My Colby-Sawyer Experience
"My students are always kind of surprised to learn about what they have missed, what they haven't been paying attention to all their lives."
- Laura Alexander, Assistant Professor, Natural Sciences
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exploration areas
All Colby-Sawyer students explore subjects across the curriculum to broaden their knowledge and to have the opportunity to take courses in new areas. Three of these areas can be covered by Pathway stepping stones, and some exploration courses may also fulfill requirements in the major. Students choose one course from each of the following areas.
Fine and Performing Arts - 3 credits
The arts offer an understanding of culture through the study of art objects and visual communication. 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. In a rapidly changing world, the study of the humanities provides students a crucial means realize of their own potential, and for educated and effective participation in democratic society. Select from options in English, Humanities, Philosophy, Religion and Women's studies.
Literature - 3 credits
Literature courses focus on a body of imaginative texts to challenge students to reflect on their own lives through encounters with literary themes. The study of literature helps students enrich and deepen their own forms of self-knowledge and expression. Select from options in English or Community and Environmental Studies.
Science - 4 credits
Science is a basic and formative part of the 21st century, and all of us must make personal and public choices that require knowledge about the content and method of science. 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 applicable to the life of a non-scientist. Select from options in Biology, Community and Environmental Studies, Chemistry, Physics and Science.
Social Sciences - 3 credits
The social sciences focus on present-day interactions among people, society, and institutions. 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, Community and Environmental studies, Economics, Education, Psychology and Sociology.
History - 3 credits
History is the record and story of life as experienced by individuals and communities in the past. History courses help students understand the development of political, economic and social institutions and the evolution of contemporary social issues. History provides unique and essential insights into today's complex challenges. Select from options in American Studies and History, Society, and Culture.
In addition, students select one course from two of the following four areas:
Environmental Literacy - 3-4 credits
Environmental literacy involves an understanding of the interrelations of natural and social-cultural systems, and the ways in which human agency can both degrade and sustain the environment. Environmental literacy courses provide students the opportunity to study, reflect 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 Business, Community and Environmental Studies, and Philosophy.
Global Perspectives - 3 credits
Global perspectives involve an understanding of the power, responsibility and challenge associated with membership in a global community, economy, and environment. Global perspectives courses help students understand the culture, values, and histories of other societies and encourage the development of tolerance and broad-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 communications media as they shape the world through influence on our society. Media literacy courses study how a medium constructs reality and transmits values.
The study of media literacy 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 and Women's Studies.
Wellness - 3 credits
The Wellness model focuses on the five integrated components of well-being: the spiritual, emotional, physical, intellectual and social self. Wellness courses help students reflect on the various aspects of life that have an impact on health and well-being, 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.
