The disciplines taught in the college's 15 departments represent the core curricula of a modern university. In addition, the college offers 17 interdisciplinary degrees and minors. Through its programs, the college exposes students to principles of sound reasoning and judgment, while providing the skills for understanding and using information and technology. Faculty members in Arts and Sciences are committed to teaching that is grounded in scholarship and research. They strive to make their students rigorous thinkers and clear communicators, while encouraging in them an attitude of experimentation with new approaches and ideas.
Students are thus prepared for their role as informed citizens in a complex, global society.
Degree Requirements Students should consult the Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of Academic Policies for information concerning the literacy requirement, English composition requirement, writing-intensive requirement, core requirements, catalog requirements, residence requirements, and academic requirements. The general education portions of the bachelor's degree programs offer insights into a broad range of human thought and activity. General education prepares students to fulfill various roles in society by providing a foundation for continued learning and personal development. Through general education, students gain knowledge of the basic disciplines, skill in relating materials within the disciplines, and some understanding of human civilization as a whole. All courses fulfilling general education requirements are intended to combine these elements.