This new year brings big changes to general education requirements at Weber State University. Starting in summer 2025, students will need fewer credits to meet these requirements, plus the passing grade for general education courses has been lowered.
Previously, students had to earn a C grade to pass their general education classes. Now, they can pass with a D-. This shift aims to help students who want to transfer to other universities. A performance audit in late 2022 revealed that transferring could be tough due to different standards across schools. As a result, the General Education Task Force worked to simplify the requirements.
The total number of required general education credits decreased from 37 to 27. However, students still need to meet the overall graduation requirements: 60 credits for an associate degree and 120 for a bachelor’s degree.
Many students see these changes as a welcome relief. Declan Wilhelmsen, a freshman studying cybersecurity, mentions the benefits of taking fewer classes, which can save money on tuition. “If you are borrowing money or paying for college yourself, this is a good change,” he says.
Makaylee Hitt, another freshman, echoes this sentiment. “I don’t have a lot of money to spend, so a shorter time in school is better for me.”
For students like America Cuevas, a junior, the new rules lighten the load. “It’s easier now. General education feels less like a hassle and more about learning what interests me,” she shares.
However, not everyone is thrilled. Some worry that lowering the passing grade might impact the university’s academic integrity. Lily Sarafin, a freshman, feels grades in core courses should remain high to maintain quality. She notes, “For general classes, you’re just getting a broader education, but major-specific classes should have higher expectations.”
There are also concerns that professors might struggle with student participation if the standard is lowered. Wilhelmsen adds that some students might not want to engage, thinking a D- is sufficient.
Despite these worries, a minimum GPA of 2.0 is still needed for financial aid and graduation. The new policy aims to give students more flexibility, especially those transferring to other schools.
Miranda Houston, a junior, sees both sides of the issue. “It’s great for transfers, but I fear it might let some students slip by without truly learning.” She believes there should be a balance between easing requirements and ensuring students grasp what they learn.
Science Librarian Miranda Kispert agrees. “While making transfers easier is crucial, I hope we build a stronger system that truly supports students,” she says.
Leigh Shaw, the Director of General Education, insists these changes are positive. “They will help students complete their general education quickly, whether at Weber State or another university.” She emphasizes that if transfer students choose to move, it won’t pose the same challenges it did in the past.
Despite mixed feelings from students and faculty, Kispert believes the system will continue to evolve. “We’re just beginning this new approach, and adjustments will likely be made as we learn what works,” she predicts.
As students adapt to these new requirements, Shaw encourages everyone to work with their advisors to ensure they are on the right track.
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