Humanities and Cultural Studies (BA)

The Humanities and Cultural Studies major offers students the opportunity to study the meaning of the human condition through interdisciplinary course work. The course of study brings together such disciplines as art, art history, history, literature, music, philosophy, and religion to help the student examine the fundamental questions that have shaped the human community, such as: What are truth and beauty? What are the limits of science and technology? How do we live a responsible life? What makes us more fully human? Competence in critical analysis, written and spoken discourse, and a love of learning are hallmarks of a student completing this major.

The major has a practical outcome: to discover what is most valued in life and make appropriate decisions for one's future. The curriculum has special features to prepare students for success in the workplace and civic life. Internships or work-related projects are integral to the course work. Career plans are part and parcel of the student's curriculum and the formal advising process. Graduates in Humanities and Cultural Studies are prepared for graduate school and choose careers that include law, public service, non-profit management, arts administration, journalism, ministry, teaching, and business.

The Foundational courses provide the student with a broad base of knowledge primarily in the traditions of the West. Concentration Tracks (chosen in consultation with their designated advisor) offer in-depth work in a specific academic discipline or interdisciplinary field. Interdisciplinary Concentration Tracks currently available are: Area Studies, Environment and Culture, Film and Culture Studies, Latin American Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies in Spirituality, and Women and Gender Studies. Discipline-based Concentration Tracks include: Art, Art History, Communications, Literature, History, Humanistic Social Science, Music, Philosophy and Religion: Cross Cultural Analyses, and Writing. Students may individualize a track with the approval of the Chair of the department. Students are encouraged to take courses in non-Western traditions within their Concentration.

Global and national realities demand that the Humanities and Cultural Studies majors acquire the ability to relate to multiple worldviews and diverse cultural experiences. To this end, international and cross-cultural study is recommended along with appropriate international language competence. The University provides such opportunities through the Honors Program and International Student Services.

The senior project is the culmination of the Humanities and Cultural Studies Major. The project is prepared under faculty guidance and offers the opportunity of further in-depth study of an interdisciplinary topic of special interest to the student.

Accelerated Bachelor and Master’s of Arts in Humanities

Students interested in a five-year accelerated program leading to both a BA and MA in Humanities should contact the Program Director of the Graduate Humanities program.