Structured Liberal Education
Quotes
Study seems to be liked because of itself alone,
since it has no result beyond having been studied. But from the virtues concerned with action, we try to a
greater or lesser extent to gain something beyond the action itself.
--Aristotle, Ethics, Book X
Program Overview
Structured Liberal Eduction (SLE) is among Stanford’s longest-running programs designed especially for freshmen. Since 1974 it has served as the liberal arts college within the research university: an integrated program in humanities classics (literature, philosophy, and the arts) and writing instruction in which the 90 students live together in the three houses of East Florence Moore Hall. All components of the course take place in the residence: lectures, discussion sections, film screenings, and special events (SLE Salons). The thrice-weekly lectures by distinguished humanities faculty from across the University introduce students to scores of scholars with whom they might like to do further study in sophomore through senior year.
For Current Students
SLE students should use the Current Syllabus for the most up-to-date information on the course. Some course materials will also be available on Coursework.
For SLE Alumni
Ask any of the sophomores, juniors, or seniors who have done SLE how it laid a foundation for their undergraduate years, and they are likely to sing the program’s praises. Many say they formed friendships in SLE that endured long after they scattered to their majors in engineering, sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Many continue their association with SLE by attending special alumni events or by serving as writing tutors for current students.