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General Education Courses

Division of Arts and Sciences

Essential Undergraduate Learning Outcomes

 

Intercultural Competence:  Learners will demonstrate the ability to engage effectively in a local and global society and apply civic knowledge to real-world situations.

Ethics: Learners will demonstrate ethical reasoning by making sound decisions, taking appropriate actions with awareness of the rights and well-being of others, and identifying the impact of personal and professional behavior.

Personal and Social Responsibility: Learners will make personal and professional decisions with respect for human diversity, equality, and inclusion, and develop self and social awareness by understanding personal strengths and limitations.    

Relationship Building: Learners will demonstrate the teamwork skills necessary to effectively work with others, establish new networks, and cultivate existing  networks.

Problem Solving: Learners will identity and frame problems, explore big questions and ideas, and create effective, ethical, and evidence-based solutions.

Critical Thinking: Learners will develop the thinking skills necessary to think independently, initiate action, integrate differing points of view, and develop a process of reasoning.

Innovative Thinking: Learners will develop the creative thinking skills necessary to create innovative solutions and the agility to embrace and adapt to change.

Quantitative Reasoning: Learners will apply basic mathematical skills to interpret quantitative information in a results-driven context. 

Scientific and Evidence-Based Inquiry: Learners will use research and empirical evidence to further develop questions, propose explanations to problems or scenarios, and to use a scientific lens to describe the world around them.

Information Literacy: Learners will apply inquiry and analysis skills to the ability to locate, analyze, and use knowledge and resources appropriately. Learners will act ethically by providing credit to original authors and sources.

Communication:  Learners will develop the skills necessary to articulate ideas effectively in a variety of written, oral, and visual formats using an appropriate tone and purpose for the intended audience.

Integrative Learning: Learners will use multi-disciplinary and multi-contextual lenses to address complex ideas and questions, synthesize transferable skills and concepts across disciplines, and apply transferable knowledge to professional disciplines.

 

Capella University’s general education curriculum works in concert with the coursework in a learner’s field of study to develop reflective-practitioners at the bachelor’s level. Reflective-practitioners learn to use analytical and relational skills to improve their professional practices through action, reflection, and adaptation.

At Capella University, the general education curriculum is structured around the development of knowledge and skills within four major distribution areas:

1. Communication: Capella learners develop the communication skills necessary to effectively use the English language to communicate both verbally and in written form. They develop the thinking skills necessary to critically evaluate information, integrate differing points of view, and establish a reasoned course of action for effectively solving problems. These critical thinking skills are reinforced throughout the program and through reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

2. Humanities: Capella learners develop an understanding of the arts and humanities as an expression of human culture, and through the critical analysis of works of art, literature, and philosophy, they develop the ability to form their own aesthetic judgments. Through reflection on their own values and positions, as well as those of others, they learn what it means to be a socially responsible citizen in today’s world and develop the ability to appropriately exercise that citizenship.

3. Natural Science and Mathematics: Capella learners develop an understanding of the scientific methods used to study the natural sciences phenomena and an appreciation of the role scientific inquiry plays in addressing the critical issues facing today’s world. They develop an understanding of mathematical and logical reasoning and the ability to use mathematics and logic to address problems in their personal and professional lives.

4. Social Science: Capella learners develop an understanding of the scientific methods used to study human behavior and interaction and acquire knowledge of the predominant social science theories.

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General Education Courses

Choose 45 quarter credits with a minimum of 4 quarter credits from each category.  

Communication 

COM-H4005 *
Communicating and Integrating Solutions in the Professional World

In this course, learners apply communication skills, information literacy, and first-hand research to complete a final professional presentation and share their findings with their instructor and peers.  For honors pathway learners only. Prerequisite(s): SOC-H3005. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.

6 quarter credits
COM1150
Introduction to Digital and Information Literacy

In this course, learners build their knowledge of digital and information literacy and technological tools to stay organized, be well-informed, maximize their time, and stand out personally and professionally in the workplace. Learners use computers, software, and online tools to effectively complete a task, apply digital tools and organization techniques to effectively create timelines and set priorities, and investigate organizational strategies to maximize productivity, while leveraging information literacy strategies to ensure accuracy and evidence-based support for their work.

