Beginning in their second semester, Honors students take a sequence of four courses in Western Culture. The courses survey the development of Western culture from the ancient world up to the present day.
Students read original documents in literature, philosophy, religious thought and social thought.
The classes combine some lecture and much discussion about the assigned readings for the day. By the end of the series, students have gained a broad perspective on the main values and themes of the Western tradition. A topical methods seminar is offered for students in the 1st semester of the freshman year. The Honors Composition courses are connected to this seminar and to the first Western Culture class. Honors students also take two courses in non-Western culture, which they select from offerings in history, anthropology, political science, art history, or other approved areas.