In their studies, their work, and their personal lives, Barnard students can avail themselves of the city's unparalleled resources. Barnard seeks to ensure that students become aware of, and knowledgeable about, their physical being. Students complete two courses that focus on physical activity, fitness, and well-being. The College also provides additional opportunities for students to exercise and to learn more about fundamental elements of good health and women's health issues. Every student, whatever her level of attainment, can learn to improve her skills of writing, analysis, and argumentation.
Students choose among several clusters that differ in topic.
Reading and writing assignments focus on major works of literature supplemented by material from other sources. Transfer students are not required to take this course, but must have completed a comparable course, either at their previous institution or at Barnard, before graduation. This course emphasizes the enhancement of writing and communication skills and the group-discussion mode of intellectual inquiry and discourse. Seminars center on major themes or issues, and participants read and discuss a limited number of important philosophical, historical, literary, or scientific texts. Students and faculty engage in an extended consideration of a theme of general human concern, one that goes beyond departmental boundaries.