6 quarter credits
COM1250
Workplace Communication

In this course, learners develop key workplace communication skills, including writing, listening, and speaking with credibility. Learners acquire effective communication skills by participating in different communication scenarios and applying active listening. In addition, learners practice time-management solutions by exploring different technologies.

6 quarter credits
COM2000
Intercultural Communication

Learners in this course demonstrate and apply knowledge of cultural differences associated with values, norms, social interaction, and code systems. Learners also analyze the effects those differences have on inter- and cross-cultural communication.

6 quarter credits
COM3700
Conflict Resolution

In this course, learners identify and analyze the factors that promote conflict and apply the fundamental skills and tools used to resolve conflict in personal and professional situations.

6 quarter credits
COM4100
Media and Culture

In this course, learners analyze communication processes and the influence of mass media and social media on society. Learners assess key economic, political, ethical, and social issues in intrapersonal, interpersonal and mass communication; and develop skills needed to critically consume and produce media.

6 quarter credits
ENG1000
English Composition

This course is an introduction to writing research techniques and various forms of writing, including expository writing. Learners strengthen and demonstrate their ability to think critically; to develop and organize writing topics; and to revise their writing for clarity of purpose, readability, and style.

6 quarter credits
ENG1001
Essential Writing Skills

Learners gain an understanding of the essential academic skills of writing and reading. Learners familiarize themselves with grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and word choice, and develop reading comprehension skills. In addition, learners gain an introduction to the writing process and apply it to academic writing.

6 quarter credits
ENG1250
Introduction to Technical and Business Writing

In this course, learners discover how to harness the power of words in a professional environment. Learners focus on the fundamentals of business and technical writing to understand how to write for a variety of purposes. Learners also gain the skills necessary to craft a clear and targeted message for any audience.

6 quarter credits
ENG2250
Academic Research and Writing

In this course, learners assess how to use writing to understand, influence, and connect with an audience. Learners identify how to use primary and secondary research to support their informed arguments, as well as how to document their research. Learners develop the skills necessary to research and analyze the writing of others to evaluate credibility.

6 quarter credits

Humanities 

HUM1150
Cultural Understanding in a Global World

In this course, learners develop critical thinking and innovation skills by examining how the humanities relates to diverse cultures in a globally collected world. Learners explore various cultures from around the world and identify how to maximize diverse perspectives to improve personal and professional interactions.

6 quarter credits
HUM1200
Philosophy of Work

This course emphasizes the nature, history, and ethics of work. Learners investigate different conceptions of the meaning of work by analyzing various kinds of labor; the ways work has changed over the course of history; and the ways work relates to meaning, significance, and dignity in human life. Learners examine the views and practices of work in different cultures. Learners also develop a philosophy of work.

6 quarter credits
PHI-H2005
Honors Seminar: Critical Thinking for the Professional World

This is the first course in the honors pathway. Learners apply critical thinking skills to develop a professionally relevant question in their discipline or program of study to investigate throughout the honors pathway. Learners gain the knowledge and skills necessary to ask questions and solve problems from multiple perspectives. Learners analyze their question from multiple perspectives and engage in enriching discussions with faculty and peers.  For honors pathway learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.

3 quarter credits
PHI1200
Philosophy of Problem Solving

In this course, learners develop and refine their professional presence by honing a set of essential skills to excel in school, work, and life. Learners apply problem solving skills and behaviors to scenarios in their current or anticipated discipline.

6 quarter credits
PHI2000
Ethics

In this course, learners apply major ethical theories to evaluate actions and apply them to contemporary issues. Learners reflect on their own value systems and the ways these values influence and inform their judgments and behavior.

6 quarter credits
PHI3200
Ethics in Health Care

Learners in this course gain a better understanding of the ethical issues associated with the health care profession and the conceptual framework health care professionals use to make ethical decisions. Learners examine current and emerging ethical health care issues related to the various stages of the lifecycle and the quality of life. Learners also explore ethical issues associated with patient care from the perspectives of various health care professionals, including physicians, nurses, and administrators through the use of authentic, real-world examples.

