General Education Program Mission Statement

Wayne State has had a University-wide Program in General Education since 1987 for all undergraduate students pursuing bachelor's degrees regardless of their academic specialties. These requirements contribute to the goal of ensuring that all students have the basic skills fundamental to success in college while simultaneously achieving the intellectual breadth necessary to place specialized and professional curricula in proper perspective. By means of the General Education Program, undergraduate students improve their skills and are introduced to methods of inquiry, modes of thought, bodies of knowledge, and representative ideas drawn from a wide range of academic disciplines.

A key component of Wayne State University's strategic action plan is to establish and sustain a superlative learning experience that builds upon the unique values and attributes of the University. To further this vision, the faculty undertook a comprehensive review of the undergraduate General Education Requirements which resulted in an enhanced General Education Program rooted in the fundamental mission of Wayne State University. The new program was recommended by the Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, approved by the Academic Senate, and adopted by the Board of Governors in March of 2005. Outlined at the General Education Home Page are University-wide general education programs applicable to students who entered in Fall 2005 and thereafter; for subsequent updates to these requirements, students should consult the University Advising Center or advising staff in their School or College. General Education Requirements for students who entered between Fall 1987 and Spring/Summer term of 2005, and University Requirements prior to Fall Term 1987 may be found in the current Wayne State University Undergraduate Bulletin.  The University-wide Program in General Education seeks to enhance facility in those basic skills which are fundamental to success in college while simultaneously providing the intellectual breadth necessary to place specialized and professional curricula in proper perspective.