Definition
General education is the part of a student’s education that produces well-rounded graduates who are not only trained in the specific skills of their profession but also equipped to adapt to a changing world, solve complex problems, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. In this way, general education complements a student’s specialized knowledge and plays a central role in preparing them to be thoughtful, responsible, and engaged citizens and professionals.
Inclusion in Degrees and Diplomas
General education is an essential part of all degrees and diplomas at Southeastern Community College. Each degree or diploma meets general education outcomes (competencies) at a level appropriate for that degree or diploma, either at the college level, degree level, or transfer level.
All transfer degrees contain a minimum of 45 semester hours of courses designated as general education, including at least 6 hours in communications, 6 hours in humanities/fine arts, 6 hours in social/behavioral sciences, 3 hours in mathematics, and 4 hours in natural sciences. This is in accord with the standards set by the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement between the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) and the University of North Carolina System, as well as between the NCCCS and the North Carolina Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in the Independent Comprehensive Articulation Agreement. All general education outcomes are met through taking appropriate courses to complete the transfer degree.
All other degrees – associate in applied science and associate in general education - contain a minimum of 15 semester hours of general education courses and meet the general education outcomes at a level appropriate for associate degree recipients.
All diplomas must contain a minimum of 6 semester hours of general education courses. These programs meet the general education outcomes at a level appropriate for diploma recipients.
General Education Outcomes
Southeastern Community College has identified general education outcomes that are at the core of its mission. SCC assesses the achievement of these outcomes and seeks to continually improve student attainment in each area.
In support of the college mission, SCC students will be able to:
- Demonstrate quantitative literacy by interpreting and analyzing numerical data.
- Produce effective written communications that effectively convey ideas, arguments, and information to diverse audiences.
- Demonstrate scientific competency by applying scientific principles and methods to investigate and analyze real-world issues.
- Apply the principles of ethical reasoning to appropriately address an academic or professional problem.