6 quarter credits

Natural Science and Mathematics 

BIO1000
Human Biology

In this course, learners examine the integrative relationship between human biological systems and the social sciences, arts, and communications. Learners build and apply an understanding of topics such as human anatomy, nature versus nurture, biological psychology, human disease, and concepts related to ancestry and biology. Learners also evaluate the accuracy of biological topics in the media. This course includes a lab experience.

6 quarter credits
MAT1050
College Algebra

Learners in this course evaluate and perform linear, exponential, logarithmic, and other mathematical functions that include algebraic, graphic, and numeric properties. Learners then apply these concepts to the social and natural sciences, business, and everyday life.

6 quarter credits
MAT1150
Essential Math for Everyday Life

In this course, learners gain an understanding of numbers and how to use and interpret them. Learners examine mathematics using an easily understandable approach for basic math and algebra to connect mathematical concepts and everyday life.

6 quarter credits
MAT2001
Statistical Reasoning

This course introduces fundamental concepts of elementary statistics, including descriptive statistics, methods of counting, probability distributions, approximations, estimation, and hypothesis testing. Learners use these concepts to apply and interpret statistical results.

6 quarter credits
MAT2051 *
Discrete Mathematics

Learners build an understanding of mathematical analysis techniques. Learners apply number logic and set theory, functions and sequences, relations equivalence, partial order, digraphs, recurrence relations, counting techniques, logic and techniques of proof, graphs, and algorithms to the fields of business and information technology. Prerequisite(s): MAT1050.

6 quarter credits
MAT2100
Data-Driven Decisions

In this course, learners examine the applications of statistics to a variety of fields. Learners develop mathematical reasoning, quantitative analysis, and quantitative communication skills to prepare them for future academic coursework and professional life. Learners also gain an understanding of how every day decisions are supported by mathematics.

4 quarter credits
NSC1150
Science and Innovation

In this course, learners analyze concepts from the physical and biological sciences to identify the connections between science and innovation. Learners investigate how science and innovation influence society as they develop critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and research skills.

6 quarter credits
PHY1000
Introduction to Astronomy

Learners in this course explore the major concepts associated with understanding the universe and why objects in the universe behave the way they do. In particular, learners examine the history of astronomy and science; the concepts of modern astronomy and cosmology; the earth and the solar system; the sun, stars, and stellar evolution; galaxies and similar objects; and the Big Bang Theory and the origin of the universe. Learners also consider life on earth and the probability of life elsewhere in the universe.

6 quarter credits

Social Science 

BHA4002
History of the United States Health Care System

Learners gain a historical view of the U.S. health care system and analyze the challenges and successes of an ever-changing and evolving industry from both a private and public health perspective. Learners also investigate health care innovations, regulatory bodies and technology to assess the evolutionary processes in medical education, changing practice, hospital industry growth and the continuum of care.

3 quarter credits
ECO1150
Personal Economics: Introduction to Financial Planning

In this course, learners investigate key concepts of economics and personal finance. Learners gain the knowledge and skills necessary to leverage analysis tools, as well as economic reasoning and planning skills. 

6 quarter credits
HIS1150
U.S. History: How the Past Informs the Present

In this course, learners investigate key events in U.S. history and make connections to their influence and impact on society today. Learners analyze how knowledge of the past helps to understand the world today and make more informed decisions about the future. In addition, learners critically analyze information and decide what is credible and accurate to draw their own conclusions.

6 quarter credits
POL1110
U.S. and Nevada Government

In this course, learners investigate the origins and evolution of American national government and Nevada state government, including the basic institutions, ideals, and fundamental decision-making processes regarding domestic and foreign policy. Learners analyze fundamental terms and facts, the development and functions of the U.S. branches of government, and the value preferences within American society that affect public policy. Learners also gain a basic understanding of how federal, state, and local governments interact in the U.S. political system.

6 quarter credits
PSYC1000
Introduction to Psychology

This course is an introduction to the basic theories and principles of psychology and of the scientific methods of psychologists. Learners build understanding of core psychological theories and research and their application in areas of the brain, learning, memory, personality, social influence, lifespan development, psychopathology, and applied psychology. Learners apply the psychological concepts they learn to everyday situations through discussions and assignments.

