All SCS undergraduates dive deep into their particular field of study, but they also must meet general education requirements that provide depth. These requirements give students the chance to learn more about the world from scientific and humanistic points of view — skills our students will need as they solve problems with scientists and engineers, artists, social and cognitive scientists, historians, linguists, economists and business experts. Plus, SCS students will need to communicate effectively and understand the ethical implications of their work. The general education requirements help our students gain this broad perspective so they can work well in a changing, connected world. 

Requirements Overview

All SCS students must complete a minimum of 63 units of humanities and arts requirements and a minimum of 36 units of science and engineering requirements. For the humanities and arts requirements, SCS students must complete:

• A first-year writing class.
• Three constrained electives in specific areas of the humanities and arts, 9 or more units per course.
• Three open electives in the humanities and arts (with some exclusions), 9 or more units per course.

For the science and engineering requirements, SCS students must complete:

• Four courses in science and engineering (with some exclusions), 9 or more units per course.
• Two of these four courses must be from the same department.
• One of these four courses must be a laboratory course from a list provided by SCS.

Mini courses may be allowed as a half course for some of these requirements. SCS students should consult with an advisor for details.

All SCS students must also complete Core@CMU (3 units), typically during their first year, to gain exposure to the core competencies that all CMU students should demonstrate upon graduation. 

Note for Current Students

Review your Stellic audit for any recent changes, as it may reflect additions made after the Undergraduate Course Catalog was published.