Curriculum Overview
The Baylor Interdisciplinary Core (BIC) curriculum is an immersive journey through the ideas and questions that have shaped humanity. Designed to connect disciplines, challenge assumptions, and foster deep intellectual engagement, the BIC curriculum invites students to explore the world through a dynamic and interdisciplinary lens.
A Holistic Learning Experience
The BIC curriculum weaves together five major sequences— The Examined Life, World Cultures, The World of Rhetoric, Social World, and Natural World— each offering unique opportunities for exploration, growth, and connection. From understanding the roots of civilization to examining contemporary ethical issues, these courses are designed to expand your perspective and refine your critical thinking skills.
Course Sequences
The Examined Life
Your BIC journey begins with self-discovery and culminates in a capstone experience. In this sequence, you’ll develop the tools to navigate college life, reflect on your values, and connect your academic journey to the wider world.
- First Year: Explore human development and the transition to university life.
- Junior Year: Engage with Biblical heritage and ethical dilemmas.
- Senior Year: Integrate your learning into a comprehensive capstone project or class.
World Cultures
Travel through time and across civilizations in this five-course sequence that examines the ideas, art, and philosophies of humanity from its earliest days to the present.
- First Year: Discover the roots of culture and religion.
- Second Year: Investigate the modern world and the United States in a global context.
- Senior Year: Dive into cultural diversity with an intensive case study.
The World of Rhetoric
Develop your voice in this two-semester sequence that hones your writing and speaking skills. Through analysis, discussion, and practice, you’ll become an effective communicator who can engage with complex ideas and articulate them with clarity.
- First Year: Learn to write and speak with confidence and purpose.
- Spring Semester: Apply rhetorical strategies to analyze and respond to diverse perspectives.
Social World
Examine the foundations of human society and the possibilities for human fulfillment in this two-course sequence. By exploring political, economic, and social thought, you’ll grapple with questions that define civic and individual life.
- Second Year, Fall: Study the relationship between the city and the soul.
- Second Year, Spring: Analyze modern political and social systems.
Natural World
Explore the principles of science and its cultural implications in this two-semester sequence. With hands-on labs and multidisciplinary teaching, you’ll gain a deeper understanding how science shapes our world.
- Second Year: Delve into themes like matter, energy, and change
Flexible and Tailored Learning
BIC students also pursue courses outside of the program, tailored to their individual majors. These include:
- Math and foreign language requirements
- Major-specific prerequisites
- Electives that align with personal interest or career goals.
The BIC curriculum is designed to spark curiosity, inspire critical thinking, and prepare you to tackle the complexities of the modern world. Whether you’re studying the classics, debating contemporary ethics, or unraveling scientific phenomena, you’ll emerge with the skills and knowledge to lead with purpose and impact.