6 quarter credits
SOC-H3005 *
Honors Professional Seminar

Learners in this course take a sociological approach to professional growth in the workplace. This course provides learners with the opportunity to complete a professional project that addresses an organizational need or solves a problem. Learners explore questions and develop their project with faculty and peers through engaging discussions and assignments. Throughout the course, learners use a sociological perspective to further develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address interdisciplinary issues.  For honors pathway learners only.  Prerequisite(s): PHI-H2005. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.​

6 quarter credits
SOC1150
How Society Works: Diversity, Collaboration, and Problem Solving

In this course, learners collaborate with colleagues to investigate diverse communities and interpret sociological research to develop a comprehensive understanding of society. Learners use the scientific method to improve their problem solving skills and make effective and informed decisions.

6 quarter credits
SOC2000
Cultural Diversity

Learners in this course gain and demonstrate an understanding of cultural diversity from a sociological perspective and identify the ways the societal structure affects micro-level experience. Learners evaluate theories that explain the cultural foundations of prejudice and discrimination, analyze the differences between majority and minority groups and racial and ethnic groups, and investigate the role of power in creating and supporting these differences at the structural level. Learners also assess the relationship between race, gender, and economics by examining past and current experiences of American minority groups.

6 quarter credits
SOC2400
Health and Illness in Social Context

In this course learners apply a sociological perspective to gain an understanding of health, illness, health care delivery, and health care policy. Learners analyze the social determinants of health; the meaning and experience of illness; and key issues surrounding bioethics, health care technologies, and environmental and public health. Learners also compare cross-cultural approaches to health, illness, and health care systems.

6 quarter credits

 

In addition, choose 29 quarter credits of additional undergraduate courses from general education courses above.

 

General Education Courses, FlexPath option

Choose 22.5 program points with a minimum of 2 program points from each category.

Communication

COM-FP3700
Conflict Resolution

In this course, learners identify and analyze the factors that promote conflict and apply the fundamental skills and tools used to resolve conflict in personal and professional situations.

3 program points
COM-FPX1150
Introduction to Digital and Information Literacy

In this course, learners build their knowledge of digital and information literacy and technological tools to stay organized, be well-informed, maximize their time, and stand out personally and professionally in the workplace. Learners use computers, software, and online tools to effectively complete a task, apply digital tools and organization techniques to effectively create timelines and set priorities, and investigate organizational strategies to maximize productivity, while leveraging information literacy strategies to ensure accuracy and evidence-based support for their work.

3 program points
COM-FPX1250
Workplace Communication

In this course, learners develop key workplace communication skills, including writing, listening, and speaking with credibility. Learners acquire effective communication skills by participating in different communication scenarios and applying active listening. In addition, learners practice time-management solutions by exploring different technologies.​

3 program points
COM-FPX3700
Conflict Resolution

In this course, learners identify and analyze the factors that promote conflict and apply the fundamental skills and tools used to resolve conflict in personal and professional situations. 

3 program points
ENG-FP1000
English Composition

This course is an introduction to writing research techniques and various forms of writing, including expository writing. Learners strengthen and demonstrate their ability to think critically; to develop and organize writing topics; and to revise their writing for clarity of purpose, readability, and style.

3 program points
ENG-FPX1000
English Composition

This course is an introduction to writing research techniques and various forms of writing, including expository writing. Learners strengthen and demonstrate their ability to think critically; to develop and organize writing topics; and to revise their writing for clarity of purpose, readability, and style.

3 program points
ENG-FPX1250
Introduction to Technical and Business Writing

In this course, learners discover how to harness the power of words in a professional environment. Learners focus on the fundamentals of business and technical writing to understand how to write for a variety of purposes. Learners also gain the skills necessary to craft a clear and targeted message for any audience.

3 program points
ENG-FPX2250
Academic Research and Writing

In this course, learners assess how to use writing to understand, influence, and connect with an audience. Learners identify how to use primary and secondary research to support their informed arguments, as well as how to document their research. Learners develop the skills necessary to research and analyze the writing of others to evaluate credibility.

