General Education Requirements
What are general education requirements?
General education requirements, often called gen ed requirements, are courses undergraduate students complete in addition to classes required for their major. These courses introduce students to a variety of subjects and help build a broad foundation of knowledge and skills.
General education requirements vary by college or university and degree program, and students typically complete many of these courses early in their college education.
Why are general education requirements important?
General education requirements give students the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge beyond their primary area of study. By taking courses across different disciplines, students can strengthen important skills such as critical thinking, communication, writing, problem-solving, and analysis.
Gen ed courses can also introduce students to subjects and perspectives they may not otherwise encounter within their major. For students who are still deciding what they want to study, these courses can provide an opportunity to explore different interests while continuing to make progress toward their degree.
Typical subject requirements
General education requirements vary by institution but commonly include courses in:
- Arts and literature
- Communication and public speaking
- English composition and writing
- Humanities
- Mathematics
- Natural sciences
- Social sciences
Students should review the requirements for their specific program and work with an academic advisor when selecting courses.
Can transfer credits fulfill general education requirements?
Yes, previously earned college credits may fulfill some general education requirements, depending on the institution’s transfer policies and how the courses apply to a student’s degree.
At 51ºÚÁÏÍø, eligible credits from accredited two- and four-year institutions may transfer toward your degree. Credit may also be awarded for qualifying Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exam scores. UB will also take your dual enrollment or concurrent enrollment courses that you took while in high school.
Transfer students should have their credits evaluated to understand which courses can be applied toward their degree requirements.
Tips for planning general education courses
Don't think of gen ed courses as simply requirements to check off a list. Use them to explore your interests, complement your major, and build useful skills.
Plan your courses early, balance different subjects and workloads across semesters, and meet with your academic advisor to make sure you’re completing the requirements for your degree.
Explore UB’s undergraduate programs and find the degree that fits your goals.
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