Bellevue University Requires Civics Coursework for Students

The Kirkpatrick Signature Series mandates three civics classes for all undergraduate students at the university.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Bellevue University Requires Civics Coursework for Students

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Should universities require all undergraduate students to complete a course in U.S. civics education?

Since the 1996-1997 academic year, Bellevue University has required all undergraduate students to complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series. This civics-focused program ensures students receive a solid grounding in civics education through three required classes.

Why it matters

The initiative aims to provide a standardized foundation in civic responsibility, bridging theoretical learning with practical application. By requiring community service projects, the university encourages students to engage directly with their local organizations or churches.

The Kirkpatrick Signature Series has graduated over 27,000 students since 1996, with participants currently representing all 50 U.S. states and 76 countries. More than 30 faculty members have taught the coursework, which is available online.

The players

Bellevue University

This institution is a private university located in Bellevue, Nebraska, that enrolls approximately 18,000 undergraduate students.

Kirkpatrick Charitable Trust

This foundation provides philanthropic support and selected Bellevue University to host the specific civics-focused educational initiative.

The details

Students complete the three-class series alongside a hands-on community service project that connects to their personal or professional lives. The initiative was funded by the Kirkpatrick Charitable Trust to ensure a comprehensive civic foundation for a diverse student body.

The Kirkpatrick Signature Series course began in the 1996-1997 academic year.
Over 27,000 students have completed the course over the last 30 years.

Political Context

The program reflects a growing trend in higher education to integrate active civic participation into degree requirements. Critics often argue that mandatory service and specific civics sequences may infringe upon academic freedom or overreach into students' personal lives.

Undergraduate students at Bellevue University must incorporate a community service project into their academic schedule to satisfy graduation requirements. This curriculum ensures that all students, regardless of their major, gain experience in local community involvement.

The takeaway

Mandatory civics programs prepare students to be more informed and active participants in their communities. Students can implement this in their own lives by seeking out service opportunities that align with their personal values and professional development.