"Basically they are courses that students may choose to take for credit towards their intended degree but aren't required." I'm not sure where this text was found, but it sounds like a description of an "elective class". The text is grammatically incorrect, also, I'm afraid; so first, let's state it correctly: "Basically, they are courses which a student may choose to take for credit towards his/her intended degree, but which aren't required." Let's break it down into pieces: 1. Basically This means it is not a technical definition, but rather a quick, informal one. 2. they elective classes or "electives" 3. are courses They are college classes like any other class. 4. which a student may choose These classes ("electives") are not part of your major course of study. You can pick whatever you want to do for an "elective". 5. to take Here, "to take" means to "join or participate in" the class. 6. for credit Even though you choose these classes, you will still earn points toward graduating. If the class is 3 hours a week, you will earn 3 credits toward graduation. 7. toward The credits will "be counted" or "add together with" the credits you are earning in all your other classes. 8. his/her intended degree Major course of study. 9. but which aren't required. Electives are "extra" classes that do not teach core skills involved with your major. If your major is Biology, an elective might be Creative Writing or Fencing. These classes teach nothing about Biology. They are extra classes that you CAN take, for enrichment, but that is your choice. Most majors require a student to choose three or four electives. You need the credits, but it is your choice what class to take. If your major requires 180 credits to graduate, required courses may only make up 168 credits. So you will need to choose four classes (x3 credits each) to reach 180 credits. These will be your "electives".