Drury University - Global Perspectives 21

Global Perspectives 21

The Global Perspectives 21 (GP21) program is an interdisciplinary curriculum "designed to prepare students for the 21st century by providing the breadth of understanding and skills needed in our rapidly changing global society." A practical benefit of the program is that all traditional Drury day students receive a minor in Global Studies for completing their general education requirements.†

Drury explains the program in this way: "The GP21 program is rooted in the liberal arts and thus helps develop the knowledge and skills associated with a bachelor’s degree. Students develop their reading, writing, and oral communication skills. They extend their abilities to think critically and creatively and to solve problems. They explore values and ethical issues in many ways and develop a deeper awareness of what divides and unites global cultures. This integrated program of study thus prepares students for meaningful and successful lives as persons and professionals."

†As of Spring 2012, students who were current freshmen through juniors were given the choice of whether to continue with GP21 and graduate with the minor, or to forgo it and take classes under the CORE curriculum instead. The CORE curriculum cuts down on certain subjects, such as science and research classes. Students entering Drury in Fall 2012 as freshmen are not eligible to complete the minor.