The Integrated Core Curriculum at Northland College

Northland College pioneered environmental liberal arts in 1971. Since then, our visionary approach to academics has helped thousands of graduates make a difference in the world. In 2008, we again took a bold step, building on our innovative mission and creating a distinctive general education program that redefines environmental liberal arts education.

At the heart of this program are the Connections Curricula—Natural Connections, Growing Connections, and Superior Connections. These curricula integrate different approaches to common issues, and through them, students explore the relationships among the liberal arts, the environment, and the future of our planet and society. This approach is deeply practical because 21st Century work, particularly in the environment, demands people who can successfully incorporate multiple perspectives to achieve imaginative outcomes.

Each curriculum includes nine courses, eight of which are taught in integrated block formats and one of which focuses specifically on experiences beyond the classroom. Students select and complete either Natural, Growing, or Superior Connections in their first two years at Northland. During these years, students also enroll in elective courses and in courses required for an academic major. Transfer students complete portions of Natural Connections that are determined by the classes they have completed at other institutions.