Definition of gateway, cornerstone and capstone units – Faculty of Arts

Within each Arts major there are specific units that must be completed. These are called gateway, cornerstone and capstone units. Completing these units provides students with a structured progression through the course of a major, ensuring that they cover what is essential to that particular discipline and facilitating the achievement of different milestones at first, second and third-year level.

Students should check the individual discipline requirements in the Arts areas of study section of the Handbook to determine which gateway, cornerstone and capstone units they need to complete.

Gateway unit

A gateway unit is a first-year level unit that introduces you to the area of study. Most areas of study have two gateway units that must be completed.

Cornerstone unit

A cornerstone unit is a second-year level unit that is designed in a way that allows you to demonstrate that you have a solid understanding of the area of study. Most areas of study have one or two cornerstone units that must be completed.

Capstone unit

A capstone unit is a third-year level unit that allows you to demonstrate what you have learnt and the skills that you have acquired throughout the study of your major. Therefore, it might consist of a research project or an industry internship. Most areas of study have one or two capstone units that must be completed.

NOTE: Students completing a minor in an Arts area of study only need to complete the gateway units. To make up the 24-point requirement of a minor, students choose the remaining units from the list of electives.