Basic Humanities professors are strongly interested in the progress of students, their problems and strengths. Teachers and students work together in class discussion and in small groups to learn how to read, think critically, and write effectively. Our students get to know one another and to learn to think on their own feet in preparation for life on and off the job. The period studies requirement provides an introduction to the methodologies of the separate disciplines and gives students a sense of the interrelationship among the diverse offerings of the separate departments. Unlike the interdisciplinary core courses which integrate course content, students are encouraged to discover these inter- relations for themselves.
Special emphasis is placed on critical thinking, logical expression of thought, and writing skills.
Five Courses by Contract to be chosen by the student with the advice of a committee of faculty members. These courses may be selected from the offerings of the three departments or from other humanities or university offerings. After an initial grouping in the content and methods of study of the Basic Humanities program, students have the opportunity to construct an advanced program of study with the advice of a committee of at least two faculty members, each from a different discipline involved in the program. A contracted program may be structured on the basis of chronological period, comparative cultures, traditional academic discipline, theme, or topic. Further information may be obtained from any faculty member in Classical Studies, Philosophy, or Religious Studies.