Frequently Asked Questions

Who can advise me on my General Education requirements?
Your regular advisor should be able to assist you in making course selections within the general education program. Additional advising specific to general education is also available in the University Advising Center (238 Colvard) and from advising offices in the colleges.

Where can I find information about the old General Education Program?
The general education requirements for any student enrolled before Fall 2003 are clearly outlined in the 2001-2003 Undergraduate Catalog under Goals of UNC Charlotte General Education, General Education Requirements and Approved Courses. 

I was readmitted to the University under the "Two-Year Rule." Which General Education Program applies to me?
Readmits who have been gone more than two years return to the university under the new catalog, which means that they will be expected to meet the requirements associated with the new General Education Program. However, such students may revert back to the old General Education Program by completing a Special Request Form (available in Denny 118) and having it signed by the Dean of University College (Dr. John Smail, Denny 118).

I took an Environmental Science course at my previous institution and I think it ought to count towards my lab science requirement. [OR any other similar question about transfer equivalency]
Students who wish to appeal the evaluation of a transfer course for the purposes of the General Education Requirements will need to submit a Transfer Credit Reevaluation Form. (Copies of the form are available online, in the University College Office in 118 Denny, and in College advising offices.) Students must attach documentation—a catalog course description or in some cases a syllabus—with their request.

I took a course that had a lot of writing in it; is it possible to have that course counted towards my W goal?
For courses taken at UNC Charlotte, this is not possible except in the rare instances where departments have made an error in course scheduling.  In the case of transfer classes, students will need to demonstrate that writing -–including the revision process-- was an integral, on-going part of the course activity and formed a significant element in the final course grade.  Generally this determination will require that you submit a syllabus from the class with your Transfer Credit Revaluation Request.

Is it possible to get exceptions made to General Education requirements?
In general, no; the Gen Ed requirements are meant to cover the essential areas of the liberal arts education and substitutions or exceptions would therefore undermine the program’s coherence.  However, there are instances in which circumstances require a review.  Any exceptions to Gen Ed requirements must be presented on an Academic Petition form with appropriate supporting documentation and signatures.  You should consult with an advisor before submitting any request as they will be able to assist you in determining what requests are viable.

Can I take Gen Ed classes elsewhere and transfer them to UNC Charlotte?
Ideally, students admitted to UNC Charlotte should complete their program of study, including General Education, at the university.  However, there are circumstances in which students do take classes elsewhere.  In order to get credit for such classes you must complete a Transient Study form, getting approval from all departments for the courses for which you are seeking credit, when completed the form goes to your college office for final approval.