NSAN ANSAN ems. 3. Background of Knowledge Across Fundamental Areas of Study 3 units 4. Cultural Understanding & Global Awareness 2 units 5. Social Responsibility & Ethical Behavior 1 unit 6. Integrate Knowledge & Think Creatively 1 unit 36 hours* differ- which st, will help The new KU Core will require all students to take 36 hours of general credits, which accomplishes six *Students will need 36 hours if all units are satisfied by three-credit-hour classes. Some KU Core classes simultaneously satisfy major requirements. Students may elect approved learning experiences to satisfy some goals. CLAS students are required to take 72 general education credits, which Danny Anderson, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, said disengages CLAS underclassmen "Students are having to take an unrealistic amount of general education requirements." because they spend their first two years in non degree-specific classes. HANNAH BOLTON Student Body President "Many students chose to leave KU because of this." Anderson said. "Others never came in the "Students are having to take an unrealistic amount of general education requirements," Bolton said. "It's the largest number I've heard of in the Big 12." students who decide to go to other universities do so in part on the basis on our current curriculum," Anderson said. "We have updated our curriculum and curricular structure to meet the needs of 21st be able to take advantage of the KU Core, the University's new common curriculum courses, set to go into effect for this fall's incoming freshmen. With the hope of boosting student retention, the KU Core aims to reduce the overall number of required general credit hours, said Hannah Bolton, student body president. Anderson said the common curriculum change will give students greater flexibility as the six learning outcomes can be met by a variety of classes. "Many top Source: Dean's Office of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with freshmen retention, as most first-year students are initially admitted to the CLAS before applying to a professional school at the University. As for current students, Bolton said only current freshmen may be eligible to opt into the KU Core. "This year's freshmen need to meet with their adviser to see if they can make it work." Bolton said. "It will be a lot more feasible to graduate in four years, especially students who are double majoring or switching their major." Edited by Paige Lytle