Frequently Asked Questions
What is double counting, and is it allowed in GE?
Starting with the 2019-20 catalog, when a major or support course has already been approved for GE credit, students will receive both GE and major credit.
PLEASE NOTE: This policy does not apply to students on catalogs from 2017-19 or earlier.
What is the United States Cultural Pluralism (USCP) requirement?
USCP is a university requirement, and faculty are encouraged to develop GE courses that also meet the USCP requirements. A list of current USCP courses can be found here in the catalog. This list will indicate if a course fulfills a GE area and the USCP requirement.
How does the GE program support Cal Poly's DEI efforts? GE Gender and Diversity Commitment
Cal Poly seeks to provide its students with an education rich in diverse experiences and perspectives to enhance their understanding and tolerance for others. The GE program affirms the university's commitment to diversity as a value central to the education of Cal Poly students.
Are there courses that include service learning components?
Faculty are encouraged to include service learning in all courses, including GE. Additional information, including a list of courses with service learning components, can be found here.
Who teaches GE courses?
Faculty teaching General Education courses should meet the following minimum qualifications or their equivalent:
- An understanding and appreciation of the educational objectives of Cal Poly's GE Program;
- For teaching lower-division courses, a master's degree in a related field (or, for teaching associates, appropriate training and supervision by an expert in the field);
- For teaching upper-division courses, a doctorate or an appropriate terminal degree in a related field is not required but is strongly expected;
- A professional commitment to the subject, as demonstrated by teaching experience, scholarly contributions, or continuing professional education.