As higher education faces pressure to improve affordability, shorten time to graduation and increase student retention, the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is revising its core education offerings. Because CAS is responsible for more than 85% of core ed at the University of Oregon, it has an opportunity to drive meaningful change for students.
This potential impact is evident when looking at the university’s retention data. In recent years, approximately 15% of undergrads at the UO do not come back for their second year. Another 17% return for their second year but are not on track to graduate in four years. Examination of the data indicates many of these students would come back and be on track for a four-year graduation if they had early access to courses that aligned with their interests, primarily in their core ed requirements.
“Students often see these courses as unpleasant hurdles that delay ‘what they’re really here for,’” said Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education Jamie Bufalino. “But core ed classes are meant to expand students’ horizons and help them build skills that are foundational to their success in college and beyond.”
To better support students, Bufalino and a committee of education experts developed a new approach: grouping core ed courses into themed “playlists.” These playlists encourage students to think more intentionally about core ed courses and see them as an opportunity to develop knowledge on topics of interest from across disciplines.
Making the plan a reality
Making meaningful changes to core ed also meant asking faculty to assess and revise their curricula. Bufalino worked with faculty, student advisors and campus partners to shape the playlists and offer a one-day summit for feedback and strategic planning with a larger group of representatives.
“Faculty are critical thinkers and creative at heart, and I hoped this challenge, packaged in a one-day opportunity, would attract those who wanted to make a difference for our students and for their own outcomes,” she said. “And no one knows what students need more of than the advising teams who work with them regularly.”
What the changes mean for students
For students, the goal is a core education experience that feels more accessible and meets their interests.
“The playlists are designed to get students excited about the liberal arts and the opportunity to develop skills that will help them be more successful in college and after,” said Bufalino.
Playlists will launch in Fall 2027. They will include lower-division classes only, include existing core ed courses, and have room for larger groups of first- and second-year students. The classes need to be approachable, exciting and have relevant introductory content for first- and second-year non-majors.
Classes included in the playlists will follow a consistent and predictable format to increase student success, using shared tools to communicate expectations and help students hold themselves accountable. Faculty will enhance their curriculum to provide hands-on learning through work and service, opportunities to conduct research and content on intercultural learning.
Advisors will help students review the core ed playlists, which will be flexible and not required. Students will not need to declare a playlist or complete the whole cluster and may take courses from different playlists.
“I’m grateful for the thoughtful work Jamie Bufalino and her team have put into this project that ensures CAS is delivering a liberal arts education that truly meets the moment,” said Tykeson Dean of the Arts and Sciences Chris Poulsen. “I’m encouraged by the momentum behind the team’s efforts and look forward to what comes next.”
— By Jenny Brooks, College of Arts and Sciences