The General Education Program at FGCU consists of 36 hours that students complete by taking two to three courses in the following five areas:

Communication (6 hours)

Mathematics (6 hours)

Humanities (9 hours)

Social Sciences (6-9 hours)

Natural Sciences (6-9 hours)

Details for course options for the 2012-13 Academic Year can be found here: http://www.fgcu.edu/Catalog/genedreq.asp

Our General Education Competencies are skill sets fundamental to student academic success. The competencies are clear, nationally-recognized, and measurable skills that all university graduates should be able to demonstrate (see also: http://www.fgcu.edu/General_Education/learninggoals.html)

Competency 1: Quantitative Reasoning

• Solve mathematical problems;
• Analyze and interpret quantitative data:
• Summarize data into graphic and tabular formats;
• Make valid inferences from data;
• Distinguish between valid and invalid quantitative analysis and reasoning.

Competency 2: Written Communication

• Employ the conventions of standard written English;
• Select a topic, and develop it for a specific audience and purpose, with respect for diverse perspectives;
• Organize and present relevant content with coherence, clarity, and unity;
• Develop research skills including the ability to collect, analyze, synthesize, and accurately present and document information;
• Use appropriate language to convey meaning effectively;
• Apply critical reading skills.

Competency 3: Critical Thinking

• Define an issue or problem using appropriate terminology;
• Select, organize, and evaluate information;
• Identify and analyze assumptions made by oneself and others;
• Synthesize information, and draw reasoned inferences;
• Develp and clearly state a position, taking into account all relevant points of view;
• Formulate an informed and logical conclusion, and test it for viability.

History: Approved by General Education Council on 11/2/05; revised and approved on 4/12/11.