Pathways | Students & Counselors | Office for Academic Affairs

CHART YOUR COURSE

Take ownership of your education by focusing some of your core curriculum courses on a particular thematic Pathway. A Pathway can augment your major or help you explore another field of study. You can complete a Pathway without adding any additional credit hours to your degree, and when you complete a Pathway, you will receive a credential that employers want to see.

Select a Pathway

Global Engagement

This Pathway helps students explore how cultures, communities and nations are connected—and how these connections shape the world we live in. You’ll study the relationships between local and global forces, learn how different cultures depend on and influence each other, and practice effective cross-cultural communication. Through discussions, debates and real-world examples, you’ll gain insight into the forces that shape cultural interactions. By the end, you’ll be able to think critically about global issues and engage meaningfully with people from a variety of backgrounds. This Pathway is ideal for students who want to better understand our interconnected world and develop skills to work across cultures.

To Complete: 9 credit hours

3 hours of social and behavioral science or history from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of fine arts, humanities, world language or literature from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of course work that is not in the General Education Core Curriculum.

View all courses in the Global Engagement Pathway

Executive Systems

This Pathway helps students explore the big forces that shape our world—like politics, economics, culture, history and the environment—and how they impact communities. Through classes that mix critical thinking with real-world problem-solving, learn how systems are built, how they change, and how they influence decisions and leadership. You’ll also study how people and groups work to address challenges, create positive change, and serve their communities. By the end, you’ll have the skills to think strategically, act ethically, and make a meaningful difference in public life. This Pathway is a great choice if you want to be prepared to lead responsibly in the world.

To Complete: 9 credit hours

3 hours of social and behavioral science or history from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of fine arts, humanities, world language or literature from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of course work that is not in the General Education Core Curriculum.

View all courses in the Executive Systems Pathway

Pathways coming in 2026!

Innovation and Creativity

The Innovation and Creativity Pathway helps students develop the skills to generate fresh ideas and bring them to life. You’ll explore creativity as it appears in every field—from the arts and media to science, business and technology—and learn how to turn innovative concepts into real-world solutions. Courses in this Pathway encourage you to experiment, collaborate and think outside the box while using tools and methods specific to your discipline. You’ll practice problem-solving through design thinking, storytelling, prototyping, and other creative strategies. By the end, you’ll be able to confidently create, refine and share innovative work that makes an impact.

To Complete: 9 credit hours

3 hours of social and behavioral science or history from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of fine arts, humanities, world language or literature from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of course work that is not in the General Education Core Curriculum.

Digital Literacy

The Digital Literacy and Practice Pathway helps students become confident, responsible and skilled users of digital technology. You’ll learn how to navigate and assess digital content, create meaningful and ethical digital projects, and understand the impact of technology on society. Courses in this Pathway combine hands-on experience with digital tools and platforms with thoughtful exploration of topics like data privacy, misinformation, accessibility and artificial intelligence. You’ll also develop collaboration and problem-solving skills using digital methods that are relevant to your field. By the end, you’ll be prepared to use technology thoughtfully and effectively in your academic, professional and everyday life.

To Complete: 9 credit hours

3 hours of social and behavioral science or history from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of fine arts, humanities, world language or literature from the core curriculum that’s a part of this Pathway.
3 hours of course work that is not in the General Education Core Curriculum.

FAQ

Is a Pathway required to complete my core curriculum?

No, Pathways are optional. You can complete your core general education courses without selecting a Pathway.

Who can complete a Pathway?

Any student who is enrolled at UA and is in the 2025 catalogue or later can enroll in a Pathway.

When will all the Pathways be available?

Global Engagement and Executive Systems rolled out in the fall semester of 2025. Innovation & Creativity and Digital Literacy will roll out in the fall semester of 2026.

What documentation is provided to students upon the successful completion of a Pathway?

Once completed, you will receive a credential on your academic transcript.

Can a class I take towards a Pathway requirement also count towards my Major or Minor?

Yes. If your Pathway classes also help you to complete a Major or Minor, that is great.

Can one class count towards multiple Pathways?

No. There is no “double dipping” between Pathways.

Can I take more than one Pathway?

Yes. You can take as many Pathways as your schedule will allow.

Can a transfer student do a Pathway?

Yes. If a course you completed at another university transfers to UA as an equivalent to a course that sits within a Pathway at UA, it will be considered the same as that course. You are also welcome to take a Pathway at any time during your enrollment at UA.

If I have completed all or some of the courses for a Pathway but have not declared a Pathway, can I do it after the fact?

Yes. You can declare a Pathway at any point during your time at UA. You do not have to declare a Pathway before you start taking the required courses.

Can I change Pathways?

Yes. The courses you took for one Pathway will likely not transfer over to another Pathway, but you are welcome to change and embark on a plan to take a different Pathway instead.

Can I use transfer credits or AP scores to complete a Pathway?

Yes. If your AP or other college credits transfer to to UA as an equivalent for a course is a part of a Pathway, then it will count.

How do I add/drop a Pathway?

You can add/drop a Pathway HERE. The link is also accessible through the Add/Drop Majors and Minors page on mybama.ua.edu.

How do I track my progress through a Pathway?

You will be able to see your progress through a Pathway in Degree Works.

How can I see what courses are in a Pathway?

View all courses in each of the Pathways below.

A PDF of the Pathways courses can also be viewed in Degree Works once you have added the Pathway.

Are there any chances to meet other students who are doing my Pathway?

Yes! Each semester there will be guest lectures and social events just for students in your Pathway. You will have a chance to meet people from across the university and hang out with cool faculty. All events and invitations will be posted here and sent to Pathways members via email.

Who do I contact if I have Pathway questions?

Please send all questions to Dr. Margaret Peacock, Director of Pathways in the Office for General Education, at mepeacock@ua.edu.