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Core Curriculum

The Core Curriculum is comprised of foundational courses designed to foster academic depth and breadth within the Bachelor of Arts degree. The Core Curriculum requirements constitute 30 credits of the 120 total credits necessary to complete a Bachelor of Arts degree. 

The Contemplative Learning Seminar and the Body/Mind Area Requirement must be taken at Naropa University. No transfer credit will be accepted or applied toward these Core requirements. Writing Seminar II cannot be fulfilled with any AP or CLEP scores. Only research-based writing courses will fulfill this Core Seminar.

Core Seminars (15 credits)

SUBTOTAL 15

Area Requirements (15 credits)

Artistic Process (choose 3 credits)

Courses in Artistic Process approach art forms as a practice, igniting one’s creative possibilities through discovery, delight, and creating art in a contemplative way. The focus is on the self-expression of one’s inner artist, infused with informed articulation of art as a means to engage with the world.


Body/Mind Practice (choose 3 credits)

The knowledge of life that comes from experiencing the unified wholeness of mind and body is both dynamic and direct. This is the meaning of “yoga”—that which fully joins mind and body. We train in developing this knowledge through disciplines emphasizing both stillness and movement, sound and silence. This training strengthens our capacity to feel sensation, heighten perception, appreciate impermanence, and remain open and responsive equally to pleasure and discomfort. Through such training, students deepen clarity of awareness, kindness toward themselves, and empathy for others. These gifts will support the aspiration to contribute to the world in a creative and skillful way.


Cultural & Historical Studies (choose 3 credits)

Understanding both our common humanity and our different histories is critical for effective living in today’s world. Cultural and Historical Studies courses examine complex cultural practices—the meaning and practices of everyday life—and their relationship to power in historical and contemporary contexts. Courses in this area explore a range of diverse cultural experiences while building understanding and respect for profound political and social differences.


Science & Sustainability (choose 3 credits)

Science connects us to the world in meaningful ways, expanding horizons of understanding and engaging the mystery of our universe. Courses in science and sustainability invite students to experience the complexity and beauty of natural systems through diverse modes of inquiry, including empirical, observational, and quantitative/mathematical investigation. Science emphasizes direct observation, the importance of evaluating evidence to guide theory, and the application of theory to promote sustainability. Scientific literacy is essential to mature and active citizenship.


World Wisdom Traditions (choose 3 credits)

Through courses in World Wisdom Traditions, students inquire into the wisdom that resides in the religions of many different human communities. They investigate the relationship between their own experience and ancient and contemporary teachings, exploring the relevance of those teachings for their lives. Students in world wisdom courses develop knowledge of the complex histories, lineages, sacred texts and stories, rituals, and ethics of the world’s wisdom traditions.

Total Credits 30

Bachelor of Arts Degree

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