The purpose of the humanities minor is to provide the inquiring and curious student a flexible and interdisciplinary program to explore the creative works of human beings—literary, musical, philosophical, religious, theatrical, and artistic. The minor encourages a broad-based and overarching approach to the investigation of human accomplishment that expresses visions of life and values for living which offer both delight and wisdom.
For students majoring in the sciences or professions, the interdisciplinary humanities minor offers an enriching educational experience. For students already majoring in a single discipline among the humanities, this minor provides a broader awareness of the background of ideas and arts that shape our world. The introductory humanities courses also fulfill core curriculum requirements or provide elective credit.
In the humanities 19-hour minor, the student takes two 3-hour foundation courses, HUM 2301 and HUM 2302 . Under the director’s guidance, the student chooses to focus on one of three concentrations: Ancient, Medieval/Renaissance, or Modern. The student then selects one course from each of three categories within each concentration (Art and Architecture, Language and Culture, and History and Philosophy) as well as an additional course from a category of the student’s choice. The student’s experience culminates with completion of a one-hour capstone course which requires an essay that summarizes the ways in which the courses within the selected concentration relate. The final course of study must be approved by the director.
