Core Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree

A study of wellness using the CREATION Health model.  The course takes a whole-person approach to living healthy.  It will cover information related to healthy choices, rest, healthy environment, physical activity, trust, interpersonal relationships, outlook, and nutrition.  All students are required to take this course as a part of Southwestern's Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP).

Courses in English composition will emphasize the practice of critical reading and effective writing.

Two courses required: 6 credit hours

Courses in mathematics will emphasize quantitative and deductive reasoning, problem solving and logical thinking, organizational and systematic thinking, and the application of mathematics to various life situations.

Select one course: 3 credit hours

Courses in fitness activity will emphasize practical knowledge and practices that will promote life-long whole-person wellness.

Select two courses: 2 credit hours

Courses in the humanities will emphasize a reflection on the human experience and human condition through literary texts and artistic forms.

Select one course: 3 credit hours

Select one course: 3 credit hours

Courses in science will emphasize understanding and application of everyday phenomena. Laboratories will be discovery based and emphasize the development and testing of hypotheses, or they may expose students to observational experiences that enhance scientific understanding.

Select two courses: 8 credit hours

Courses in history and social science are designed to give students a broad understanding of the sweep of world historical, governmental, and cultural events. Through reading, lectures, discussions, and writing, these courses will enhance the critical abilities of students by providing tools and practices that are universal in application. Ultimately, students should be better able to understand contemporary events by grasping how historical, political, and cultural events have combined to create the world in which they live.

Select two courses: 6 credit hours

Select one course: 3 credit hours

Courses in biblical studies will introduce the student to practical methods of Bible study, critical evaluation of scholarship and interpretation, and the richness and depth of the biblical text. Courses in theology will engage the student in a systematic approach to biblical matters, will have students explore different perspectives and relevant issues, and guide students to formulate personal viewpoints and positions. Courses in historical studies trace the origin and development of the Bible, Christianity, Seventh-day Adventism, and other religions.

Select four courses: 12 credit hours, one course must be numbered 300 or above. 

One course must be numbered 300 and above. Transfer students from a non-SDA college must complete one course for each academic year in attendance, with a minimum of 2 courses (one in Biblical Studies).

Students completing a degree must be proficient in the application of the principles of effective oral communication including discussion techniques and public presentations. Proficiency will be determined by the completion of a department designated course or courses.

The Bulletin description of approved courses includes the statement "This course fulfills the Communication Competency requirement as specified in the Core Curriculum." Unless specified in the major, the following courses meet the proficiency requirement:

Select one course: 3 credit hours