The Core Curriculum is also available for download in PDF format.

The Core Cirriculum is also available for download in PDF format

On This Page

Why Study The Core? Core Curriculum: An Overview

Core Courses:

Theology Philosophy English Foreign Language
History Communication Arts Fine Arts Science
Mathematics Computer Literacy Social Sciences Scholars Program

 Studying the Core Exemptions to the Core


WHY STUDY THE CORE

In September 2000, Caldwell College began a two year review of its Liberal Arts and Sciences Core Curriculum. Since the College’s founding, the Core Curriculum has served as the basis of the baccalaureate education. The Core has been regularly reviewed and modified to adapt to changing academic and social needs. At the same time, the Core Curriculum has always affirmed Caldwell’s commitment to a well-rounded liberal arts education as well as its commitment to its Catholic Dominican tradition. The most recent review has resulted in a revised core program that continues this tradition.

The Core Curriculum is designed to meet the goals of a liberal arts education. It gives students a perspective and an informed acquaintance with the major branches of learning: the humanities; the physical and biological sciences and mathematics; and the social sciences. Thus, the core focuses on:

  • Communication skills
  • Second language familiarity
  • Research and computer competencies
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Social and psychological understanding
  • Western heritage
  • Music and world art
  • Theological studies
  • Philosophical and ethical awareness

The Core is designed to develop critical thinking to challenge students intellectually , to promote an appreciation for diverse cultures and to increase moral and civic awareness. The Core integrates Writing Across the Curriculum to strengthen students’ writing ability in all disciplines.

The Core Curriculum affirms the importance of the liberal arts. A solid grounding in the liberal arts offers career preparation that transcends the specifics of professional and technical skills. The essential knowledge, intellectual skills, sensitivities and creativity of the liberally educated person will never become obsolete.


CORE CURRICULUM: AN OVERVIEW

THEOLOGY (9 credits)
TH101 Religion: Experience and Tradition
(1) 200 level course
(1) 300 level course

PHILOSOPHY (6 credits)
PH102 Introduction to Philosophy
(1) additional philosophy course

ENGLISH (6 credits)
EN111 Literary Types and Themes
or EN320 Writing Power
or EN119 and EN120 ESL Advanced Composition I & II
(1) Literature course

FOREIGN LANGUAGE
(6 credits at 100-200 level or 3 credits at 300-400 level)
Non-native Speakers EN124 and EN125

COMMUNICATION ARTS (2 credits)
CO215 Public Speaking
or EN110 Speaking for Success
or DR102, 103, 104 Drama in Performance
(one of the designated Drama in Performance courses)

HISTORY (6 credits)
HI101/102 Western Heritage I-II

FINE ARTS (6 credits)
MU122 Language of Music or approved alternate
AH122 Language of World Art or one course in art history or studio art

SCIENCE (6 credits)

MATHEMATICS (3 credits)

COMPUTER SCIENCE (3 credits)

SOCIAL SCIENCES (6 credits)

TOTAL STUDENT DEVELOPMENT (1 credit)

 

 

As this overview makes clear, the core curriculum balances areas of traditional liberal learning such as literature, philosophy and mathematics with areas of modern inquiry such as computer literacy and the social sciences. Though broad and diverse, these essential areas of knowledge are, in fact, interconnected, as students will realize as they progress through the curriculum. On the following pages, a brief rationale for the core curriculum requirements along with course descriptions and objectives for all general education courses are given.

Writing Across the Curriculum

Students will be required to complete two Writing Intensive courses. A Writing Intensive course is designed to foster excellence in writing and the development of critical thinking skills while improving comprehension of course material. Writing tasks will be significant and frequent, including opportunities for feedback and revision.

Notations:

Students who transfer to Caldwell College with a minimum of 30 credits will have the Writing Across the Curriculum requirement waived.

Adult undergraduate students are exempt from this requirement.


THEOLOGY

Theology is at the heart of the mission of the College and the wisdom of every discipline. Courses foster in students a deep appreciation of Christian ideals of living and a true sense of responsibility to self and others. Courses have been designed to enable students to study, reflect upon and clarify the meaning and purpose of religion, Christian values and moral decision making, and the Catholic theological tradition.

