In thinking over what is necessary for a generally well-educated student, the faculty identified two principal goals for the General Education program: to help you (1) locate yourself in your own moment of cultural and intellectual history; and (2) think critically about the books you read, the arguments you confront and the evidence offered for and against theories in the humanities, the social sciences and the natural sciences.
To achieve these two goals, the program is divided into two parts: the first part, called “Foundations,” presents courses that give you the “big picture” about (I) the development of western European and American culture, as well as (II) alternative cultural traditions, and (III) the basic principles animating scientific inquiry. The second part, called “Case Studies,” provides particular opportunities for you to sharpen your critical intelligence by considering specific (IV) applications of science and technology, (V) works of literature, philosophy and art and (VI) contemporary social issues of urgency and importance.
As you look through the courses in each category, try to reach beyond the disciplines with which you are most familiar. Draw broadly from the range of academic expertise at USC and choose a thoughtful, provocative selection of “g” courses as your personal general education program. This academic background will need to serve you well in the future.