Core Competencies

At CSU, we believe it is important that all graduates are prepared not just for their intended career but also for the ever-increasing possibility of changing careers. As our society and economy rapidly change, new opportunities arise, and our graduates should be prepared to take them. The CSU Core Competencies are built around both long-lasting skills and new skills of increasing importance. These skills track those regularly requested by employers and that are applicable to any career or occupation. They are also the skills that will support you in living a well-balanced and fulfilling life.

Every course in the core curriculum will provide you the opportunity to develop one or more core competencies. And upon completion of the CSU Core Curriculum, you will have had multiple opportunities to develop nearly every core competency.

The CSU Core Competencies are designed to align with the American Association of Colleges & University's Essential Learning Outcomes and the National Association of Colleges and Employers Career Ready Competencies.


  • Written Communication
  • Oral Communication
  • Quantitative Reasoning
  • Intercultural Knowledge & Competence
  • Collaboration
  • Critical Thinking
  • Information Literacy
  • Digital Literacy