Essential Education

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Education for Tomorrow

Essential Education prepares students to become successful leaders in the technologically integrated world of tomorrow.

What is Essential Education?

Beginning in fall 2025, the Essential Education curriculum will replace Michigan Tech’s current general education requirements in support of the University's Tech Forward Initiatives.

Essential Education is a forward-thinking, student-centered curriculum that allows students to take ownership of their learning and apply it to the complex challenges of a diverse and rapidly changing technological society. After graduating, Huskies will enter the workforce of tomorrow fully prepared for currently unimagined opportunities and career paths.

 

Undergraduate students chatting and studying outside with coffee

Through the Essential Education curriculum, students will:

  • Receive an introduction to the Michigan Tech experience and the wide range of opportunities available at the University.
  • Take courses that strengthen 12 Essential Abilities—including courses in both STEM and SHAPE* fields.
  • Think deeply and broadly about the big questions of our time, applying the tools and insights of multiple disciplines to become agile, culturally aware, and creative thinkers.
  • Participate in activities that promote their well-being and success.
  • Complete high-impact experiences, including first-year seminars, an ePortfolio to showcase their accomplishments during their time on campus, and more.

Plus, students will have the option to choose between two distinct pathways, with one allowing them to earn an interdisciplinary minor with no additional time or money.

* SHAPE: Social Sciences, Humanities, and the Arts for People and the Economy/Environment

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Ready to learn more?

Essential Education is more than just general education, renamed. The curriculum is structured around the Essential Abilities—the critical skills that tomorrow’s workforce needs. Learn more about the Essential Abilities, how they're incorporated into the curriculum requirements, and why this new program will benefit students and employers alike.

Essential Education and you

Get familiar with the information you need to know about Essential Education at Michigan Tech.

High School Students
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Transfer Students
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Michigan Tech Students
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Academic Advisors
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Employers
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At Tech, we believe it is our responsibility to ensure that Huskies are prepared to enter and succeed in this changing world. Essential Education will give them the tools they need to become the culturally responsive, civically engaged leaders tomorrow needs.
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