All Critical Studies courses require essay writing because nothing expresses thought more clearly than the written word. They select elective and required courses from four areas of the department. Sophomores take Literary Traditions. Students select a natural science or mathematics course and additional electives from the other three areas to complement work in their chosen disciplines or to satisfy individual interests. Art History courses teach students to approach and understand works of art in their cultural and historical context.
All courses emphasize research skills.
Social Sciences courses give students a working knowledge of the major disciplines and methods of inquiry in the social sciences. Students develop a sense of historical perspective and deepen their understanding of their own and other people s historical and cultural heritage. Writing, Film Criticism, and Literature courses teach students to discern the complex layers of feelings, ideas, meanings, and historical forces manifest in verbal or cinematic art. Students read and analyze literary works and films to gain insight into and appreciation of the works, and to explore new ways of thinking about their own creative work. Natural Science and Mathematics courses cover the contexts, concepts, and methods of science and mathematics, and foster the ability to form critical judgments using scientific principles.