Cougar Core Structure

Kean first-year students enroll in theme-based Learning Communities to build connections and deepen learning in essential skills and interdisciplinary inquiry while examining contemporary topics. This is a cornerstone of the Cougar Core experience.

Kean students will complete 31–32 credits of Cougar Core courses, which fall into three main areas:

1. Essential Learning Courses

a. Build a strong academic foundation through courses in:

i. Writing

ii. Speech communication

iii. Critical reading and academic study skills

iv. Quantitative and scientific reasoning

2. Core Competency Courses

a. Explore courses aligned with our Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), including areas like:

i. Critical and creative thinking

ii. Ethical reasoning

iii. Intercultural knowledge and understanding

iv. Wellness

3. Inquiry & Analysis Passion Project or GE202X Research and Technology

a. This course, typically taken in the sophomore year, is a three‑credit research experience where learners investigate questions and topics that matter to them from the vantage point of their discipline or College.