Donaghey Scholars Core Curriculum

Scholars have their own curriculum which virtually replaces UALR's general education core. In effect, Scholars are in a small college of their own.

Scholars take the Scholars core with other Scholars in small, seminar style classes which emphasize the reading of primary texts, vigorous discussion, and frequent writing. These core courses are interdisciplinary, a focus which puts our honors program among those at the forefront of honors education nationally.

Enrollment in Scholars core courses is limited to Donaghey Scholars, so the class size is kept relatively small.

Scholars Colloquium I and II (SCHL 1101, 1102)

An orientation to the program and to UALR, this course features discussion of themes arising in other courses, projects to increase students' understanding of themselves and the educational process, and presentations by campus officials and guest lecturers. Students also are required to do both a service and shadowing project.

Rhetoric and Communication I and II (SCHL 1300, 1301)

This course seeks to improve the student's ability to examine ideas and facts critically and to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Students will examine how powerfully language can shape both individual and social psyches.

Science and Society I and II (SCHL 1320, 1321)

This course deals with science both as a mode of thought and as a method of inquiry as it focuses on the impact of scientific thought and scientific technology on human culture.

History of Ideas I, II, and III (SCHL 2300, 2301, 3300)

This three semester course studies the development of civilization and the progression of human ideas from earliest times to the present. The general approach is critical and historical with emphasis on literature, philosophy, and religion. The primary focus shifts each semester from early Western thought, to later Western thought, and, finally, to non-Western thought.

The Individual and Society I and II (SCHL 2310, 2311)

This course emphasizes cultural comparisons through an overview of the relationship between individuals and their societies in both Western and non-Western cultures. The course draws on insights from anthropology, economics, political science, psychology, and sociology.

The Individual and the Creative Arts I and II (SCHL 3310, 3311)

This course examines the role of artistic endeavors in enriching human life. The course utilizes material from art, architecture, music, dance, literature, and theater. Students are required to attend and discuss a number of concerts, plays, and exhibits.

Other Course Requirements

In addition to the Scholars core courses, Scholars also take three of the university’s core requirements: College Math or College Algebra, American History or American National Government, and any lab science course.

Donaghey Scholars also enroll in foreign language courses until they pass an oral proficiency exam, a test which is usually administered after students study abroad.

A seminar course outside the Scholar’s major field of study is also required, as is the completion of a final project under the supervision of three faculty advisors.