This claim asserts that universities should require their students to take courses outside their major field of study. While I do feel that broadening students’ education can be a valuable part of a student’s education, I am unconvinced that it is necessary for all students.

First, in order to take courses outside their major field of study, a student must have the time and financial resources to do so, both of which can be difficult to obtain. An undergraduate student, for instance, may have to take three to six courses per semester, depending on the course of study. If they have a job in addition to school and a family, then that student would not have the time to complete homework assignments and study for those courses. It would only be possible, at best, to squeeze in a class or two. The same can be said for a graduate student who typically has more hours each week to devote to coursework.

Furthermore, finances are a significant issue. A student who takes classes outside of their field will be required to pay those fees out-of-pocket. This can add up, especially if the student has committed to an expensive, four-year degree program. Without the necessary time or money, students who take courses outside of their major field of study are not likely to benefit from them.

Second, taking courses outside one’s field of study can consume a student’s intellectual energy. Students devote most of their time to coursework, as it is required for graduation. They may also have club and work obligations that require them to attend meetings or perform their duties. Even if a student has the time and money available to take classes outside their major field of study, they may not have the time or energy to devote to that coursework. As a result, the student’s intellectual energy may be diverted to that coursework and away from coursework related to their major field. Students who take courses outside of their field of study may have difficulty maintaining good grades or even completing that coursework if they do not have time to devote to it. This could affect the student’s chances of graduating.

Finally, taking courses outside one’s field of study can result in the student choosing the wrong major. Many colleges and universities offer guaranteed majors that students must take to receive their diplomas. For example, some schools require students to take a foreign language, and some need students to take certain core classes. If a student takes courses outside of their major field of study, they may be drawn to majors that are not required or less demanding, such as music. This could result in the student not receiving a degree in their desired field.

While broadening one’s education can be considered a valuable part of a student’s education, some factors must be considered before requiring all students to take courses outside their field of study.