In their first theology course, TH101 Religion: Experience and Tradition, students will reflect on the religious dimension of the human experience, explore the meaning and function of religion, identify basic religious questions, such as the problem of evil and notions of God, salvation, forms of ritual, scripture and community as expressed in major religious traditions.

Upper division courses: (200 level) explore Christian values and the process of moral decision making; (300 level) pursue in depth the biblical and the Catholic theological traditions.

Requirements: (9 credits)

  • TH101: Religion: Experience and Tradition
  • (1) 200 level course
  • (1) 300 level course

NOTATIONS:

Theology courses are to be taken in sequence, i.e., TH101, a 200 level course, then a 300 level course.

All 400 level courses are electives and will not fulfill the core requirement unless an exception is authorized by the Chair of the Department of Theology/Philosophy.

Students who transfer to Caldwell College with a minimum of 30 credits advanced standing may have one (1) theology course waived.


PHILOSOPHY

Philosophy encourages critical examination of what we think we know. Thus, it holds a central place in the core curriculum. Philosophy has been called "mother of disciplines," for we can trace how most other disciplines were born of philosophy and how, when, and why they matured and developed.

Through their studies in PH102 Introduction to Philosophy, students gain basic familiarity with the philosophers and philosophies that are important in debating questions of perennial human concern. An historical overview of philosophy includes primary selections from the ancient, medieval and modern periods. The student is introduced to the whole spectrum of philosophical concerns about knowledge (epistemology), reality (metaphysics), ethics, human nature, reasoning (logic) and God.

Students will be encouraged to explore the various positions that have been held on important philosophical issues and to begin to make intelligent and reasonable choices about values.

The second philosophy course is left to the student’s choice. Course offerings are designed to introduce students to the great questions and the various answers given them from the Greeks to the present, and enable students to delve in greater depth into major questions and issues of broad significance.

Requirements: (6 credits)

  • PH 102 Introduction to Philosophy
  • (1) 200 level course or 300 level course

NOTATION:

Philosophy courses are to be taken in sequence. i.e. PH102, a 200 or 300 level course

All 400 level courses are electives and will not fulfill the core requirement unless an exception is authorized by the Chair of the Department of Theology/Philosophy.

B.F.A. majors are required to enroll in AH/PH324 Philosophy of Art to satisfy the second philosophy requirement.


ENGLISH

In EN 111 Literary Types and Themes, students develop critical skills in reading and interpretation which they apply to the literary, ethical, and cultural dimensions of a broad range of literature. Students articulate, both orally and in writing, ideas encountered in this reading, being steadily directed to the refinement of practical writing skills, including research, composition, and documentation of a research paper. Students gain competence in using technology appropriate to these goals.

The second English course must be a literature course. The study of literature develops insight and sensitivity to character and values, introduces students to portions of our literary and cultural heritage, and forms the foundation of a liberal education.

Requirements: (6 credits)

  • EN111 Literary Types and Themes
    or
  • EN320 Writing Power (by placement)
    or
  • EN120 Composition-Advanced II (Pre-requisite: EN119 Composition Advanced I)
  • (1) Literature course

NOTATIONS:

EN111 Literary Types and Themes

A prerequisite to the course is a satisfactory score on a college placement test. Students who do not meet the required standard on the English Placement Examination are placed in EN101 Basic Composition in the first semester. EN111 Literary Types and Themes is taken in the following semester.

Students who show extraordinary writing proficiency on the English Placement Examination may be exempt from EN111 and enrolled in EN320 Writing Power.

One (1) literature course:

EN111 or its equivalent is a prerequisite for all English classes. Students may choose any literature course in which they are interested. Although 200 level courses have been specifically designed to fulfill core requirements, students able to meet the demands of more specialized courses may choose any upper division literature course in which they are interested.


FOREIGN LANGUAGE

The objectives of the foreign language requirement are twofold: linguistic and cultural. Linguistically, the goal of the requirement is to insure competency in a second language. Students will be introduced to a communication system other than their own with emphasis placed on oral competency.

Further, students will become familiar with a culture other than their own. This awareness will help them to understand the differences in perspectives that exist between various cultures and to avoid parochialism and stereotyping. It will develop their understanding of cultural diversity, guard against insularity, and foster tolerance. This development of cultural breadth is a moral as well as a practical obligation in a global world and economy. Finally, this cultural awareness will enable students to understand better their own culture and value system, and to develop new perspectives and insights.

Requirements: (6 credits at any level)

  • FR101-102 Elementary French or FR201-202 Intermediate French
  • GE111-112 Elementary German or GE201-202 Intermediate German
  • IT101-102 Elementary Italian or IT201-202 Intermediate Italian
  • SP101-102 Elementary Spanish or SP201-202 Intermediate Spanish
  • JA101-102 Elementary Japanese or JA201-202 Intermediate Japanese
    or
  • other approved language

It is also possible to fulfill the core with a 102-201 sequence, by placement, or one 3-credit course in French, Italian or Spanish at the 300 level or above if student qualifies (see “Notations”).

Students whose native language is not English may fulfill the foreign language requirement with EN124 and EN125 Advanced Grammar I and II. Placement is based on testing.

Notations:

We encourage students to continue the language studied in high school at the appropriate level, ie., four to five years qualifies for the advanced level (300 & 400 level). Students who qualify can fulfill their foreign language core requirement by taking one three credit course numbered 300 level or above. If a student with two or more years of language in high school wishes to continue that language, only the intermediate level or above will fulfill the core. These students may take the elementary level for elective, but not for core credit. However, students also have the option of starting a new language at the elementary level.

Adult undergraduate students may fulfill the core with either two semesters in language or two semesters in “Language and Culture” courses.

Three credit “Short Study Abroad” courses, that include an academic component, will count toward the core if the first semester of the language was taken at Caldwell.

Medical Technology majors are exempt from the foreign language requirement.

Foreign language majors are required to meet the core language requirement, in addition to their major requirement. This can be done in a number of ways, e.g., through six credits of a second language, through an extra 300 or 400 level course in their major, or through three credits of linguistics (LA301 Introduction to Language). Consult the Department Chair for individual options.

Up to six credits may be awarded for successful scores on the AP exams, CLEP tests or the NYU Foreign Language Proficiency Exam at the appropriate levels. Credit by examination will only be awarded within the first year (30 credits) of matriculation.


HISTORY

Historical consciousness, especially of the western tradition, is a key ingredient of a liberal education. The study of history helps to make the world comprehensible. It exposes students to the roots and development of human civilization, heightens political awareness, fosters an understanding of causation and social change, and imparts an appreciation for how the past has shaped the present.

HI101-102 The Western Heritage I-II, taken in sequence early in the student’s academic career, provides an essential framework for locating all areas of western activity and achievement. It provides the essential backdrop against which every other course makes sense. Objectives of the course include: cultural literacy, knowledge of chronology and periodization, awareness of historical methodology, sensitivity to the relationship between the past and the present, understanding and knowledge of the Western tradition, and recognition of the distinctiveness of that tradition in contrast to the Oriental, Islamic and African perspectives.

Requirements: (6 credits)

  • HI101 - HI102 The Western Heritage I & II

COMMUNICATION ARTS

One hallmark of the well educated person is the ability to speak clearly, coherently and cogently. Speech skills are crucial in daily life in both personal and professional situations. Through training in public speaking students learn proper techniques for effective oral presentations of information. In addition, preparation for speeches develops awareness of political and cultural issues as well as developing students’ skills in research, logic, writing and the organization of information. In CO215 Public Speaking, three primary types of public speaking will be examined: original oratory, extemporaneous speech and oral interpretation. Students will do a performance from each type which will be videotaped, played back and critiqued.

Requirements: (2 credits)

  • CO215 Public Speaking
    or
  • EN110 Public Speaking Success (for non-native speakers of English)
    or one of the following:
  • DR102 Great Drama in Performance
  • DR103 Modern Drama in Performance
  • DR104 Shakespeare in Performance

NOTATION:

Adult undergraduate students are exempt from this requirement.


FINE ARTS

An informed experience of art and music is an essential component of the liberally educated person. The study of art and music provides access to the language of cultural expression, enabling students to value and explore the diversities of human endeavor. The primary goal of each course is to develop students’ visual and musical literacy.

ART REQUIREMENTS: (3 credits)

Any of the following courses can be used to satisfy the core requirement in fine art.
1. Any art history (AH prefix) course.
2. The following studio (AR prefix) courses:

  • AR111 Drawing I
  • AR113 2D Design
  • AR118 3D Design
  • AR280 Painting I
  • AT/PS230 Introduction to Art Therapy

MUSIC REQUIREMENTS: (3 credits)

MU122 Language of Music or one of the following approved course substitutions:

  • MU220 Jazz History
  • MU240 American Music
  • MU250 Women in Music

NOTATIONS:
Music majors are exempt from the core requirement in music.
Art majors are exempt from the core requirement in art.


SCIENCE

A basic knowledge of scientific method and terminology is an indispensable part of a broad liberal education in a highly technological society. Students fulfill their science core requirement with six credits in the sciences, two groups of courses in the Natural and Physical Sciences. All of the science core courses are designed for non-science majors. Each provides students with an informed acquaintance of the essential principles of the discipline and each relates the science to humans within their environment.

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES:

BI103 AND BI103L Biological Principles and Biological Principles Laboratory provide scientific principles and concepts so that students may develop a working knowledge of biology. The course covers the entire field of basic biology; however, it emphasizes the application of this knowledge to human concerns.

BI106 Ecology seeks a general awareness of the natural environment and its complexities. Nature is viewed as a whole. The structure and dynamics of populations, communities, and ecosystems express the activities of and interrelationships among the organisms they comprise. The ultimate goal of ecology is to gain the intellectual gratification that comes from understanding natural patterns and processes and to apply that understanding to global problems confronting mankind today.

BI109 Marine Biology familiarizes the student with the diversified forms of marine life within their varied environments and with how they interact with each other. The ultimate objective of the course is to help students develop an awareness, appreciation and significant understanding of oceanic life, enabling them to scientifically evaluate the human’s role as friend or enemy to this unique environment.

BI110 The Human Body provides a basic understanding of the structure and function of the human body. Students will become familiar with the terminology related to anatomical and physiological features and will be able to apply such knowledge to everyday living.

NP107 Global Environmental Sciences examines the environmental consequences of human activities on the Earth. Topics include population and demographic pressures, food imbalances, energy, pollution, resources, environmental health, and the economic and
political entanglements involved.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES:

CH105 Survey of Everyday Chemistry introduces the student to chemistry that is important to non-science majors. The course focuses on nuclear, medicinal and agricultural sciences, as well as contemporary problems associated with pollution, nutrition and biochemicals.

PY101 Survey of the Physical Sciences familiarizes students with the basic concepts and vocabulary of the physical sciences of astronomy, chemistry, geology and physics. An objective of the course is to make a clear distinction between science and technology in an effort to show the impact of society’s decisions on how scientific discoveries are used. The ultimate objective is for students to gain media science literacy by critiquing media presentations about scientific discoveries.

PY104 Astronomy studies the solar system, stars and galaxies; their characteristics and the physical laws that govern their movement in space, the source of their energy and various celestial phenomenon.

PY109 Science Within the Law examines the role of physical science in criminal investigations and government regulations. This course stresses scientific principles and how those principles are utilized within the legal community.

Requirements: (6 credits)

Choose one course from each of the following categories:

Biological Sciences:   Physical Sciences:  
Course:
Credits
Course:
Credits
BI103/BI103L Biological Principles/Lab
4*
CH105 Survey of Everyday Chemistry
3
BI106 Ecology
3
PY101 Survey of the Physical Sciences
3
BI109 Marine Biology
3
PY104 Astronomy
3
BI110 The Human Body
3
PY109 Science Within the Law
 3
NP107 Global Environmental Sciences
3
 
 

*BI103/103L Biological Principles/Lab is required for students pursuing elementary education certification. It incorporates one hour of lab prep and two hours of lab. These students will be teaching basic science and need more extensive exposure.

