Purpose:
Goal and Objectives of the Common Curriculum
(Approved December 16, 1999)
(Amended April 13, 2000)
The goal of the Common Curriculum is to provide a liberal and general education in accord with the Jesuit focus on the growth of the whole person. Thus the Common Curriculum promotes a values-based critical understanding of our lives and beliefs and of society and its institutions. The Common Curriculum also assures that Loyola students have the skills and knowledge needed to contribute productively and creatively to society.
The Objectives of the Common Curriculum are to help students develop:
- Effective skills in research, writing, speaking, reading and listening
- Mathematical proficiency and an understanding of the mathematical world
- Critical and analytical reasoning skills required to solve abstract and concrete problems.
- An understanding of the natural world, the scientific method and the power and limits of science.
- An understanding of philosophical and religious traditions.
- Knowledge and appreciation of the fine arts and great works of literature.
- Comprehension of the great historical, economic, political, social and technological forces that shape societies.
- An understanding of cultural traditions and perspectives other than our own, and of our own traditions from a more global perspective
- A commitment to social justice characteristic of the Judeo-Christian tradition and the Jesuit mission.
- The fullest capacity for intellectual and spiritual growth.
- An awareness of the connections among disciplines and of the interrelationships among all things.
- The ability to reflect on and critique the presupposed values latent within our world, our commitments, our beliefs, our methodologies, our institutions and our courses of study.
