The Wisdom Core curriculum consists of four components: Cornerstone Seminar, Foundation Courses, Keystone Designations and Threshold Experiences. Together, these will amount to 39-42 credit hours that will comprise the heart of your Jesuit education and prepare you to enter post-graduate life with greater communication and critical thinking skills, multifaceted knowledge beyond your major and an enhanced worldview.
Cornerstone Seminar (2 credits)
The Cornerstone Seminar introduces all new Rockhurst University students to our mission, academic values and Jesuit tradition. Each section of the Cornerstone Seminar is uniquely designed by faculty to explore an engaging topic in their areas of expertise.
Foundation Courses (37-40 credits)
The Foundation Courses supply you with a solid core of study with fundamental academic knowledge in the arts and sciences. Six categories of Foundation Courses must be fulfilled:
Foundations | Disciplines | Courses | Credits |
The Natural World | Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Natural Sciences (with lab) | 1 | 4 |
History & Culture | Art, Music, Theater History Literature | 1 1 1 | 3 3 3 |
Individuals and Society | Criminal Justice, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, | 2 | 6 |
Universal Questions | Philosophy Theology/Religious Studies Philosophy or Theology/Religious Studies | 1 1 1 | 3 3 3 |
Eloquentia Perfecta | Composition Oral Communication | 1-2 1 | 3-6 3 |
Quantitative Reasoning | Mathematics | 1 | 3 |
Keystone Designations
The Keystone Designations are specific learning outcomes that are fulfilled within your upper-division coursework, primarily in your selected major or minor. They will help you sharpen your skills in areas that will result in lifelong enrichment and benefits. Students will complete upper-division courses that fulfill one of each of the keystone designations:
- Critical Thinking
- Information and Quantitative Literacy
- Artistic, Creative and Innovative Expression
- Communication and Collaboration Skills
- Intercultural Awareness and Sensitivity
- Global Citizenship
- Ethical Reasoning and Social Engagement
Threshold Experiences
Students will engage in at least one upper-division course that promises a Threshold Experience. Here's where you will apply what you have learned and prepare for your career or graduate study.
These high-impact practices include:
- Writing-intensive
- Interdisciplinary or service-learning coursework
- Internships
- Reflective portfolios
- Study abroad
- Undergraduate research
For more information on the Wisdom Core, please visit the Rockhurst Catalog.
We're in this together and here to help during every step of your journey to achieve your academic goals.
