The purpose of Artscore is to develop in students an appreciation of the arts as a vital element in understanding the human condition and to prepare students for a lifetime of arts audience membership. The course explores the interrelationships among the artist, artwork, and audience using the concepts of freedom and responsibility as integrating themes. Artscore involves preparation for and evaluation/discussion of arts experiences; attendance at arts events is a requirement of the course.

Taken before the completion of the sophomore year.

First Year Seminar provides new students at Saint Mary’s University with an integrated, initial academic experience that enables them to successfully begin the process of developing a Lasallian identity as educated and compassionate adults committed to ethical participation in our global society. To facilitate a practical transition from high school to college, emphasis is placed on developing the academic skills and attitudes necessary for students to think critically about those questions that help shape their identity as young adults: who am I?, what can I become? and how can I become that person?

Perspectives on the good human life, taken in the sophomore year, moves beyond the first year seminar focus of self-identity to explore various historical and contemporary perspectives on living life well. In the spirit of LaSalle’s commitment to serving others and his recognition of the value of those less fortunate, this course challenge students to examine how their own pursuit of the good life fits into a larger social and historical picture. As a writing-intensive course, Perspectives allows students the opportunity to develop their writing skills from the initial stages of critical reading to drafting and revision.

Global issues, taken during a student’s junior year, is designed to cultivate in students an understanding of the complexities inherent in our emerging global society and the ethical issues confronting them as members of a culturally diverse world. Each section of the course examines one or more specific problems or issues emerging from a global context by considering the issue(s) from multiple perspectives and with special attention toward the Lasallian concern for social justice.

The purpose of capstone, taken during the senior year, is to help students understand how they can both integrate and live the Lasallian charism in their adult lives. Readings, discussion, and assignments focus on the historical and philosophical origins of the United States and its multicultural character. The course explores how these origins affect a student’s understanding of citizenship, work, relationships, and faith.