NOTATIONS:

Biology, Chemistry and Medical Technology majors are NOT required to take any of the core science courses listed above. Instead, they will take courses introductory to the disciplines, BI101 and BI101L General Biology and Lab, and CH111 and CH111L General Chemistry and Lab.


MATHEMATICS

Mathematics permeates every aspect of our daily life and is the foundation of work in such diverse fields as science, economics, and psychology. All students should have both a realization of the role played by mathematics and a working knowledge sufficient to carry
them confidently through their careers and future lives.

The choice of course to meet the core requirement in mathematics depends upon: a) results of a college administered mathematics placement test; b) secondary school preparation; and c) potential major. Students are assigned to a developmental course, a 100 level course or a 200 level course.

Students whose scores on the College placement test indicate weakness in computational skills and/or elementary algebra must successfully complete MA085 and/or MA090 (non-degree credit) before the core satisfying math course can be taken. Students may
not withdraw from these developmental courses.

One of the following courses can be used to satisfy the core requirement in mathematics.

Requirements: (3 credits)

MA112 Concepts of Mathematics is typically the core-satisfying course for all non-mathematics and non-science majors, although they may satisfy the math requirement with any of the courses listed here. The primary objective of MA112 is to introduce the central concepts in a variety of areas of mathematics; these areas include probability, statistics, the algebra of functions, topology, and consumer mathematics. The course develops a problem-solving ability that combines creative thinking skills with deductive and inductive reasoning. The practical uses of mathematical techniques and concepts in everyday life is discussed. Students learn to appreciate the role of mathematics in the development of our contemporary society and explore relationships among mathematics and the disciplines it serves.

MA120 Applied Mathematics for Business and Social Sciences is recommended for students with proficiency in intermediate algebra and interest in mathematical techniques applicable to problems in business and the social sciences.

MA130 Foundations of Analysis I is recommended for students with proficiency in intermediate algebra and interest in extending their knowledge of algebra and the study of functions. Along with MA131, it is the prerequisite for Calculus. It is the required core course for science and medical technology majors. If a student places out of MA130, then MA131 Foundations of Analysis may be used to satisfy the core requirement.

MA140 Discrete Structures is the required core course for computer science and computer information systems majors.

MA220 Calculus I is recommended for students with a strong mathematical background that includes trigonometry. MA220 is recommended for business, computer science and science majors planning to attend graduate school. If a student places out of MA220, then MA221 Calculus II may be used to satisfy the core requirement.


COMPUTER SCIENCE

As we enter the 21st century, being broadly educated mandates that all students be acquainted with basic concepts of computer technology and that they be aware of the social and ethical issues raised by this technology.

CS115 Introduction to Computer-Based Systems introduces the concepts of computer technology through an understanding of computer functioning, capabilities, and terminology. Considers the impact of computers on society and their diverse applications. Includes laboratory work involving Windows, spreadsheets, presentation management, database management, and introduction to the Internet.

REQUIREMENTS: (3 credits)

The following course may be used to satisfy the computer science core.

  • CS115 Introduction to Computer-Based Systems

NOTATIONS:
Students majoring in mathematics, music and art are not required to take a computer science course since computer courses are required for their major. Students may test out of CS115 by demonstrating equivalent knowledge by examination. Students who test out of this course are not required to take any other computer science course in its place.

However, students who test out and are interested in taking another computer literacy course are strongly recommended to take one of the following:

  • CS219 Business Spreadsheet Applications explores the basic concepts in using software designed for decision making and management activities.
  • CS230 Emerging Technologies — Web Page Design focuses on evolving trends in global communication and developing Web pages.

