Why is it that one has to take classes in college that have nothing to do with the profession one wants to pursue. Such as someone who wants to become a medical doctor and having to take classes in history and math.
Or wanting to get a Phd. in Philosophy and having to take regular science classes.
Is it just to give some teachers a job or what?
2006-07-02 14:55:04 · 6 answers · asked by John L 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
OOPS!
I gave my patience 40 grms of medicine less instead of 40% less!
math had nothing to do with it
2006-07-02 15:00:01 · answer #1 · answered by fpoon77 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't agree that they are useless.
The examples that you give are particularly bad. A medical doctor needs to understand science, and mathematics is the language of science.
Someone getting a PhD in Philosophy should be versed in all areas of Philosophy. Two areas of study that dominated 20th century philsosophy are Analytical Philosophy and Philosophy of Science. In order to understand either of these areas, at least some basic knowledge of science is needed.
History may seem less important. However, you know the old saying about those who do not study history are doomed to repeat its mistakes.
There are actually many schools that don't have these kinds of requirements. The better schools do. Perhaps they are considered better schools because they require their students to get a broad education.
2006-07-02 15:09:28 · answer #2 · answered by Ranto 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Every subject field has a way of thinking and writing, as well as a skill set associated with it. Social Science (History, Political Science, Sociology) develops critical thinking, analysis, reasoning, and expository writing skills. Humanities develop self-expression, communication skills, analytical skills, etc. Sciences and math develop rational and abstract thinking.
The point of a university is not to churn out people who can only think one way, but to expose students to various ways of thinking and writing and thus become better, more educated individuals. You may not need to remember the names of the rulers of the Ming dynasty in China, but being able to find out the information, sift through contradicting view points, and then use analysis to answer a critical thinking question about those rulers is a very, very useful skill, especially for those who plan to continue beyond the B.A./B.S.
2006-07-05 20:49:27 · answer #3 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That always bothered me too. Especially the physical education requirements.
I guess it is to make students more well-rounded.
But, in my opinion, If I'm the one paying the tuition, I should be able to decide just how well-rounded I'd like to be.
Sadly, if you want the degree you've got to play by their rules.
2006-07-02 15:00:47 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
More than half of all college graduates graduate with a degree different than the one they initially enrolled in. By exposing students to courses and program outside their field of study, they create opportunities for students to find subjects that really interest them.
2006-07-02 15:09:15 · answer #5 · answered by Jetgirly 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They are designed to make you a "well rounded" person, but in my opinion it's to give the college a "well rounded" bank account.
2006-07-02 15:04:21 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