General Education

In keeping with the University's educational mission, all undergraduates are required to complete a program of study that emphasizes the values of what historically has been called "a liberal education." A liberal education consists of developing a range of skills and an introduction to academic disciplines that span the spectrum of human knowledge. This education teaches students to write and think critically, developing a basic understanding of human society and activity in all its dimensions. The courses and experiences included in this program of study provide a solid and broad education that will equip students to become lifelong learners while preparing them to complete a more focused study in the major.

The Common Curriculum (CC) is the twenty-first-century version of the traditional liberal arts curriculum. Through the Common Curriculum, SMU ensures that all undergraduates meet the general education requirements stipulated by the U.S. Federal Government and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Based on these standards, students must complete a general education curriculum consisting of a minimum of 30 credit hours as part of their degree requirements. This general education curriculum ensures breadth of knowledge and introduces students to the humanities and fine arts, the social and behavioral sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics. According to these standards, the courses in general education must not focus on the skills, techniques, and procedures specific to that student's occupation or profession. SMU's Common Curriculum meets these standards while ensuring that students cultivate the knowledge and skills needed to become successful in the workplace and to adapt to the demands of a rapidly changing and increasingly interconnected world.

The Common Curriculum requires most students to complete 34 credit hours of general education. However, students with advanced language proficiency (who can demonstrate appropriate proficiency on an approved proficiency test) may be able to complete their general education curriculum in 30 hours.

SMU faculty, through the Council on General Education, are responsible for determining whether SMU courses meet Foundation, Breadth and Proficiency and Experience requirements.