General education requirements at most universities: What should I expect?

I'm planning for college and trying to understand what the general education requirements typically look like at most universities. Are there common classes that I'll likely need to take regardless of my major?

At most universities, general education (gen-ed) requirements represent a variety of courses across multiple disciplines that all students, regardless of their chosen major, are required to complete. These courses are designed to provide a well-rounded education and expose students to a broad base of knowledge in different subject areas, including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.

The actual classes can vary greatly depending on the institution, but generally, you can expect to take courses in the following areas:

1. Writing/Composition: Most universities require students to take one or several courses in English composition to develop strong written communication skills.

2. Mathematics: At least one course in math is common, whether it's algebra, calculus, statistics, or another course that fits your degree plan.

3. Sciences: This may include classes in physical sciences like chemistry or physics, and life sciences such as biology or environmental science.

4. Humanities: This broad category can encompass courses like literature, philosophy, religious studies, or art history.

5. Social Sciences: These can range from psychology and sociology to economics, political science, and anthropology.

6. Foreign Language: Many universities will require you to demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language, which can usually be achieved by taking a certain number of language classes.

7. Cultural and Diversity Studies: Some universities require coursework that focuses on appreciating cultural differences or understanding social inequality.

Some colleges may also require first-year seminars or specific courses tied to their mission or values. It's crucial to check each college's specific general education requirements when doing your research to get an accurate picture.

Both your major and gen-ed courses are valuable parts of your college education—the former providing depth in a particular subject area and the latter breadth across multiple disciplines. This combo helps to develop well-rounded students with diverse sets of skills and knowledge, which can be beneficial in today's interdisciplinary world.