II. Disciplinary courses
Fine Arts (4 credits)
Fine Arts Experience (8 events)
Humanities (2 courses)
Mathematics (1 course)
Natural Sciences (1 course)
Social Sciences (1 course)
Theology (2 courses)
Courses which meet disciplinary requirements are designated in the class schedule. A student's academic major fulfills some of these requirements. Students are advised to consult with their faculty advisor about Common Curriculum requirements fulfilled in their particular major. Descriptions of each disciplinary requirement are included below.
Fine Arts (FA)
Art, music, dance and theater enrich our lives by exploring what it means to be human. In its own way, each of these arts nourishes our intellect, stirs our emotions, and touches our spirits. The creative impulse is a vital force within each of us, and its manifestation in the arts can both shape and reflect our lives in the modern world. Learning to understand the fine arts is a gradual process that becomes increasingly meaningful as one gains knowledge and experience.
Fine Arts Experience (FAE)
The Fine Arts Experience creates greater understanding and appreciation of how the visual and performing arts reflect our humanity. Students can choose from a wide variety of artistic expression on the CSB/SJU campuses to meet the requirement of eight (two visual and six performing arts) approved Fine Arts Events. Students are expected to complete the requirement during their first year.
Humanities (HM)
The Humanities disciplines constitute a way of thinking, talking and writing about what it means to be human. Study in the Humanities disciplines introduces us to people we have never met, places we have never visited, times in which we have not lived, perspectives we have never taken, and ideas that may never have crossed our minds. Through careful and rigorous engagement with texts produced by (and about) those other people, places, and ideas, we explore issues of identity, community, and culture, as well as values, purpose, and meaning. With perspectives thus enlarged and enriched, and with skills to explore these questions further, the Humanities invite and equip us to live an examined life.
This requirement must be met with HM courses from two different Humanities disciplines.
Mathematics (MT)
The Mathematics requirement gives students experience with the power and limitations of mathematical reasoning as an approach to solving problems in other disciplines and in everyday life. These courses enable students to understand and use mathematical language and notation, while also seeing the aesthetics and value of the discipline. Emphasis is on involvement, understanding, and appreciation rather than computational rigor.
Natural Sciences (NS)
Natural Science courses in the Common Curriculum introduce students to a systematic, empirical study of our universe. By practicing the scientific process, reading scientific literature, and doing laboratory investigation, students will improve their analytic skill, practice precise communication, and see the application of science to everyday life.
Social Sciences (SS)
The social sciences apply scientific methods to the study of human beings, their attitudes and behaviors, the social forces that shape their lives and the social institutions they create. A Social Science course in the Common Curriculum helps students learn how to examine their world, practice careful analytic thinking, and develop deeper insights into their own experience.
Students majoring in one of the social science disciplines are required to take a social science course from a discipline other than their chosen major.
Theology (TH & TU)
Taken together, the two Theology courses make a significant contribution to a graduate's understanding of the core values of our Benedictine Catholic mission. More specifically, the first course (THEO 111) provides a basic knowledge of the Christian tradition. The second course builds on this preparation as students develop a deeper understanding of a specific religious topic and apply those insights to contemporary issues.