Central to a Canisius education is the core curriculum, which provides the breadth of knowledge associated with a Jesuit education.  Core courses introduce students to literature, philosophy, religious studies, languages, history, mathematics, and the social sciences to provide a well-rounded liberal arts education.

The core curriculum is designed to meet three objectives.

  1. It immerses students in the study of the great questions that have faced humankind since the beginning of time, and examines how people have addressed those questions throughout history.
  2. The Area Studies component of the core investigates different areas of intellectual inquiry to help students sharpen their ability to make sound judgments about matters outside their chosen professions.
  3. The core develops students' writing and critical thinking skills and provides essential grounding in languages and mathematics.
Every Canisius student completes four specific courses: English Seminar I and II, Introduction to Religious Studies, and Introduction to Philosophy.  In addition, students will select two courses each from seven of eight areas: natural sciences, social sciences, art & literature, history, philosophy, religious studies, mathematical sciences, and foreign languages.  Students may choose from among more than 200 courses to fulfill the area studies requirements.

Our most successful alumni attest to the value of the core curriculum in both their personal and professional lives.