College of Arts and Science

Degree programs in the College of Arts and Sciences are developed around a set of standards that offer students broad exposure to an area of study along with deep grounding in the student's chosen career field. Students may select a number of free electives to explore their interests, and they are offered elective options directly related to their chosen field. During the program, students explore the basic theories and concepts of their field, related applications, and current research in that field. The College of Arts and Sciences requires all students to complete courses related to research methods and data analysis as part of employment preparation, and to strengthen critical thinking skills and increase information literacy.

General Education

Overview 

South University recognizes the importance for its graduates to be flexible and broadly knowledgeable

, possessing the adaptability and understanding needed to navigate continuously changing technologies, growing diversity, and the rapid pace of social and cultural transformations.   With this in mind, the University has developed general education requirements in communication, mathematics, science, arts and humanities, and social and behavioral sciences, exposing students to a broad spectrum of human knowledge.

South University's general education curriculum seeks to connect a diverse group of students across disciplines to cultivate skills in critical and analytical thinking, information literacy, communication, and ethical standards in diverse contexts.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to: 

  1. Demonstrate effective communication in written, graphic, and oral modes.
  2. Apply analytical reasoning skills in foundational courses.
  3. Demonstrate effective research skills.
  4. Demonstrate the capacity to think critically.
  5. Recognize the importance of ethics, diversity, and cultural competency.

Areas of Study

The general education requirements for South University comprise six areas. Each area represents a set of requirements designed to build basic skills and insights and to assure that each student experiences coursework in each of the areas of knowledge that together comprise the General Education curriculum. It is our belief that these components are directly associated with the qualities defining an educated professional and are necessary to seek entry-level employment in a fast-paced, changing world. The components are designed to reflect the needs and expectations expressed by many employers of college graduates. 

The framework shown below reflects minimum requirements to be met by all South University students at either the associate's or bachelor's degree levels. Programs may identify specific courses needed in that field as a part of the general education program while others may leave choices open to the interests and abilities of the student. The specific areas and course requirements will include the following, but students must check their program for specific courses needed to satisfy general education requirements.

General Education Areas and Approved Courses 

  1. Professional Development
  2. Basic Communications
  3. Mathematics and Statistics
  4. Natural Sciences
  5. Arts and Humanities
  6. Social and Behavioral Sciences

Degrees and Certificates