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Syracuse University’s College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs will launch a revised Liberal Arts Core in fall 2025. The new curriculum is designed to prepare students for challenges such as artificial intelligence, environmental issues and social justice.

The two colleges announced the LAC will be updated to reflect an evolving world and equip students with the skills needed to address global challenges. Beginning in fall 2025, all A&S and Maxwell students will need to fulfill the new requirements to graduate.

“As we confront complex issues like climate change and human health and well-being, it’s crucial for students to be ready to face both current and emerging challenges,” A&S Dean, Behzad Mortazavi said in a Tuesday release.

New requirements will cover a range of subjects and courses, ensuring a well-rounded degree across several essential areas, including:

• Global and International Perspectives
• Languages
• Arts, Literature, Cultures
• Politics, Historical Perspectives and Society
• Natural Sciences and the Physical Environment
• Mind, Cognition, Ethics, Thought
• Quantitative Reasoning, Data and Numerical Literacy
• Research and Experiential Learning

Faculty and leaders from both schools began an evaluation of the LAC starting in 2020. Dean Emerita of A&S, Karin Ruhlandt; SU Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost, Lois Agnew; and Maxwell Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Carol Faulkner, led the effort to revise the curriculum.

A committee of representatives from various departments, including humanities, sciences, mathematics and social sciences also evaluated the original core and recommended changes. Students, professors and alumni then provided input on the changes implemented.

All students dually enrolled in A&S and the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications or School of Education will also be held in the new LAC beginning in fall 2025.

Published on January 19, 2025 at 10:50 pm

Contact Shivika: sgupta38@syr.edu