Three signature courses anchor the Mercy Core experience and connect learning to the mission of the Sisters of Mercy.

CORE 101: Leading with Mercy introduces students to Mercy values and the principles of leadership grounded in compassion and justice.

CORE 199: Theology and the Critical Concerns explores faith, ethics, and the global issues emphasized by the Sisters of Mercy.

CORE 400: Women of Impact challenges students to reflect on their education and how they will use their leadership to influence their professions and communities.

Theology (3 Credits)

Theology courses are an opportunity to see how the Christian tradition, particularly Catholicism, tries to tackle the “big questions” of human life, so that students can reflect on their own deeply held values and sense of purpose. Theology courses also encourage students to observe how religion in general, and Christianity in particular, influences (and is influenced by) the wider world. Only Theology courses from a Catholic university meet the Theology requirement.

Philosophical Ethics (3 Credits)

Ethics courses approved for this requirement introduce students to, or build upon, foundational philosophical ethical theory and method, integrating those theories with particular applied ethical issues. Only philosophy courses can meet the Philosophical Ethics requirement. 

The Mercy Core also develops the academic skills every student needs for success in college and beyond. Courses build abilities in areas such as writing, critical thinking, scientific reasoning, global citizenship, and understanding human behavior and social systems.

Academic Writing & Information Literacy (6 Credits)

Students learn and apply the writing process—brainstorming, drafting, revising, and editing—while developing information literacy skills such as finding, evaluating, and citing sources. Courses include multiple writing assignments that build in length and complexity, with opportunities for revision and improvement.

Creative Thinking & Expression (3 Credits)

Students develop creativity through imagination, experimentation, and artistic expression. Courses engage students in creating, sharing, and refining work while using creative thinking to explore and respond to complex ideas and challenges.

Critical Reading & Analysis (6 Credits)

Students learn strategies for reading, interpreting, analyzing, and evaluating texts. Courses emphasize understanding a text’s purpose, argument, and context while encouraging students to question both the content and their own perspectives.

Global Citizenship (3 Credits)

Students explore global issues and power structures that shape societies. Courses examine systemic inequities and the experiences of marginalized populations, with particular attention to the experiences of women.

Quantitative Reasoning (3 Credits)

Students develop mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Courses introduce core mathematical principles and teach students how to apply them effectively in both familiar and new situations.

Scientific Thinking (4 Credits)

Students learn to apply scientific principles, evidence, and methods to analyze data and solve complex problems. Courses include laboratory experiences and instruction in scientific communication and analysis.

Understanding Human Behavior & Social Systems (3 Credits)

Students explore how social institutions, cultures, and interactions influence human behavior. Courses introduce social science theories and methods, using historical and contemporary data to better understand individuals and societies.