General Education Requirements
Course Sequence
PROGRAM SNAPSHOT
Broaden your skills. Identify and explore your passions. Graduate from Winona State University.
Choosing an area of study can seem like a daunting process, especially as a first-year student. The good news is that the General Education Program (GEP) is here to help.
The GEP is a course sequence that consists of 10 Goal Areas and 4 Intensives.
Every undergraduate student needs to complete this course sequence—in addition to their chosen academic program—to successfully graduate from WSU.
GEP courses can count toward your major or minor program. Some classes may even satisfy more than one GEP requirement at the same time (also known as “double dipping”).
Itching to travel but don’t want to delay your graduation date? WSU offers several Study Away options that let you explore the world and fulfill GEP requirements no matter your academic program.
By completing coursework in more than one area, you’ll be well-rounded rather than pigeon-holed with your skillset, making you even more attractive to future employers.
If you don’t quite know what you want to study, the General Education Program (GEP) allows you to dip into a variety of subjects.
If, however, you know exactly what you want to do in life, then the GEP reinforces your confidence in your career path. The GEP may also open your eyes to a new field you hadn’t considered before and help you change your mind.
Either way, the GEP puts you one step closer to finding your true passions.
You can choose from a wide range of classes that satisfy each Goal Area and Intensive to customize your Warrior journey.
Goal Areas
Think of Goal Areas as themes of understanding. These 10 Goal Areas are coordinated with the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC).
Become an effective reader, writer, speaker, and listener.
Solve problems through factual and creative ways.
Understand the importance of science in your life.
Use facts and logic to support claims and make decisions.
Learn about the roles you and others play in society.
Gain an appreciation for ideas and cultures different from your own.
Engage in the creative process or interpretive performance.
Explore differences in race, gender, values, and traditions of various groups in the U.S.
Compare worldwide social, economic, and political experiences.
Become a considerate and responsible citizen.
Know humans’ impact on the natural world to address environmental issues.
Intensives
Think of Intensives as additional requirements that complement what you learn from the Goal Areas.
Hone writing skills specific to your career field.
Convey messages in different formats and to different audiences.
Use evidence and modern practices to craft sound arguments.
Lead a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