3 program points

Humanities 

HUM-FPX1150
Cultural Understanding in a Global World

In this course, learners develop critical thinking and innovation skills by examining how the humanities relates to diverse cultures in a globally collected world. Learners explore various cultures from around the world and identify how to maximize diverse perspectives to improve personal and professional interactions.

3 program points
PHI-FP2000
Ethics

Learners analyze major philosophical approaches to evaluating moral actions and apply them to contemporary issues. Learners assess their own moral beliefs and the ways these beliefs influence and inform their moral judgments and behavior.

3 program points
PHI-FP3200
Ethics in Health Care

Learners in this course gain an understanding of the ethical issues associated with the health care profession and the conceptual framework health care professionals use to make ethical decisions. Learners examine current and emerging ethical health care issues related to the various stages of the life cycle and the quality of life. Learners also use authentic, real-world examples to analyze ethical issues associated with patient care from the perspectives of various health care professionals, including physicians, nurses, and administrators.

3 program points
PHI-FPX1200
Philosophy of Problem Solving

In this course, learners develop and refine their professional presence by honing a set of essential skills to excel in school, work, and life. Learners apply problem solving skills and behaviors to scenarios in their current or anticipated discipline.

3 program points
PHI-FPX2000
Ethics

In this course, learners apply major ethical theories to evaluate actions and apply them to contemporary issues. Learners reflect on their own value systems and the ways these values influence and inform their judgments and behavior.

3 program points
PHI-FPX3200
Ethics in Health Care

Learners in this course gain a better understanding of the ethical issues associated with the health care profession and the conceptual framework health care professionals use to make ethical decisions. Learners examine current and emerging ethical health care issues related to the various stages of the lifecycle and the quality of life. Learners also explore ethical issues associated with patient care from the perspectives of various health care professionals, including physicians, nurses, and administrators through the use of authentic, real-world examples.

3 program points

Natural Science and Mathematics 

BIO-FP1000
Human Biology

In this course, learners examine the integrative relationship between human biological systems and the social sciences, arts, and communications. Learners build and apply an understanding of topics such as human anatomy, nature versus nurture, biological psychology, human disease, and concepts related to ancestry and biology. Learners also evaluate the accuracy of biological topics in the media. This course includes a lab experience.

3 program points
BIO-FPX1000
Human Biology

In this course, learners examine the integrative relationship between human biological systems and the social sciences, arts, and communications. Learners build and apply an understanding of topics such as human anatomy, nature versus nurture, biological psychology, human disease, and concepts related to ancestry and biology. Learners also evaluate the accuracy of biological topics in the media. This course includes a lab experience.

3 program points
MAT-FP1050
College Algebra

Learners in this course evaluate and perform linear, exponential, logarithmic, and other mathematical functions that include algebraic, graphic, and numeric properties. Learners then apply these concepts to the social and natural sciences, business, and everyday life.

3 program points
MAT-FP2001
Statistical Reasoning

This course introduces fundamental concepts of elementary statistics, including descriptive statistics, methods of counting, probability distributions, approximations, estimation, and hypothesis testing. Learners use these concepts to apply and interpret statistical results.

3 program points
MAT-FP2051 *
Discrete Mathematics

This course presents an overview of mathematical analysis techniques. Learners apply number logic and set theory, functions and sequences, relations equivalence, partial order, digraphs, recurrence relations, counting techniques, logic and techniques of proof, graphs, and algorithms to the fields of business and information technology. Prerequisite(s): MAT-FP1050.

3 program points
MAT-FPX1050
College Algebra

Learners in this course evaluate and perform linear, exponential, logarithmic, and other mathematical functions that include algebraic, graphic, and numeric properties. Learners then apply these concepts to the social and natural sciences, business, and everyday life.

3 program points
MAT-FPX1150
Essential Math for Everyday Life

In this course, learners gain an understanding of numbers and how to use and interpret them. Learners examine mathematics using an easily understandable approach for basic math and algebra to connect mathematical concepts and everyday life.

3 program points
MAT-FPX2001
Statistical Reasoning

This course introduces fundamental concepts of elementary statistics, including descriptive statistics, methods of counting, probability distributions, approximations, estimation, and hypothesis testing. Learners use these concepts to apply and interpret statistical results.

