ETSU emphasizes real-world skills in new core curriculum

Earlier today, East Tennessee State University faculty members unveiled a redesigned core curriculum emphasizing the real-world skills students need to succeed in their careers and as citizens. 

The new curriculum, which will be called "ETSU Compass," received unanimous approval by the university's Board of Trustees during its quarterly meeting. 

"The core curriculum of a university should reflect the institution's values and priorities," ETSU Provost Dr. Kimberly McCorkle said. "I am incredibly proud of the plan we have developed, as it clearly articulates the skill sets students need to find lifelong success in their careers. Perhaps more importantly, through these core classes, our students will gain the critical-thinking abilities and knowledge necessary to be active citizens — to both serve and lead with integrity, empathy and vision."  

ETSU Compass was developed through the extensive work of faculty members, staff and students. Students entering ETSU this fall will be the first to follow the new learning plan. 

"General education or core classes, historically, have been undervalued by parents and students," Dr. Sharon James McGee, co-chair of the committee that redesigned the curriculum, said. "These classes are often viewed as something to get out of the way, with the so-called 'real work' being those classes associated with a student's major. But, in reality, students' core classes should be just as important — or even more so — than those they take for their majors. These classes are foundational, giving students skills that will help them succeed throughout their lives in a variety of contexts." 

Dr. David Harker, the committee's second co-chair, noted that the new curriculum is designed to ensure students are versatile and adaptable, qualities they will need in today's rapidly changing world. 

"Gen Z students will likely change not only jobs but career fields repeatedly throughout their lifetimes," Harker said. "Some of the roles we are preparing them for do not exist yet. So, we must ensure they can break down problems, evaluate information and trends and develop social and emotional skills. They need to learn how to learn because they will have to do so continually for the rest of their lives. And they need to learn who they are — what they stand for, their strengths and weaknesses and the type of person they want to be. I think the name 'Compass' is particularly fitting because our goal is to help them chart their course and navigate life." 

A list of the new required courses is available at etsu.edu/compass.

East Tennessee State University was founded in 1911 with a singular mission: to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond. Through its world-class health sciences programs and interprofessional approach to health care education, ETSU is a highly respected leader in rural health research and practices. The university also boasts nationally ranked programs in the arts, technology, computing, and media studies. ETSU serves approximately 14,000 students each year and is ranked among the top 10 percent of colleges in the nation for students graduating with the least amount of debt.