All Colby-Sawyer students explore subjects across the curriculum to broaden their knowledge in areas outside their major. Exploration courses fulfill Pathway Stepping Stone requirements and may also fulfill requirements in the major. Students choose one course from each of the following areas:
Fine and Performing Arts - 3 credits
Study of the arts helps students understand how artists create works in a studio environment or on stage. Select from options in Art, Communication Studies, Dance, Music, Theatre, and Creative Writing.
Humanities - 3 credits
The humanities explore the nature and meaning of human existence. Select from options in English, Humanities, Philosophy, Religion and Women's Studies.
Literature - 3 credits
Literature courses focus on a body of imaginative texts and challenge students to reflect on their own lives through encounters with literary themes. Select from options in English.
Science - 4 credits
The study of science offers students an introduction to the use of the scientific method to formulate and test hypotheses in a broad, interdisciplinary context. Select from laboratory course options in Biology, Environmental Studies, Chemistry, and Physics.
Social Sciences - 3 credits
The study of the social sciences helps students explore the relationship between personal and social worlds and develop responsibility for themselves as well as the broader society in which they live. Select from options in Business Administration, Economics, Education, Psychology and Sociology.
History - 3 credits
History courses help students understand the development of political, economic and social institutions and the evolution of contemporary social issues. Select from options in American Studies, Art History, and History.
In addition, students select one course from two of the following four areas:
Environmental Literacy - 3-4 credits
Environmental literacy courses provide students the opportunity to study and explore ways of responding to one of the greatest challenges confronting humanity – ensuring a sustainable future for the human species and the planet. Select from options in Biology, Business Administration, Environmental Studies, and Philosophy.
Global Perspectives - 3 credits
Global perspectives courses help students understand the culture, values, and histories of other societies and encourage open-mindedness. Select from options in Business Administration, Communication Studies, English, Government, and Psychology.
Media Literacy - 3 credits
Media literacy enhances the ability to understand the ways in which the media shape the world. Its study helps students develop the ability to make the critical and ethical judgments necessary to participate meaningfully in a democratic society. Select from options in Communication Studies, Environmental Studies, and Women's Studies.
Wellness - 3 credits
The Wellness model focuses on the integrated components of well-being: the spiritual, emotional, physical, intellectual and social self. Wellness courses help students identify factors detrimental to well-being, and shape their choices and behaviors to improve well-being. Select from options in Exercise and Sport Sciences, Nursing, Psychology, and Science.
