San Joaquin Delta College Associate Degree General Education Pattern

The San Joaquin Delta College General Education (SJDC GE) pattern provides students with a broad foundation of knowledge and skills that support lifelong learning, personal growth, and preparation for transfer or the workforce. Through this program, students strengthen their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, apply quantitative reasoning, explore diverse cultures and histories, and reflect on ethical issues and personal responsibility. Completion of the SJDC GE pattern ensures that graduates share a common core of knowledge and intellectual skills while also pursuing depth in a chosen field of study. A grade of “C” or better is required in each course used to satisfy Area 1 (English Composition, Oral Communication, and Critical Thinking) and Area 6 (Ethnic Studies). A single course may be used to meet both a general education and a major requirement, but it cannot be used to satisfy more than one general education area. Students planning to transfer should consult a counselor to determine whether the Cal-GETC pattern may be a more appropriate option.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

1. Area 1. English Composition, Oral Communication, and Critical Thinking Group A. English Composition Students will demonstrate clear and precise written expression and critical evaluation of communication in the English language.
2. Area 1. English Composition, Oral Communication, and Critical Thinking Group B. Oral Communication and Critical Thinking Students will demonstrate clear and precise oral expression and critical evaluation of communication in the English language.
3. Area 2. Mathematical Concepts and Quantitative Reasoning Students will demonstrate the ability to use mathematical concepts and principles in real-world contexts.
4. Area 3. Arts and Humanities Students will be aware of the ways in which people throughout the ages and in different cultures have responded to themselves and the world around them in artistic and cultural forms.
5. Area 4. Social and Behavioral Science Students will demonstrate knowledge of the modes of inquiry and theories that are used to think critically about the ways people act and have acted in response to their societies.
6. Area 5. Natural Sciences Students will demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and the relationship between science and human activities.
7. Area 6. Ethnic Studies Students will demonstrate a critical analysis and understanding of the cultural, economic, political, and social experiences of Native Americans, Chicana/o and Latina/o Americans, Black/African Americans, and/or Asian Americans in the United States.
8. Area 7. Self Development and Discovery Students will demonstrate individual competencies and personal responsibility through exploration and analysis of their role in society.
9. Area 8. American Institutions Students will demonstrate an understanding of the historical development of American institutions and ideals, the Constitution, and the representative forms of government that exist at the national, state and local level.