A General Education FAQ
Q. How do I meet General Education requirements?
A. Students consult with their academic advisors to select courses from three skills areas and four content areas that total at least 40 credit hours (at least 10 for skills courses and at least 30 for content area courses). General Education courses are offered by many different departments on a wide array of topics.
Q. At what point during my college career should I take General Education classes?
A. General Education classes are open to students at all levels of study, so a considerable amount of flexibility is possible. 
Think of General Education courses as a foundation. The specific areas of interest you pursue once you declare a major or a minor field of study can be built upon the skills and content you have learned through General Education. After you have declared a major, General Education courses can also complement courses in your major and/or minor and provide an interdisciplinary context for them. General Education helps you discover directions and set goals. It also helps you to see how your interests fit into a bigger picture.
A good tip regarding the skills courses: take these courses early! The knowledge and abilities you gain in those courses are the tools that will help you succeed later in content courses, both in General Education and in your major, as well as in your life after college.
Q. How do I find out which courses count for General Education?
A. Details about General Education requirements, including a complete listing of approved courses, are in the front of the UNC Catalog, in the “General Information” section. The specific General Education courses offered in any given semester will be published in the Schedule of Classes. An open course list is also available on line.
Q. If I transfer from another college, can previous work count as General Education credit at UNC?
A. Yes. Many courses completed at accredited institutions will transfer to UNC and meet skills or content requirements in General Education. You and your academic advisor will be provided with a transfer credit report after you are admitted.
Q. Does completion of studies at a two-year community college meet General Education requirements?
A. In many cases, yes. Students transferring to UNC with an AA degree have virtually satisfied the requirements for General Education.
