Curriculum

In the first year, students take courses fulfilling basic skills like public speaking, writing and computer literacy to ensure strong learning outcomes. Theology and a philosophy courses fulfill general education requirements. Two semesters of biology and one of psychology are applicable to a number of degree requirements. An elective in humanities, a general elective and freshman seminar round out the first year course schedule.

Students choose electives for subjects in which they might consider majoring. This allows students to try out different departments without committing to a major. Each of these courses counts toward graduation requirements no matter what final degree choice is made.

Click here to see the curriculum.

Internships

Once they choose a major, students may take internships for credit in all programs. In most majors, some kind of internship or other professional experience is required.

Nursing majors, for example, can intern in a wide range of settings including hospitals, clinics, schools and community agencies. Likewise, education majors have numerous choices for internships, including private and public schools.

Students pursuing degrees in the helping professions need not wait until they earn their degrees to start making a difference in the community. Those who begin in the common curriculum will have significant opportunities to make a difference, no matter which major they ultimately choose.

Community-based Learning

PCPS has a formalized program for academic community-based learning in which community service is linked to academic study. Students work with organizations throughout the community and develop projects relating to their coursework.

Community programs sponsored by the University supply opportunities for service as well. For example, The Leahy Community Health and Family Center features a Clinic for the Uninsured, a student-run food pantry the Peacemakers afterschool program for children ages 9 to 13, and the University of Success for high school students preparing to transition to college.  

Cultural immersion trips enable students to visit other areas of the world to learn about the distinctive challenges there and help others by putting their skill and compassion to work. Occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) students, for example, travel to the Navajo Nation near Window Rock, Arizona. They work with students with disabilities and their teachers at the St. Michaels Association for Special Education School.

Another OT and PT program takes students and faculty to Guyana, where they help individuals who suffer from Hansen’s disease, also known as leprosy. Read More.