Faculty of Arts & Social Science

DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL EDUCATION

The rapid expansion of knowledge in a world of many cultures means that for the truly educated, learning must continue throughout life. This places great importance on engaging the mind in many fields, from the fine arts to empirical study and society. This broad encounter with perspectives and knowledge forms the domain of General Education Department. The General Education Department requirements ensure that every graduate of Valley View University acquires the essential core of an undergraduate education that establishes the foundations for living a productive life, being a citizen of the world, appreciating aesthetic values, and engaging in life-long learning in a continually changing world. For this reason, General Education Department courses provide for breadth across the humanities and arts, social studies, biological sciences and physical sciences; competence in communication, critical thinking and analytical skills appropriate for a University-educated person; and investigation of the issues raised by living in a culturally diverse society. The General Education Department requirements emphasize these lofty purposes. These courses permit integrated study across disciplines as well as within them. Specific classes develop abilities vital for the Twenty-first Century, such as the processes of discovering, creating, communicating and appreciating knowledge. Cooperating with other parts of the University, the programme also fosters social maturity and the cultivation of values, civility, and awareness of contemporary issues.

MISSION STATEMENT

The General Education Department provides a broad spectrum and functional curricula with appropriate academic and student support systems that enhance quality education.

GOALS

The goal of General Education Department coursework is to give the students a broad sampling of different academic areas to fulfil the Liberal Arts Educational Philosophy of the University. This sampling exposes them to varied disciplines, increasing the value and breadth of their total undergraduate education. General Education coursework allows them to discover new interests that may open a whole new range of opportunities for further study or career choice. Besides specializing in a major and training for a career, students should become familiar with some of the many rapidly changing disciplines. Through these requirements, Valley View University undergraduates:
• Expand their historical, aesthetic, cultural, literary, scientific, and philosophical perspectives.
• Improve critical and analytical thinking; and learn skills in finding, managing, and communicating knowledge.

GENERAL EDUCATION CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS

Students from all departments are expected to complete General Education Curriculum Requirements as specified by their respective departments. The General Education Requirements for each department is listed by the individual departments. As a result of completing the General Education Curriculum, students will:
• Acquire a foundation of broad-based knowledge of the major questions and methodologies in the disciplines of the liberal arts and sciences;
• Recognize and respect the importance of faith in God as a basis for a meaningful life.
• Attain clarity in values and attain maturity in moral reasoning;
• Appreciate the role of ethics in a just society and understand and respect persons of diverse backgrounds.
• Develop aesthetic appreciation and recognize the importance of maintaining physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
• Demonstrate competency in computation and quantitative reasoning, develop research skills, and develop competency in oral communication skills.
• Develop competency in written communication skills;
• Develop competency in information literacy skills and develop a proficiency in a second language.