Springfield College Core Curriculum
Itai doshin is a Buddhist expression meaning many in body, one in mind. While this phrase has been interpreted in many ways...[it] describes the relationship of the various components of this proposed revision of the Springfield College Core Curriculum. Each of its components relies on the others to help create an "educated" student, not just a person who completes a degree from Springfield College. Students will learn to think through problems, issues and ideas from many perspectives (accomplished in Springfield College Seminar, Foundations for the Future, and Understanding the World). Later, they will apply what they have learned along with the expanding knowledge and perspectives of their major to consider a theme outside their field of study (Themed Explorations). Ultimately they will be able to use this multiple perspective/interdisciplinary approach to enrich and extend knowledge within their "home" discipline to examine an issue from a multi-disciplinary perspective before they graduate as part of their Core Capstone Work.
This Core Curriculum is faithful to the Springfield College mission and further strengthens the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body. It is a cornerstone of a Springfield College education. Regardless of one’s major, it provides a strong, developmental, and holistic foundation for leaders in service to humanity. Upon completion, all graduates will be prepared to learn, lead, and serve in diverse, multicultural, and global contexts as well as in any career path they may choose. They will have the knowledge, habits of the mind, skills, and abilities to face unexpected situations and challenges, the values and attitudes for self-motivation and a vision of service that stems from hope, optimism and making a difference, as well as the self-determination to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Here is a full description of the Springfield College Core Curriculum, adapted by the Faculty Senate April 19, 2019, and amended as indicated. This Core Curriculum launched in Fall 2020 and all students matriculating in and after Fall 2020 follow this curriculum.
Resources
- Here's a visual of the Core Curriculum, to use in advising students as they progress through the Core
- An overview of the Core, found in the Academic Advising's Core Curriculum Booklet
- Glossary of Core Terms
- A guide for advising students in the Core (updated Fall 2022)
- The regularly updated-list of approved courses in the Core (updated by the Registrar's office)
- Core FAQ page
- Signature Assignment "how-to" (for instructors of Core courses) and slides from a March 2022 workshop on creating SAs
- Core Domain Video Collection introducing the different domains of the Core (used in SCSM, also good for advising)
Contact Info for the Core Curriculum
Core Curriculum Director
Lisa Bromberg
(413) 748-3668
lbromberg@springfieldcollege.edu