GEM is a partnership between the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) and civilian academic institutions. The goal is to offer general education courses to meet CCAF Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree requirements. GEM allows an Airman to complete all general education requirements at one institution via online distance coursework for faster degree completion.
Black Hills State University has partnered with CCAF to offer the following general education courses to fulfill the general education requirements for the AAS. Choose one course from each requirement area below.
Introduces the study of speech fundamentals and critical thinking through frequent public speaking practice, including setting, purpose, audience, and subject. Three semester hours
Practice in the skills, research, and documentation needed for the effective academic writing. Analysis of a variety of academic and non-academic texts, rhetorical structures, critical thinking, and audience will be included. Three semester hours
Study of and practice in writing persuasive prose, with the aim to improve writing skills in all disciplines. PreRequisite: ENGL 101 or UHON 110. Three semester hours.
This course includes the basic properties of real numbers. Topics generally include linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations, systems of equations, polynomials and factoring, rational expressions and equations, radical expressions and equations, and an introduction to functions. Three semester hours.
In this course, students will work with authentic problems to develop logical, critical thinking, and mathematical skills. The student will build a cultural appreciation for the relevant and meaningful role that mathematics plays in many areas of life. Topics may include finance, introduction to probability and statistics, and linear and exponential models, among others. Three semester hours.
This course includes a study of the theory and application of functions including function notation, graphs, inverses, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and other functions. May also include additional topics such as sequences, series, the binomial theorem, linear systems, matrices, or complex numbers. Three semester hours.
Topics include: trigonometric functions, equations, and identities; inverse trigonometric functions; exponential and logarithmic functions, and applications of these functions. Three semester hours.
The study of limits, continuity, derivatives, applications of the derivative, antiderivatives, the definite and indefinite integral, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. Four semester hours.
A continuation of the study of calculus, including the study of sequences, series, polar coordinates, parametric equations, techniques of integration, applications of integration, indeterminate forms, and improper integrals. Prerequisite: MATH 123. Four semester hours.
A continuation of the study of calculus including an introduction to vectors, vector calculus, partial derivatives, and multiple integrals. Prerequisite: MATH 125. Four semester hours.
A study of descriptive statistics including graphs, measures of central tendency and variability and an introduction to probability theory, sampling and techniques of statistical inference with an emphasis on statistical applications. Prerequisite: MATH 103, 104, 114, 115, 120, 121, or 123. Three semester hours
Unique Course - A survey of the social, cultural, political, and economic history of the Indian peoples of North America from time immemorial to the end of the nineteenth century. Cross-listed: (Also offered as HIST 257) Three semester hours.
Principles of microeconomics studies basic economic concepts as they relate to consumer, worker, and business decisions. Emphasis is given to satisfaction maximizing behavior by individuals and profit maximization by firms. Market structures are thoroughly analyzed regarding their effect on price, output, and competitiveness. Three semester hours.
Principles of macroeconomics considers the economy as a whole, how its sectors interact, and how monetary and fiscal policy can influence output, inflation, interest rates, unemployment, poverty, debt, and other factors. Three semester hours.
A survey of the Earth from a broad global framework through the differentiation of the world in terms of both natural and human environmental features and characteristics on a regional basis. Three semester hours.
Surveys the background and development of the United States from its colonial origins to the Civil War and Reconstruction. Three semester hours.
Surveys development of the United States since the Civil War and Reconstruction. Three semester hours.
A study of the basic principles of the American system of government with emphasis on problems relating to governmental structure and policies. Three semester hours.
This course is an introduction survey of the field of psychology with consideration of the biological bases of behavior, sensory and perceptual processes, learning and memory, human growth and development, social behavior and normal and abnormal behavior. Three semester hours.
Comprehensive study of society, with analysis of group life, and other forces shaping human behavior. Three semester hours.
A study of present-day problems in contemporary societies, such as racism, sexism, ageism, alcoholism, drug addiction, physical and mental health, war and environmental issues - their significance and current policies and action. Three semester hours.
Explores the nature of art in various aesthetic, formal, and psychological dimensions, involving analysis of art objects for understanding, enjoyment, and life enhancement. Three semester hours.
Common Course Number & Description Readings in fiction, drama, and poetry to acquaint students with literature and aesthetic form. Prerequisite: ENGL 101. Three semester hours
Study of literature by and about women. Course materials may range from early times to the present and may also include non-American literature.
This interdisciplinary course introduces students to humanistic knowledge, inquiry, and values by focusing on connections among humanities disciplines (such as art, languages, literature, music, philosophy, and religion).
A non-technical discussion designed to increase the enjoyment and appreciation of music. Fulfills the music requirement in the general education program. Three semester hours.
Introduces competing philosophical views of reality, perception, learning, and values, emphasizing their relevance to the contemporary world. Three semester hours.
Introduces the fundamental elements of Spanish sentence structure and vocabulary. Promotes speaking, listening and writing within a cultural context. Class work may be supplemented with required aural/oral practice outside of class.
Art and architecture in the historical and contextual development of the role of visual arts including crafts, drawing, painting, sculptures and architecture, in the historical and cultural development of world civilizations from prehistory through the 14th century.
Examines the major currents and components of ethical theory from classical times to the present, investigating problems arising from specific theories, as well as critically analyzing the validity of these theories for current ethical concerns.
Introductory course designed to enhance the student’s enjoyment and understanding of the theatrical experience. Play readings, films, and demonstrations acquaint the students with the history and techniques of the theatrical art.
At BHSU, we are committed to supporting those who have served our country. If you are a member of the military community, you may be eligible for tuition assistance for active military tuition reduction. When you apply to Black Hills State University, you WILL NOT be charged an admissions fee, as you will be considered a non-degree seeking student since you will just be taking general education courses.
Active military members can apply for a reduced military rate for undergraduate classes. This will lower your tuition to $250 per credit hour. If you apply for the reduced tuition rate and Air Force and Space Force TA (see below) you would cover the cost of your tuition. To apply for this discounted rate, please email Carol Racanelli at Carol.Racanelli@BHSU.edu to have her send you the form. You can either drop off the completed form at the Rushmore Center, RM 2401 and show your ID to her, or you can email the completed form, and include your most recent LES with the application.
You will need to contact your education service officer to determine your eligibility. You will also need to get authorization from your command before you can apply. Once you are deemed eligible, you can then register for classes. To learn more information about Air Force and Space Force TA, click here. For detailed step-by-step instructions, click here. Before you can access the online TA request process, you must create a user name and password on the AFVEC. This can be done through the Air Force Portal.
If you need help with academics or just getting information about our school resources please reach out to our Student Success center.
The GI Bill® is administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Armed Forces offer Airmen and Guardians several tuition assistance programs for college courses taken during off-duty hours. Apply for Benefits