Complex Problem Exploration Courses

To produce graduates capable of solving complex problems as part of diverse teams, Goucher has created Complex Problem Exploration courses. These courses are interdisciplinary, center around a contemporary issue, and require students to work in sustained collaborations in a student-directed research or creative project. These courses build on Goucher’s model for teaching and learning which revolves around twelve academic centers. Centers are responsible for creating courses that allow students a path of exploration by choosing among courses that allow the study off specific ideas, values, or problems using different methods and approaches. Between their second semester at Goucher and the end of their junior year, students will take two Complex Problem Exploration (CPE) courses in two different areas (areas outlined below). Students are limited to one CPE course per semester.

Transfer Students and Transfer Courses:

1. Students who have earned an Associate’s Degree are exempt from the CPE requirement.
2. Students transferring to Goucher without an Associate’s Degree but with at least 30 credits will complete one CPE course.
3. Students matriculating with less than 30 credits will complete two CPE courses.
4. After matriculating at Goucher, students must complete all remaining CPE courses at Goucher College.

CPE Areas and their associated Academic Centers: