Jun 23, 2025  
2025-2026 Academic Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Academic Catalog

General Education Curriculum


Mission

The General Education curriculum at McNeese State University provides students with a broad foundation of knowledge and skills essential for academic success, personal growth, and civic responsibility. Through diverse disciplines, students develop critical thinking, effective communication, and analytical reasoning abilities that prepare them to adapt to an evolving world.

Institutional Mission Reference

The General Education curriculum supports McNeese State University’s mission by fostering a dynamic teaching and learning environment committed to excellence with a personal touch. Rooted in the University’s core values, the curriculum equips students with essential skills and knowledge that enhance student success and prepare graduates to excel in their careers and communities.

Student Learning Outcomes


Upon completion of the General Education curriculum, students will be able to:

  1. Write effectively to communicate ideas clearly and appropriately for different purposes and audiences. (Area A: English Composition)
  2. Use mathematical and analytical reasoning to solve problems and draw conclusions. (Area B: Mathematics/Analytical Reasoning)
  3. Apply scientific principles to explain natural phenomena. (Area C: Natural Sciences)
  4. Examine the human experience through cultural, historical, and philosophical perspectives. (Area D: Humanities)
  5. Interpret and analyze artistic works as expressions of the human experience. (Area E: Fine Arts)
  6. Explain human behavior and social structures using concepts from the social and behavioral sciences. (Area F: Social/Behavioral Sciences)

General Education Curriculum Guide


Area A: English Composition (6 credit hours)


To fulfill this requirement, students must complete both courses.

Area B: Mathematics/Analytical Reasoning (6 credit hours)


To fulfill this requirement, students must complete two courses as specified by individual degree programs.

Area C: Natural Sciences (9 credit hours)


To fulfill this requirement, students must complete three courses (9 credit hours) as specified by individual degree programs. Six credit hours shall be earned in a single life or physical science; the remaining 3 credit hours must be earned in a natural science area other than that previously selected (both life and physical sciences must be taken to fulfill this requirement).

Area D: Humanities (9 credit hours)


To fulfill this requirement, students must complete three courses as specified by individual degree programs. All students must complete one English literature course, one history course, and one broad humanities or additional history course.

Notes


General Education curriculum requirements for associate degree programs include:

  • English Composition (6 credit hours)
  • Mathematics/Analytical Reasoning (3 credit hours)
  • Natural Sciences (6 credit hours)
  • Humanities (3 credit hours)
  • Fine Arts (3 credit hours)
  • Social/Behavioral Sciences (6 credit hours)