Its emphasis on primary texts encourages open discussion, fosters the development of essential thinking skills, and creates an appreciation of the great ideas that have shaped civilization. Writing, speaking, and critical thinking are well-defined objectives of the humanities seminar. Another exciting feature of the program is the Honors Lecture series which is offered in Junior year. Each academic year, the series focuses on a different specific topic such as the environment, the nature of work, and immigration. Renowned speakers address the Iona community on a broad range of themes related to this year's topic.
Students meet in small groups to discuss each lecture with a faculty facilitator.
The culmination of the program is the completion of an independent research project in Senior year, undertaken with a faculty mentor. While challenging students to formulate and defend a research thesis, this year of intensive scholarly endeavor is an excellent prelude to the rigors of graduate study.