SOCIAL SCIENCES

An understanding of social and cultural aspects of human behavior marks the liberally educated person. Through the social sciences–economics, political science, psychology, sociology and anthropology–we gain insights into diverse cultures and into the development and workings of the self, social groups, and social institutions. The perspective of each social science is unique but the broad focus is common. Each offers a systematic attempt to discover and explain behavior patterns of people and groups of people.

AN225 Cultural Anthropology is concerned with the whole of humanity in all times and places. By exposing students to a variety of cultures and societies different from their own, students not only acquire an attitude of cultural relativism, but gain a perspective from which to better understand their own culture and society. Practical applications reveal how anthropology can assist in solving the problems of the modern world.

BU101 Survey of Economics introduces students to the essentials of economics and how economics affects households, businesses and government. Topics include concepts of supply and demand, savings and investments, and the production, distribution and consumption of goods and services. Students gain a moral, ethical and practical perspective in exploring the dynamics of economic change occurring in world markets and its impact on populations and governments.

PO125 Understanding the Political World develops critical awareness and an understanding of the role of politics in a global society. It is a cross-national analysis of the major issues, topics and institutions with which politics deals, and that are fundamental to an accurate understanding of contemporary political life worldwide. As students develop an understanding of how politics works, they will be able to assess and evaluate political claims and controversies reported in the media and to recognize who exercises political power and for what purpose.

PS150 General Psychology I introduces the main theories, methods, and principles of psychology. This course is a social sciences Liberal Arts core requirement for all students who wish to become Psychology majors and is required for further study in the field. Topics will include a brief history of psychology, critical thinking, careers in psychology, basic research and statistics, human development, personality, psychopathology, motivation, emotions and stress, and basic principles of learning.

SO101 Introduction to Sociology I: Foundations provides students with a unique perspective from which to view the self as a social product. The course examines culture, groups, conformity and deviance, and the significance of social class, race, and gender in our culturally diverse society. Sociological principles are applied to an analysis of current events and social issues. Thus, students grow in their understanding of themselves, the groups to which they belong, and the society in which they live.

REQUIREMENTS: (6 credits)
Choose any two of the following:

  • AN225 Cultural Anthropology
  • BU101 Survey of Economics
  • PO125 Understanding the Political World
  • PS150 General Psychology I
  • SO101 Introduction to Sociology I: Foundations

NOTATIONS:

Business majors may NOT take BU101 Survey of Economics to fulfill a core requirement.

Psychology majors must take PS150 General Psychology I to fulfill a core requirement.

Sociology majors MUST take SO101 Introduction to Sociology I: Foundations to meet one of their social science core requirements. SO101 does NOT meet requirements for the major. Sociology majors may NOT take AN225 Cultural Anthropology to meet the second social science core requirement. They may, however, take this course as an elective toward the requirements for the sociology major.

Political Science majors MUST take PO125 Understanding the Political World to meet one of their social science core requirements. PO125 does not meet requirements for the major.

For Social Studies majors, certain social science core courses may also be taken to fulfill major requirements. However, courses taken from the cluster of social science core courses for requirements toward the major may not simultaneously be used to meet the core requirements. Please see requirements for the major.

Non-native Speakers of English may, with permission, satisfy one Social Science requirement by substituting EN/AN140 Current Topics in American Culture for AN225 Cultural Anthropology.

Education majors/certification students MUST satisfy the core requirements with:

  • PS209 Prenatal/Infant Psychology (Special Ed./P–3/K–5)
  • PS211 Child Psychology (All Education majors)
  • PS216 Adolescent Psychology (Grades 5–8/K–12/Special Ed. K–12)

and one of the following:

  • SO231 Sociology of Poverty
  • SO323 Sociology of Racial and Cultural Groups
  • SO343 Sociology of Education
  • SO425 Sociology of Gender
  • SO474 Contemporary Social Problems
  • SO476 Urban Sociology

SCHOLARS PROGRAM

Students who maintain a 3.3 G.P.A. and who apply and are accepted into the Scholars Program may use Scholars seminars for their core requirements. Qualified incoming freshmen are also eligible for participation in the program.

