Newcomb-Tulane College: Core Curriculum and Courses of Study
Academic Year 2008-2009
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Core Curriculum and Courses of Study
CORE CURRICULUM
Designed to provide a common academic experience for undergraduates across all
schools of the university, the core curriculum ensures the attainment of basic
competencies in writing, foreign language, scientific inquiry, cultural knowledge,
and interdisciplinary scholarship. Schools may add other degree requirements,
and students are urged to consider these additional requirements when planning
their schedules prior to entering a school. Distinguishing features of this core
curriculum are: 1) the prominent role of public service, reflecting the value
Tulane places upon developing a life-long commitment to public service and
citizenship; 2) the required TIDES course, Tulane's signature interdisciplinary
first-year seminar series; and 3) a capstone experience through which students
apply the knowledge gained in their major fields of study. The core curriculum:
· is committed to breadth, requiring coursework in all areas of knowledge
· offers all students an integrative, themed first-year seminar experience
(TIDES)
· is committed to developing ethical leadership skills and a commitment to
public service
· assures the achievement of competencies in the following areas:
Writing (4 credits) Effective writing is central to learning and communication.
The first-year writing experience helps students to develop the intellectual,
organizational, and expository skills appropriate to university study. Writing
competence can be demonstrated by:
· An Advanced Placement score of 4 or 5 in English language or English
literature, or by a score of 5 or better on the higher-level International
Baccalaureate English exam, or
· Successful completion of either English 101 or a 119 course in any liberal
arts or science department.
NOTE: This writing requirement must be completed successfully in the
first year of study at Tulane University. A student may receive credit for
only one 119-course. Furthermore, ENGL 101 and any 119-numbered
course are considered to be duplicate credit.
Foreign Language (4-8 credits)* The study of foreign languages is an integral
part of an undergraduate education, and a knowledge of foreign languages is
essential for having a broader perspective of our increasingly globalized world.
All students must demonstrate competency in a foreign and must complete at least
one course at Tulane University in that language. Competency in a foreign
language may be achieved by:
· An Advanced Placement score of 4 or 5,