What Will I Take My First Semester?

The core curriculum explores the liberal arts and sciences from a Christian perspective. Two foundational core courses are taken in your first year, as well as a number of common core courses. The whole core is meant to be taken over your four years so that you can engage in these fundamental questions while you go deeper into a particular area of study. Learn more about the core requirement → 

In the first year, all students take two foundational core:

• The Great Conversation (COR107 or 110): In our first-year seminar and college writing course, you'll be able to sharpen your writing and communication skills while exploring vocation and the value of the liberal arts from a Christian perspective.
• La Vida or Discovery: Our outdoor education experience promotes leadership, confidence, and growth in the community. This can be taken in the summer or during the semester.

Students will also be enrolled in a course or courses in their major or field of exploration.  Some majors focus more on core courses in the first year, while others require specific major courses each semester. The Registrar's office and your summer advisor will help you build a plan that works for your major.

Finally, students will be able to take some core courses over the first two semesters, such as:

• HIS 121   - Historical Perspectives
• BCM 101 - Old Testament History, Literature and Theology
• BCM 103 - New Testament History, Literature and Theology
• Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Fine Arts or Literature
• Language study

Sample first-semester schedule: deciding major

Sample first-semester schedule: communication arts major