About the Core

The University Core Curriculum introduces students to ten central Core Areas of university learning, with a consistent focus on learning outcomes for those Core Areas. Core coursework develops students' understanding through knowledge and experience in the Core Areas of Artistic, Ethical, Historical, Literary, Quantitative, Philosophical, Scientific, Societal and Cultural, and Theological and Religious Knowledge and Inquiry, plus written communication in the College Writing Seminar. In addition to knowledge and skills development, Core courses integrate and promote values essential to a Loyola education, such as understanding diversity in the US or the world, understanding and promoting justice, and understanding spirituality or faith in action in the world. Many courses in the Core were specifically designed to highlight the value of diversity. 

To complete the University Core Curriculum, students will take 16 courses across ten Core Areas. Two courses are required in six of these areas (Historical, Literary, Scientific, Societal and Cultural, Philosophical, and Theological and Religious Knowledge and Inquiry). Students will begin their studies in these six areas with a foundational (or Tier I) course that will introduce them to critical ideas and methods of analyses in that area.  After completing the foundational course, students will have an array of options to further their studies by taking one of a variety of Tier II classes to pursue particular interests in more depth.  The other four areas (College Writing Seminar and Artistic, Quantitative, and Ethical Knowledge and Inquiry) require one course each. 

Some Core Area requirements can be satisfied by virtue of completing a major or minor program of study, given the extensive work a student must do in a particular knowledge area while pursuing such a program of study. Please see the Core and your major and minor for more information. Students in the Interdisciplinary Honors Program should note the relationship between the Honors Program and Core Curriculum.

Please note that these requirements apply to students obtaining a bachelor's degree. Students entering as freshmen, transfer students, and Arrupe College students have distinct requirements for completing the Core Curriculum. 

What's next? Head to the Core Curriculum Guide to find out more about the specific Core requirements and learn about courses being offered.