Article by Joel Grimsley, Arts Editor
Grand Rapids, Mich. – Aquinas College has introduced a new policy allowing students to waive one of their required General Education courses, providing more flexibility in their academic schedules.
This change, which was introduced in Fall 2024, was approved by faculty last spring in an effort to offer students greater freedom to explore additional courses or manage potential schedule conflicts.
Under the new policy, students can choose to waive one of the following General Education Distribution courses:
- A Social Science course
- A Humanities course
- Four credits of Fine Arts
- A 102 Level World Language course
- A Mathematics course
- A Natural Science course (without a lab)
This waiver aims to ease students’ course loads while maintaining a robust academic experience. Faculty made this decision in “hope this will avail students with a little more flexibility in their schedule for classes that may conflict with their other requirements.”
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the waiver, students must achieve junior status (60 credits) or senior status (90 credits). After meeting with their faculty advisor, students may submit their waiver request to the Registrar’s Office through the “Waive One General Education Course” form.
The waiver applies to both new and transfer students entering Aquinas College in Fall 2024, as these students will automatically be placed in the updated 2024 curriculum. No additional action is required for these students if they wish to take advantage of the new option.
Options for Returning Students
Returning students who began their studies under a previous curriculum may opt into the 2024 curriculum to benefit from the waiver. However, Aquinas has warned that switching to the new curriculum could lead to additional major requirements not present in earlier versions. The college encourages these students to consult their advisors before making the switch to avoid any unintended complications.
“Particularly when changing catalog years, it’s important for students to discuss this option with their advisors to ensure it won’t interfere with their academic plans,” said Kyle Wigboldy from AQ Registrar.
The General Education Waiver is part of Aquinas College’s ongoing efforts to support students in achieving a well-rounded education while also recognizing the need for flexibility in today’s academic environment.For more information, students are encouraged to contact their academic advisors or the Registrar’s Office. Follow this link to find the One General Education Waiver form https://www.aquinas.edu/offices/registrar/registrar-forms.html
Student Studying – Photo by Joel Grimsley
The Saint 