The general education program at BYU-Idaho is called Foundations. These courses have been created with the goal of helping you build a strong base for your education here at BYU-Idaho and throughout your life. Foundation classes provide a focused approach, allowing you to delve deeper into specific aspects of the subject matter.

For example, instead of taking an introductory biology course, Foundations offers Understanding DNA as one course option. Focusing on DNA allows students to learn not only the basics of DNA science but explore the applications and impact DNA has in our lives. Less breadth and more depth allow you to cover more advanced topics not typically included in introductory courses. This includes principles of DNA fingerprinting, personal DNA diagnostics, cause and cures of cancer, and outcomes of genetic engineering. You will also learn analytical skills that help you evaluate scientific claims for their accuracy.

Next semester, or 10 years from now, you may not remember every detail of DNA structure but you will remember how to evaluate, find useful scientific resources, and solve complex problems. These skills will serve you well as you work towards your bachelor's degree and in life in general. This same experience will be true for all of the Foundation classes that you take.

All BYU-Idaho students complete the same Foundation requirements except for students pursuing an associate's degree in applied science (AAS). For details, see the catalog. Foundation classes are divided into five groups: Eternal Truths, Academic Fundamentals, Science, Cultural Awareness, and Connections.

Please note that some associate degrees, transfer credits, AP credits, and concurrent enrollment credits may cover some of the Foundation requirements. Please see Getting Started for details.

Foundations Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I am on an older catalog that required General Education. Am I required to take Foundations?

A: No, Foundations is only required for new freshmen and transfer students that started school Fall Semester 2008 or later. It is also required for students choosing to update their major to a 2008 catalog year or later. All other students may stay on the general education program and complete their degree as outlined in their declared catalog year as long as their degree is completed by the time the catalog expires.

Q: What if a General Education class that I need is no longer available?

A: Due to the discontinuation of the general education program some general education classes are no longer available. In these instances the following Foundation courses may be used unless another specific GE requirement is noted on your degree audit for your major. Paperwork may be required. Please see your Satellite Advising Center for details:

Q: I transferred to BYU-Idaho with an associate degree, but I am still required to take two Foundations courses, Family Foundations (FDREL 200) and Analytical Thinking and Moral Judgment (FDCNC 250). I thought my degree would satisfy all Foundation requirements. Can you explain why I need these two courses plus remaining religion credits?

A: Family Foundations and Analytical Thinking and Moral Judgment are two courses unique to our goal of developing disciple-leaders at BYU-Idaho. The learning opportunity in each of these courses will be a valuable part of the student experience and is required for everyone that attends BYU-Idaho. Fourteen credits of religion are required for bachelor-degree seeking students. Religion credits are adjusted based on how many credits you have transferred to BYU-Idaho. Please see the following link for a chart that shows how this works: http://www.byui.edu/RelEd/graduationreq.htm.

Q: My goal is to transfer to BYU. What classes will transfer?

A: We recommend that students desiring to transfer complete their associate degree before leaving. Transferring with your finished associate degree will make the transfer process smoother; however it isn't a complete guarantee. It is recommended that potential transfer students work with an academic advisor at BYU for the best help and guidance. BYU transfer advisors can be reached at 801-422-2507 or transfer@byu.edu.

Q: I am a transfer student and have taken courses that could be counted in both the Foundations and Major requirements. Can I use the same course to satisfy both Foundations and Major requirements?

A: No. Transfer courses can be used to satisfy either Foundations or Major requirements, but not both.