Beginning in fall 2025, the Essential Education program will replace Michigan Technological University’s current general education requirements in support of the University's Tech Forward initiatives.
Essential Education is Michigan Tech’s forward-thinking, student-centered core education curriculum structured around four learning goals and 12 Essential Abilities—the critical skills that tomorrow’s workforce needs. The program lets Huskies take ownership of their learning and prepare for success after Michigan Tech, both personally and professionally.
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