Essential Learning and General Education Requirements

As of Fall 2015, General Education transitioned to Essential Learning. The Essential Learning and General Education (Gen. Ed.) requirements are a set of University-wide basic courses that form the foundation of all undergraduate degree programs.

Things to note:

• The Essential Learning and Gen. Ed. listings can be found under the Undergraduate Requirements section of the CMU Catalog.
• Students who are pursuing an Associates of Applied Sciences have a fewer number of Essential Learning or Gen. Ed. Requirements.
• Some majors require specific Essential Learning or Gen. Ed. courses, so students should consult with an advisor before selecting which Essential Learning or Gen. Ed. courses to take.
• Baccalaureate degree-seeking students are required to complete Essential Learning Capstone course ESSL 200, Essential Speech, and ESSL 290, Maverick Milestone. For information on ESSL 290 course topics offered in a given semester, please visit the ESSL 290 Course Descriptions page.
• For more information on your selected program of study and coordinating requirements, please visit the CMU Catalog.

Essential Learning Requirement Lists

2023-2024

• Baccalaureate and Associate (AA/AS) Essential Learning
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Essential Learning

2022-2023

• Baccalaureate & Associate (AA/AS) Essential Learning
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Essential Learning

2021-2022

• The Essential Learning Requirements information for 2021-22 is available in the archived 2021-22 catalog website.