| Policy Number: ACAD 104 | Policy Title: General Education and Breadth Courses |
| Supersedes Existing Procedure? Y | Policy Sponsor: Senior Vice-President Academic and Chief Learning Officer |
| Associated Policy: N | Policy Owner: Dean, Interdisciplinary Studies |
| Next Review Date: August 2028 | Date Last Approved by the CET: August 2025 |
| Related Documents and Links |
1. Purpose
Loyalist College is committed to developing well-rounded graduates by incorporating general education and breadth courses that expand learning beyond the core field of study. These courses promote critical thinking, cultural and societal awareness, and interdisciplinary understanding. This policy outlines the requirements for general education and breadth learning in diploma and degree programs, in accordance with the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security (MCURES) Binding Policy Directive: Framework for Programs of Instruction and the Postsecondary Education Quality Assessment Board (PEQAB) standards for degree-level programming.
2. Application
This policy applies to all Ontario college diploma, advanced diploma, and degree programs. General education or breadth courses are not required for credentials outside of the scope of this policy. Where a general education or breadth course is included in other credentials or programs, students must successfully complete the required courses in the program of study.
3. Definitions
Breadth course: A course offered in a degree program that focuses on subjects outside the student’s main field of study. Also referred to as a non-core course.
Elective course: A course selected by the student, based on interest and availability. Elective courses may count toward general education or breadth requirements, depending on the program, but are required within the program of study.
General education course: A course offered in a diploma or advanced diploma program that focuses on subjects outside of their main field of study that is either elective or required.
Introductory level breadth course: A non-core course in a degree program that introduces key concepts and theories, establishing foundational knowledge and analysis.
Mandatory general education or breadth courses: A course identified and required by the program or college for program completion and is listed in the program of study.
Professional option course: An elective course related to a student’s main area of study. These do not satisfy the general education or breadth requirements.
Program of Study: The prescribed and approved sequence of courses and learning activities that a student must successfully complete in order to receive an Ontario College credential or other recognized qualification.
Upper-level breadth course: A non-core course that involves deeper thinking, analysis, and understanding of complex topics than introductory-level breadth courses.
4. Policy
The requirement of general education and breadth courses in diploma, advanced diploma, and degree programs reflects Loyalist College’s commitment to preparing well-rounded graduates. These courses encourage students to explore ideas beyond their main area of study, helping them build the knowledge, skills, and awareness to think critically, understand diverse perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to the society in which they live and work.
4.1 General Education Courses (Diploma and Advanced Diploma Programs)
General education courses help students in diploma and advanced diploma programs explore broad themes beyond vocational training. These courses must fall within one of the following five themes:
- Arts in society
- Civic life
- Social and cultural understanding
- Personal understanding
- Science and technology
To meet general education requirements:
- Courses must not be tied to vocational outcomes, prerequisites, or essential employability skills.
- Students must complete the number of general education courses required by their program of study.
- Courses may be mandatory or elective and offered in a range of delivery formats, but at least one course will be elective.
4.2 Breadth Courses (Degree Programs)
Breadth courses in degree programs expose students to subjects outside their main area of study and help build higher-level skills in communication, critical thinking, and civic engagement. To meet breadth requirements:
- Students must complete breadth courses that include knowledge of Indigeneity and at least two of the following areas:
- Humanities
- Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Global cultures
- Mathematics
- Students must complete at least two upper-level breadth courses, and successfully complete at least one introductory-level, or English or critical thinking, course before enrolling in an upper-level breadth course.
- Courses may be mandatory or elective and offered in a range of delivery formats, but at least one course will be elective.
- Students must complete the number of general education courses required by their program of study.
- Professional option courses related to the student’s main field of study do not meet breadth requirements.
4.3 Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of prior learning (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)), transfer credit, and exemptions for general education and breadth requirements will follow the college’s established processes, ensuring compliance with the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security’s Binding Policy Directive and applicable quality assurance frameworks.
4.4 Quality Assurance
General education and breadth courses are reviewed annually, as part of the college’s annual program quality review process. This review evaluates:
- Course alignment with the Ontario Qualifications Framework and relevant policy directives
- Representation across required themes or subject areas
- Course variety and delivery modes
- Feedback from students and faculty
- Relevance to current and emerging societal needs
Course development, revision, and retirement decisions reflect Loyalist’s strategic priorities, values, and commitment to academic excellence.
6. Related Documents
- Binding Policy Directive: Framework for Programs of Instruction
- Postsecondary Education Quality Assessment Board Manual for Ontario Colleges: Four Year Degrees April 2024
- Postsecondary Education Quality Assessment Board Manual for Ontario Colleges: Three Year Degrees April 2024
- Ontario Qualifications Framework