Individuals in our society must be sufficiently knowledgeable about scientific facts and applications to make skilled decisions concerning their use in addressing society's problems. Courses in this area include the study of basic scientific knowledge, the role of applied science and technology as agents of change in society, and a laboratory component to develop an understanding of scientific inquiry. Each person, although unique, lives in a social world that exerts profound influence upon his or her attitudes, values and behavior. It is important to gain a sound understanding of oneself in relation to others and an understanding of the social institutions that people create and which serve to influence our lives. Courses in this area focus on the study of human behavior and social institutions.
Students have the opportunity to test specialized knowledge and personal experience of humanity.
These courses focus on what it means to be human, and what was, is, and should be valued by human beings. The arts represent a fusion of the emotional, spiritual and intellectual realities of the human condition. Study of the arts leads to heightened aesthetic experiences and deepens cultural understanding. These include courses that focus on understanding, appreciating and experiencing the fine and performing arts. The miracles of modern medicine exist side by side with many kinds of limiting physical conditions such as heart disease and obesity.