2023-2024 BSC Catalog Updated_UG ONLY_FINAL[82]

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
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These similarities and differences in content and methods, we believe, provide generative
ground for purposeful exploration and renewed insight. Learning in a liberal arts context
is a creative endeavor, one that is best understood as an exploration, whether that
exploration addresses ongoing problems considered for many millennia or identifies new,
emerging problems unique to citizens of the twenty-first century.
Because we assume these five values require familiarity with the knowledge accumulated
in and the methodologies employed by multiple disciplines, students in the Explorations
curriculum are expected to explore a wide range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary
approaches. Likewise, we invite students to seek out connections between the coursework
required for general education, the coursework required for a disciplinary or
interdisciplinary major, and the wider community.
In order to assist students in their purposeful exploration, we have designed a curriculum
around each of the five values mentioned above. Curriculum requirements are met by
successful completion of specifically-designated courses germane to each of the values.
There is no one way to satisfy Explorations curriculum requirements. Students should use
the following framework to craft their own unique exploration.
(1) Effective Communication. Students should be able to communicate effectively in
written, oral, and artistic forms to a variety of audiences. Students develop these skills in
three courses:
one first-year seminar in writing and critical thinking (EH 102 or EH 208)
one writing reinforcement course within the major (WR)
one course in creative expression (CE)
EH 102 or EH 208 – First-Year Seminar in Writing and Critical Thinking.
Students will be able to
• demonstrate sound logic, awareness of complex issues, and connections
• produce a clear thesis, unified and coherent paragraphs, appropriate transitions
between paragraphs, and an organized structure
• produce paragraphs with clear topic sentences, well-chosen examples, and
supporting details
• use appropriate quotations, well-integrated into sentences, and properly cited in
MLA style
• revise, edit, and proofread for varied sentence structure, careful diction, standard
grammar and punctuation, and authorial voice and audience
WR – Writing Reinforcement. Students will be able to
• address specific purposes, contexts, and audiences
• develop ideas to meet the demands of the rhetorical situation
• utilize appropriate genre and disciplinary conventions (i.e., organization,
content, presentation, style)
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2023-2024