General Studies (GNST)

GNST 001 - Strategies for Academic and Personal Success Credits 0

Instruction in success strategies for navigating the rigors of college and life beyond. Particular attention is given to time management, personal self-awareness, strengths based living/learning, moderation, critical thinking, test-taking and holistic living. Grade Mode: C.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.
Course Fee: $60.

GNST 002 - Above and Beyond Credits 0

College study skill development, organizational and academic accountability, for selected/approved participants through the undergraduate admissions process. Grade Mode: C.
Prerequisite(s): Course eligibility via selection.
Restriction(s): Must be Freshman Class; and Undergraduate Level.

GNST 003 - LEAD Scholars Program Credits 0

This course is a 2-semester required course for students in the LEAD Scholars Program. The course guides the students in constructing a Biblical foundation for diversity and analyzing cultural worldviews. Grade Mode: C.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.
Repeat Limit (after first attempt): 1.

GNST 004 - Gospel Choir Credits 0

This multicultural experience focuses on the training in, and performance of, all categories of Gospel music. Grade Mode: C.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.

GNST 101 - Introduction to Career Planning Credits 1-2

This course will introduce students to the essential components in their career development. Students will have opportunity to identify their interests, skills and personality traits related to the world of work. Development of a resume, introduction to career and industry information and create an action plan to meet career goals are objectives of this class. Open to all students. Grade Mode: A.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.
Course Fee: $35.

GNST 102 - First Year Seminar: The Biola Experience Credit 1

FYS: The Biola Experience is designed to welcome and introduce all incoming undergraduate students to the academic community, core values, and unique aspects of Biola's biblically centered, liberal arts education. This course is linked to the student's chosen major or a disciplinary theme for students exploring majors. Core Curriculum: Approved for Core - FYS/Biola Experience. Note(s): Required of all students in traditional undergraduate programs (see program descriptions for requirements of Biola's online bachelor's programs); requirement waived for transfer students who enrolled prior to Summer 2022 with 12 or more credits and completed coursework at Biola. Grade Mode: A.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.

GNST 106 - Portfolio Development for Prior Learning Assessment Credit 1

This course will teach students how to identify, reflect upon, and articulate life learning experiences. Adult learning theories will be discussed. Students will compile a portfolio with narratives and supplemental documents for the purpose of earning credit through prior learning assessment (PLA). Students will be guided through the preparation and compilation of all components required for the evaluation of a PLA portfolio. After completion of this course, students may choose to have their portfolio submitted for review by expert faculty assessor(s) who will determine if the student's learning meets college-level criteria. Grade Mode: A, C.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.

GNST 140 - Leadership Practicum I Credits 1-3

Provides students with the opportunity to learn, exercise and refine skills which will facilitate personal growth and increase their ability to solve problems as a member of the Leadership Community. Student should be enabled to reach higher levels of self-understanding and deeper insights into dynamics which enhance and hinder interpersonal relationships. Note(s): May not be used to substitute for a Core Curriculum requirement; may not be counted toward any major; may be taken multiple times for credit with different content. Grade Mode: A.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.
Repeat Limit (after first attempt): 10.

GNST 451 - Leadership Practicum II Credits 1-3

Directed practical experience in leadership communication for students involved in Residence Life, Spiritual Life, Christian Formation and Ministry, Student Orientation Service, Student Government Association, the Student Missionary Union, and Commuter Life. Note(s): May not be used to substitute for a Core Curriculum requirement; may not be counted toward any major. Grade Mode: A.
Restriction(s): Must be Undergraduate Level.