General Education

General Education Mission

The General Education program has been designed to facilitate students’ acquisition and application of knowledge through intellectual stimulation, scientific methodology, information and computer literacy, and communication competencies. Students master problem solving abilities necessary for success in the core curriculum and with application to personal and professional growth and well-being beyond the curriculum.

General Education Philosophy

Courses in the General Education program provide an academic foundation to prepare students for higher level inquiry in their chosen disciplines and prepare them to be responsible, ethical citizens in a global society. Content is constructed to build academic and analytical skills to further enhance educational, professional, and personal development. The program is designed to advance student’s knowledge and skills in reading comprehension, professional writing, and the development of appropriate comportment that is expected in work settings.

General Education Program Learning Outcomes

All undergraduate programs include a general education component. The leaning outcomes for general education are:

1. Demonstrate competent written communication skills
2. Employ effective oral communication skills
3. Interpret quantitative data using mathematical principles to effectively identify core issues and solve problems
4. Illustrate competence in the biological, physical, and natural sciences
5. Locate disparate information through multiple sources demonstrating technological and informational literacy
6. Analyze ideas and make decisions using critical thinking skills
7. Describe and interpret diverse perspectives, value systems, history, cultural traditions, and artistic expression
8. Articulate issues and arrive at a defensible conclusion, given a set of ethical dilemmas

WCYou Experience Requirement (FYS 001)

The WCYou Experience (FYS 001) is designed to support students as they transition to West Coast University, by introducing and connecting them to the culture and expectations of the University through curricular and co-curricular topics created to build a foundation for student success. Within the First Year Seminar (FYS 001) course, students will be provided information about campus services, resources, academic support, student life, and the WCU culture. 

All undergraduate pre-licensure students must take and complete a non-credit WCYou Experience (FYS 001) during the first term. Please note: all undergraduate pre-licensure students must complete FYS 001 by the end of the first term and before progressing into future courses/terms.

Computer Proficiency Requirement

All students must take and complete a non-credit four module Computer Proficiency exam by the end of the first semester.