Core Curriculum (Columbia College)

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Core Curriculum (Columbia College)

The Core Curriculum at Columbia College is a set of common courses required of all undergraduates. It was established in 1919 and is one of the oldest and most renowned core curricula in the United States. The Core Curriculum aims to provide students with a broad foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, fostering critical thinking, intellectual exploration, and a shared academic experience.

History

The Core Curriculum was introduced in 1919 as part of a broader educational reform at Columbia University. The initial course, Contemporary Civilization, was designed to address the social and political issues of the time. Over the years, the curriculum expanded to include courses in literature, philosophy, art, music, science, and more.

Components

The Core Curriculum consists of several key courses:

• Literature Humanities: A year-long course that explores major works of Western literature from antiquity to the present.
• Contemporary Civilization: A year-long course focusing on significant texts in moral and political thought.
• Art Humanities: A one-semester course that examines masterpieces of Western art.
• Music Humanities: A one-semester course that explores significant works of Western music.
• Frontiers of Science: A one-semester course designed to introduce students to scientific thinking and contemporary scientific issues.
• University Writing: A one-semester course that develops students' writing and critical thinking skills.

Goals

The Core Curriculum aims to:

• Develop critical and analytical thinking skills.
• Foster an appreciation for the humanities, arts, and sciences.
• Encourage intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning.
• Create a shared academic experience that unites students across disciplines.

Impact

The Core Curriculum has had a profound impact on the educational philosophy of Columbia College. It has been praised for its rigorous academic standards and its role in shaping well-rounded, informed citizens. Many alumni credit the Core Curriculum with providing a strong intellectual foundation that has benefited them in their personal and professional lives.

Related Pages

• Columbia College (New York)
• Columbia University
• Liberal arts education
• Great books