All SoC students complete 18 distribution units. Each major has specific distribution requirements.
| Distribution Areas | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Math/Science/ Technology | Individual and Social Behavior | Humanities and Fine Arts | Additional Distribution Courses | |
| Human Communication Sciences (HCS has additional specific distro requirements, see the major requirements for details) | 5 | 3 | 3 | 7 |
| Communication Studies | 3 | 3 | 3 | 9 |
| Performance Studies | 2 | 3 | 3 | 10 |
| Radio/Television/Film | 2 | 3 | 3 | 10 |
| Theatre | 2 | 3 | 3 | 10 |
| Dance | 2 | 3 | 3 | 10 |
At least one course in each distribution area must be taken at Northwestern University.
Students who entered Northwestern prior the 2026-2027 academic year:
Refer to Distribution Requirements Prior to the ’26–’27 Academic Year for information on which courses fulfill distribution requirements.
Students who entered Northwestern for the 2026-2027 academic year:
Refer to the University catalog page on SoC requirements to see which courses fulfill distribution requirements.