In 1994, Portland State University adopted a new general education program, University Studies, which provides students with a cohesive program of integrated learning experiences. The University Studies Program emphasizes group experience, employment and applied experience, community experience, and awareness of the urban setting.

The ultimate goal of University Studies is to enable graduates to develop the appropriate attitudes and skills needed to pursue lifelong learning. The University adopted four general education learning goals:

1. INQUIRY AND CRITICAL THINKING

Students will learn various modes of inquiry through interdisciplinary curricula--problem-posing, investigating, conceptualizing--in order to become active, self-motivated learners. Students will enhance their capacity to communicate in various ways--writing, graphics, numeracy, and other visual and oral means--to collaborate effectively with others in group work, and to be competent in appropriate communication technologies.

2. COMMUNICATION

Students will enhance their capacity to communicate in various ways--writing, graphics, numeracy, and other visual and oral means--to collaborate effectively with others in group work, and to be competent in appropriate communication technologies.

3. THE VARIETY OF HUMAN EXPERIENCE

Students will enhance their appreciation for and understanding of the rich complexity of the human experience through the study of differences in ethnic and cultural perspectives, class, race, gender, sexual orientation, and ability.

4. ETHICAL ISSUES AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Students will expand their understanding of the impact and value of individuals and their choices on society, both intellectually and socially, through group projects and collaboration in learning communities.