Admissions

Cornerstone Studies

The Cornerstone Studies program provides a strong educational foundation that is designed to help you develop lasting skills in critical thinking such as the abilities to analyze, evaluate and solve problems, as well as provide you with the skills to succeed in your particular field of study.

A minimum of 40 credit hours from eight specific areas in Cornerstone Studies is required. Several courses are offered in each of the Cornerstone perspectives.

1. The Western Tradition

Here you will learn about the classical, Judeo-Christian and modern traditions that originated with people in ancient, medieval and eighteenth century periods, and have evolved into the belief systems and behaviors evident in western society today. Students pursuing the B.A. degree must take at least one course in literature and one course in history. (6 credit hours)

2. The Scientific Perspective

In this area students learn about the natural sciences, scientific methods, analytical reasoning and how scientific discoveries and applications have an impact  on our rapidly changing world. Students will take two courses from those offered in biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, physics, and mathematics. At least one of which must include a laboratory science. (7-8 credit hours)

3. The Social Science Perspective

The study of social, political and economic institutions are the focus of this perspective. You will study behavioral theory and how the social sciences help us understand the regularities and patterns that underlie behavior and social structure. To meet this requirement, students take two courses from those offered by the departments of communication studies, economics, physical education, political science, psychology, and  sociology. No more than one course from each department may be counted in fulfilling this requirement. (6 credit hours)

4. The Humanistic Perspective

The goal here is for students to become more aware, attentive, receptive, competent and committed in the disciplines of literature, philosophy, history and religion. It is our belief that a strong background in the humanities enriches the human spirit and provides a greater understanding of life. To meet this requirement, students must take three courses from those offered in religion, philosophy, literature, and history. At least one course must be from religion or philosophy, and at least one course from literature or history. (9 credit hours)

5. The Fine Arts Perspective

The arts share in the shaping of culture and provide a reflection of thoughts and ideas as well as a chronicle of the periods and civilizations from which they emanate. Students discover the scope of the fine arts—theatre, music, and visual art—and the ideas behind these forms of expression of both the individual and society as a whole. (3 credit hours)

6. The Minority Perspective

Through learning about the experience of African-Americans, Native Americans, Asians, Jews and women, students learn to appreciate their contribution to American society, and gain insight into both minority and majority traditions in society. (3 credit hours)

7. A Global Awareness May Term

Through knowledge of other societies, students become sensitive to the values, attitudes and issues of cultures outside the borders of their own country. All students required to take a Global Awareness may complete the requirement in one of four ways:  (3 credit hours)

  • An approved Simpson faculty-led May Term trip abroad (for a grade) or other academic experience of living abroad while studying another culture.
  • A specially designated on-campus Global Awareness May Term course for a grade.
  • A semester or more of study abroad with one of the Simpson language programs.
  • A semester or more of enrollment in one of the Simpson affiliated programs for overseas study.

8. Senior Colloquium

In the Senior Colloquium, students address a significant topic from more than one Cornerstone perspective. The Colloquium provides a structured opportunity for students to continue the task of integrating their liberal arts education and addressing its contemporary relevance. A major part of the Colloquium experience is a substantial writing project in which students demonstrate an awareness of the value issues at stake in analysis of the topic. Must be completed in your senior year, topics will vary. (3 credit hours)

Last Updated: 8/11/09