Final answer:
Composition and Rhetoric courses are essential for students to improve their writing and critical thinking skills, which are crucial for academic and professional success.
Step-by-step explanation:
Composition and Rhetoric is a fundamental requirement for most students because it is integral to developing writing and critical thinking skills. These skills are essential not just in academic settings but are also highly valued in various professional fields, from business to technology. Learning outcomes of studying composition and rhetoric include reflecting on the composition process, which in turn affects your writing, and using composition to engage in learning, communicate effectively, and develop critical thinking within various rhetorical contexts.
For students who do not learn about improved research writing and critical thinking skills, several things are at stake. They may miss out on the ability to analyze texts critically, articulate their thoughts coherently, and understand the nuances of language and persuasion. This can affect their ability to perform well across multiple disciplines, which might even impact their professional success. The correct answer to the question in focus is 'c. Improves writing and critical thinking'.