John Jay students take a series of courses to learn essential skills and knowledge for success as individuals, as professionals, and as advocates for justice in their community and the wider world.
In addition to your major and electives, every John Jay student takes a series of courses in the college’s general education program. These courses are designed to guide you through learning the foundational skills and knowledge you need to succeed in college, in your professional life, and as an engaged individual working to create a more just community and world.
Critical Reasoning
- 81% of employers value Critical thinking and analytic reasoning
- 56% of employers value Quantitative reasoning
Communication
- 85% of employers value Oral communication
- 82% of employers value Written communication
- 83% of employers value Teamwork skills in diverse groups
Research and Information Literacy
- 68% of employers value Information literacy
- 60% of employers value Technological skills
Creativity and Problem Solving
- 70% of employers value Complex problem solving
- 65% of employers value Innovation and creativity
Ethical practice in a Diverse Society
- 96% of employers value Problem solving in diverse settings
- 81% of employers value Ethical judgment and decision making
Civic Engagement and Global Citizenship
- 86% of employers value Civic knowledge, skills, and judgment
- 78% of employers value Intercultural skills and understanding of societies and cultures outside the US
Intellectual Maturity
- •80% of employers value the ability to Apply knowledge in real-world settings
At John Jay, you will have the opportunity to develop these skills while taking courses that explore justice in its many dimensions – criminal, gender, social, racial, environmental, the science and data behind the pursuit of justice, struggles for justice around the world, their historical context, and the expression of justice in the arts and humanities. At the center of the curriculum is the John Jay Justice Core, which allow you to engage with justice topics that matter to you while learning the skills you need to become an effective advocate for justice. For a list of general education requirements and how to meet them, visit our general education advising page.
Note for Transfer students: If you have completed courses that met general education requirements at another college, they may count toward John Jay’s requirements. For more information, see our transfer policy page, or set up an appointment with an academic advisor.