The appropriate core substitution is usually determined by the department of the faculty member teaching the seminar. For example, if a professor from the English department is teaching a Scholars seminar and if a student needs a core literature course, the Scholars seminar fulfills part of the English core requirement. However, some courses have multiple core substitution possibilities. The substitutions will be noted on the advising module as “MS.” If a student takes a seminar and has already met the core requirement that
corresponds to it, the course is credited as an elective. New seminars will meet core requirements in a similar manner.

NOTATIONS:
The Honors Project does not count as core.
For further information or to apply to the Scholars Program, visit the Scholars Program web page.
Specific course substitutions for the core are on the Web page and in the College catalog.


STUDYING THE CORE

While all of the requirements in the core curriculum are equally weighted in terms of their value to the student’s liberal education, some courses are considered so foundational to the total educational experience that they must be completed early in the student’s college career.

THE FOLLOWING CORE REQUIREMENTS ARE TO BE COMPLETED WITHIN THE FIRST FOUR SEMESTERS OR SIXTY (60) CREDITS:

  • EN111 Literary Types and Themes (First semester or immediately following EN101)
  • Mathematics
  • Foreign Language
  • HI101 - 102 Western Heritage I & II
  • TH101 Religion: Experience and Tradition
  • PH102 Introduction to Philosophy
  • Computer Literacy (must be completed within first three semesters)
  • CO215 Public Speaking

REQUIREMENTS THAT MAY BE COMPLETED ANY TIME PRIOR TO GRADUATION:

  • Literature
  • Social Sciences
  • Fine Arts
  • Science (It is strongly recommended that students not wait until the senior year.)
  • Additional Philosophy
  • 200 level Theology
  • 300 level Theology

Students are reminded that no tutorials will be approved for core courses.


EXEMPTIONS TO THE CORE

Although the Core Curriculum is intended as an educational experience common to all Caldwell College students, there are circumstances that allow for exemptions from the core courses or for the substitution of other acceptable courses.

Credit by Standardized Examination

When students can demonstrate mastery of knowledge through standardized testing, they are exempt from the corresponding core course(s). Students who earn scores of 3 or higher on the Advanced Placement (AP) tests and acceptable scores on the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) administered by the College Board, TECEP tests administered by Thomas Edison State College, or ACT - PEP tests administered by the American College Testing Program in core courses will be awarded these credits by examination. Students are advised to consult the College catalog for more information on credit by standardized examination. Traditional students will also wish to confer with the Assistant Dean for Student Academic Affairs; adult undergraduate students with the Associate Dean of Continuing Education.

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

Credits earned through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) may be applicable to liberal arts core courses. Students are advised to consult the College catalog for more information on PLA credit and the Associate Dean of Continuing Education. A candidate for PLA must be 23 years of age or older.

Transfer Students

This core curriculum will be required of all students transferring into Caldwell College as of September 2002. In individual circumstances some transfer courses may substitute for required core courses. In order to constitute a valid replacement, these courses should include similar content to the required course. The final determination for the acceptance of all core courses will be made by the Registrar and the Director of Advisement for traditional students; by the Registrar and Associate Dean of Continuing Education for adult undergraduate students.

Waiver Process

Traditional students who encounter special problems in meeting core requirements may apply for a waiver from the requirement from the Assistant Dean for Student Academic Affairs. Adult undergraduate students may apply for a waiver from the Associate Dean of Continuing Education.

Exemptions and waivers have no effect on the total number of credit hours required for graduation.


Core Curriculum has been written for freshmen and transfer students beginning their studies at Caldwell College in Fall 2002 and for all academic advisors. The program, effective Fall 2002, was proposed by the Core Curriculum Review Committee and approved by the entire faculty in March 2002.

This page was prepared by the members of the Core Curriculum Review Committee, 2000-2002:

  • James Flynn, Ph.D., Chair
  • Sook Choi, Ph.D.
  • Lisa DiBisceglie, Ed.D.
  • John Kaufman, Ph.D.
  • Harriet Schenk, M.A.
  • Patricia Verrone, Ph.D.
  • Sister Catherine Waters, O.P., Ph.D.