Wisdom Core Curriculum

Students in a classroom, one focused on the professor and one on his laptop

Wisdom Core Curriculum

The Wisdom Core curriculum consists of four components: Cornerstone Seminar, Foundation Courses, Keystone Designations and Threshold Experiences. Together, these will amount to 39-42 credit hours that will comprise the heart of your Jesuit education and prepare you to enter post-graduate life with greater communication and critical thinking skills, multifaceted knowledge beyond your major and an enhanced worldview.

Cornerstone Seminar (2 credits)

The Cornerstone Seminar introduces all new Rockhurst University students to our mission, academic values and Jesuit tradition. Each section of the Cornerstone Seminar is uniquely designed by faculty to explore an engaging topic in their areas of expertise.

Foundation Courses (37-40 credits)

The Foundation Courses supply you with a solid core of study with fundamental academic knowledge in the arts and sciences. There are six categories of Foundation Courses that must be fulfilled:

Foundations

Disciplines

Courses

Credits

The Natural World

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Natural Sciences (with lab)

 1

 4

History & Culture

Art, Music, Theater

History

Literature

 1

 1

 1

 3

 3

 3

Individuals and Society

Criminal Justice, Economics, Psychology, Sociology,
Political Science

 2

 6

Universal Questions

Philosophy

Theology/Religious Studies

Philosophy or Theology/Religious Studies

 1

 1

 1

 3

 3

 3

Eloquentia Perfecta

Composition

Oral Communication

1-2

 1

3-6

 3

Quantitative Reasoning

Mathematics

 1

 3

Keystone Designations

The Keystone Designations are specific learning outcomes that are fulfilled within your upper-division coursework, primarily in your selected major or minor. They will help you sharpen your skills in areas that will result in lifelong enrichment and benefits. Students will complete upper-division courses that fulfill one of each of the keystone designations:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Information and Quantitative Literacy
  • Artistic, Creative and Innovative Expression
  • Communication and Collaboration Skills
  • Intercultural Awareness and Sensitivity
  • Global Citizenship
  • Ethical Reasoning and Social Engagement

Threshold Experiences

Students will engage in at least one upper-division course that promises a Threshold Experience. Here's where you will apply what you have learned and prepare for your career or graduate study.

These high-impact practices include:

  • Writing-intensive
  • Interdisciplinary or service-learning coursework
  • Internships
  • Reflective portfolios
  • Study abroad
  • Undergraduate research