Bluffton Blueprint
From changing careers to moving across the country, the Bluffton Blueprint provides a framework for the challenges that come with life.
Life is complicated. You’re likely balancing academics, athletics, extra-curriculars,
a part-time job and trying to get into the right college, let alone figuring out what
you want to do with the rest of your life!
The Bluffton Blueprint
The Bluffton Blueprint consists of four foundational courses which create a core of resiliency. Featuring both traditional classroom learning and experiential components, each course relates to one of Bluffton’s enduring values of Discovery, Community, Respect and Service.
Throughout your four years, you’ll be challenged to reflect on these values and themes which will help you discover yourself and your purpose in life.
Who am I?
As a first-year student, you’ll take Becoming a Scholar, a class that introduces students to college-level learning. The course features The Great Adventure, a fall break experience funded by university donors. Surrounding by vast natural beauty, you’ll reflect on who you are.
Who am I in Community?
In your sophomore year, you’ll take Learning in Community. Through hands-on community partnerships developed specifically for this class in nearby Lima, Ohio, you’ll get an early look at how you can make a difference in your field of study.
Who am I in the World?
A pivotal element of a Bluffton education, students often take their cross-cultural experience in their junior year of study. These explorations for growth and understanding allow students to explore a range of new locations from Appalachia to Israel/Palestine.
What Then Shall We Do?
Your Bluffton education comes full-circle during the final course in the Bluffton Blueprint, Christian Values in a Global Community. You will be challenged to answer the same question posed to John the Baptist while learning how you can serve the greater global community.
The Competencies
In addition to the the core classes, students are required to choose one course from several options to fulfill each of the following competencies. Some courses may satisfy requirements for both your major and the competencies. Together, the Bluffton Blueprint and the Competencies are a general education program grounded in the arts and sciences.
Cross cultural experiences
Whether traveling across the world, or across the country, by being immersed in new environments, you will experience diverse lifestyles, make new friendships and learn respect for other heritages all while meeting personal challenges that build character.