The modern and future global, high-tech economies will require college graduates that are adaptable, agile, flexible, and comfortable dealing with ambiguity.
Importantly, leaders in STEM and business agree that the core skills and knowledge most often associated with the humanities are the most important skills and knowledge that they need graduates to possess — and that far too many graduates are leaving college without them.
The texts in the core course taught key concepts such as progression in a non-progressive time, the deconstruction of heroism, and (ethnocentric) cultural folklore. These were all concepts that I only truly thought about when I took this class, and now I feel everyone should learn about these things sooner rather than later.
The Keystone Certificate helps students hone these core skills and knowledge via careful selection of courses that not only satisfy the certificate's requirements, but also fulfill General Education requirements so that you can graduate with the certificate without spending additional time in college!
Please review the certificate requirements and some data about why you should choose the certificate. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Dr. Michele Ramsey at emr10@psu.edu or Dr. Cheryl Nicholas at cln12@psu.edu.
The classes I've taken have encouraged me to think critically about the material. For example, in my Transformative Texts courses, we would engage with historical fiction and make connections to present topics and issues. I enjoyed writing, having discussions, and doing projects to make the literature become tangible. Also, the program has provided me with the skills necessary to become a better communicator.