What Is a Core Curriculum?

A core curriculum is a set of courses that every student in a college, school or program must take, so that all graduates share a common body of knowledge and skills. It might include foundational readings in literature and philosophy, courses in writing and mathematics, and introductions to science and society.

How it differs from general education

The two terms overlap and colleges use them differently. In general, a core curriculum is more fixed: students take the same or very similar courses, often in a set sequence. General education usually refers to a broader distribution model, where students choose from menus of approved courses in each area.

Some institutions with a strong core, such as certain liberal arts colleges and universities with great books programs, build the identity of the school around it. Others use the word core for the required courses within a particular school, such as a business core of accounting, finance, marketing and management that every business student takes before specializing.

Why it matters

A core curriculum shapes your first two years and sometimes more. It can limit flexibility, since there are fewer free electives, and it can give a sense of shared experience and a strong foundation. When choosing a college, check how large and how fixed the core is, and whether AP, IB or transfer credits can replace any of it.

Planning tips

Read the catalog's description of the core and the order in which courses should be taken. Some core courses are prerequisites for later ones, and some are offered only in certain terms. Use the degree audit to check progress each semester.

Related terms

See general education requirements, major, elective, prerequisite and degree audit.