I take general education courses online?

Yes, many colleges and universities offer general education courses online, providing flexibility for students to complete these requirements remotely. Online courses can be especially beneficial for students with busy schedules or those who prefer remote learning.

8. How do general education courses help in personal development?

These courses encourage students to explore new areas of knowledge, develop a broader perspective, and enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They also promote cultural awareness and ethical understanding, contributing to well-rounded personal growth.

9. Are there any general education courses that are particularly beneficial for STEM students?

STEM students can benefit from courses in communication, ethics, and social sciences to develop skills that complement their technical knowledge. These courses can help STEM students communicate their ideas effectively, understand the societal impacts of their work, and make informed ethical decisions.

10. How can I make the most out of my general education courses?

Engage actively in the courses, seek to understand how the material applies to your life and career, and take advantage of the diverse perspectives offered. Use these courses as opportunities to develop skills that will benefit you in various aspects of your personal and professional life.

References:

• Duncan, A. G. (2014). General education in the 21st Century: Aspirational goals and institutional practice. [Doctoral dissertation, University of Oregon]. Academia.
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• Lamanauskas, V. (2013). Natural science education importance in adolescence. Journal of Baltic Science Education, 12(4), 396-398. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/291174088_Natural_science_education_importance_in_adolescence
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• Stauffer, B. (2020). What are 21st century skills? Applied education systems. https://www.aeseducation.com/blog/what-are-21st-century-skills
• Strauss, V. (2017). Why we still need to study the humanities in a STEM world. Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/answer-sheet/wp/2017/10/18/why-we-still-need-to-study-the-humanities-in-a-stem-world/
• UNESCO Institute for Statistics. (2012). International Standard Classification of Education. http://uis.unesco.org/sites/default/files/documents/international-standard-classification-of-education-isced-2011-en.pdf
• Vander Schee, B. A. (2011). Changing general education perceptions through perspectives and the interdisciplinary first-year seminar. International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 23(3), 382-387. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ946164.pdf
• Walters, H. D. & Bockorny, K. M. (2018). Relevance of general education: An assessment of undergraduate business students. e-Journal of Business Education & Scholarship of Teaching, 12(3), 34-43. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1203828.pdf
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