The Loyola Curriculum and Course Planning

As a liberal arts university in the Jesuit tradition, Loyola prides itself on providing a rich, deep core curriculum for its students. Many majors require registration in specific core courses which satisfy both the core curriculum and major requirements. All students must complete at least 38 three- or four-credit courses and 120 credits to earn an undergraduate degree from Loyola. Each student’s curriculum is comprised of core, major, and elective courses.

Liberal Education in the Jesuit Tradition

Loyola is committed to the Jesuit ideals of academic excellence, the importance of the liberal arts, and the education of the whole person. The University emphasizes the formative potential of a liberal arts education and its impact on holistic growth.

Loyola Core Curriculum

It is important that you familiarize yourself with the core requirements.

The Major

To see which courses are required for each major, students may view the academic worksheets specific to each class year. Academic worksheets for the Class of 2029 will be available in late August/early September 2025. Students in this class year should refer to the worksheets for the Class of 2028 as a guide in the meantime.

The Electives

Electives are courses that are taken to complete the 38 course graduation requirement but are not courses required in the core or major.

The Honors Program

Students must apply separately to the Honors Program. Honors students fulfill their core curriculum through the Honors Program.