3 program points
MAT-FPX2051
Discrete Mathematics

Learners build an understanding of mathematical analysis techniques. Learners apply number logic and set theory, functions and sequences, relations equivalence, partial order, digraphs, recurrence relations, counting techniques, logic and techniques of proof, graphs, and algorithms to the fields of business and information technology.  Prerequisite(s): MAT-FPX1050.​

3 program points
MAT-FPX2100
Data-Driven Decisions

In this course, learners examine the applications of statistics to a variety of fields. Learners develop mathematical reasoning, quantitative analysis, and quantitative communication skills to prepare them for future academic coursework and professional life. Learners also gain an understanding of how every day decisions are supported by mathematics.

2 program points
NSC-FPX1150
Science and Innovation

In this course, learners analyze concepts from the physical and biological sciences to identify the connections between science and innovation. Learners investigate how science and innovation influence society as they develop critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and research skills.

3 program points

Social Science 

BHA-FPX4002
History of the United States Health Care System

Learners gain a historical view of the U.S. health care system and analyze the challenges and successes of an ever-changing and evolving industry from both a private and public health perspective. Learners also investigate health care innovations, regulatory bodies and technology to assess the evolutionary processes in medical education, changing practice, hospital industry growth and the continuum of care.

1.5 program points
ECO-FPX1150
Personal Economics: Introduction to Financial Planning

In this course, learners investigate key concepts of economics and personal finance. Learners gain the knowledge and skills necessary to leverage analysis tools, as well as economic reasoning and planning skills.

3 program points
HIS-FPX1150
U.S. History: How the Past Informs the Present

In this course, learners investigate key events in U.S. history and make connections to their influence and impact on society today. Learners analyze how knowledge of the past helps to understand the world today and make more informed decisions about the future. In addition, learners critically analyze information and decide what is credible and accurate to draw their own conclusions.

3 program points
POL-FPX1110
U.S. and Nevada Government

In this course, learners investigate the origins and evolution of American national government and Nevada state government, including the basic institutions, ideals, and fundamental decision-making processes regarding domestic and foreign policy. Learners analyze fundamental terms and facts, the development and functions of the U.S. branches of government, and the value preferences within American society that affect public policy. Learners also gain a basic understanding of how federal, state, and local governments interact in the U.S. political system.

3 program points
PSYC-FPX1000
Introduction to Psychology

This course is an introduction to the basic theories and principles of psychology and of the scientific methods of psychologists. Learners build understanding of core psychological theories and research and their application in areas of the brain, learning, memory, personality, social influence, lifespan development, psychopathology, and applied psychology. Learners apply the psychological concepts they learn to everyday situations through discussions and assignments.

3 program points
SOC-FP2000
Cultural Diversity

Learners in this course gain and demonstrate an understanding of cultural diversity from a sociological perspective and identify the ways the societal structure affects micro-level experience. Learners evaluate theories that explain the cultural foundations of prejudice and discrimination, analyze the differences between majority and minority groups and racial and ethnic groups, and investigate the role of power in creating and supporting these differences at the structural level. Learners also assess the relationship between race, gender, and economics by examining past and current experiences of American minority groups.

3 program points
SOC-FPX1150
How Society Works: Diversity, Collaboration, and Problem Solving

In this course, learners collaborate with colleagues to investigate diverse communities and interpret sociological research to develop a comprehensive understanding of society. Learners use the scientific method to improve their problem solving skills and make effective and informed decisions.

3 program points
SOC-FPX2000
Cultural Diversity

Learners in this course gain and demonstrate an understanding of cultural diversity from a sociological perspective and identify the ways the societal structure affects micro-level experience. Learners evaluate theories that explain the cultural foundations of prejudice and discrimination, analyze the differences between majority and minority groups and racial and ethnic groups, and investigate the role of power in creating and supporting these differences at the structural level. Learners also assess the relationship between race, gender, and economics by examining past and current experiences of American minority groups.

3 program points

In addition, choose 14.5 program points of undergraduate courses from general education courses above.

 

 * Denotes courses that have prerequisite(s). Refer to the descriptions for further details.

† Some Capella degree programs and specializations require specific courses as part of their curriculum. Learners should refer to their program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.