SLU-Madrid Implements New Undergraduate Core

Saint Louis University will launch its new undergraduate Core in Fall 2022.

"Now common to every undergraduate across all SLU programs, this is a move away from a discrete set of general education courses which students were encouraged to complete in their first two years," reflects Dr. Anne McCabe, Undergraduate Core Madrid Campus Associate Director. 

"The Core allows us to provide students with a well-rounded liberal arts background no matter what major a student chooses. The Core speaks to our Jesuit mission of educating the whole person." 

The goal of this new Core is to prepare all students to be intellectually flexible, creative, and reflective critical thinkers in the spirit of the Catholic, Jesuit tradition. It is designed to nourish students' minds, hearts, souls, and well-being, and to guide them in discerning how to use their talents for the good of others. 

The new Core incorporates the concept of cura personalis, with courses focused on student development through personal discovery. There is also a sequence of courses that build communication skills in writing, speaking and the visual arts ― eloquentia perfecta. An additional feature closely aligned with SLU's Jesuit identity is the reflection-in-action component that asks students to consider how engaging with the Madrid community enhances their understanding of acting with and for others.

"It has united the SLU community, as its design is based on an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to a liberal arts education, and from the outset has deeply involved faculty, staff and students across programs, departments, schools and campuses, including strong engagement with the Madrid Campus," says McCabe. 

Learn more about the new Saint Louis University Undergraduate Core here.