Humanities and Fine Arts

The humanities—languages, communication, philosophy, and religion—explore those enduring values of our heritage that have sustained and enriched human life in times of crisis and doubt, prosperity and peace. Firmly rooted in human experience, the humanities examine, define, and relate that experience to the contemporary age. Through knowledge of literature, languages, philosophy, and religion; through a critical awareness of conflicting values; and through a continuing pursuit of understanding, the humanities involve the individual in the varied experiences of life. Course work in the humanities encourages students to express their individual ideas and personalities and to determine how they may succeed creatively in their chosen careers.

The fine arts—art, dance, music, and theatre—emphasize the role of creativity in our lives. Course work in these disciplines gives students the opportunity to explore the varied ways in which individuals express themselves artistically. Courses offer historical and theoretical perspectives, as well as practice in artistic techniques and training in particular disciplines, giving students an appreciation of aesthetics.

The Division of Humanities and Fine Arts offers majors in Art and Design (with an optional concentration in digital graphic design), English (with optional concentrations in writing/ communications or creative writing), Communication Studies, American Sign Language, and American Sign Language-English Interpreting.

Minor programs are offered in creative writing, English, creative arts, communication studies, digital design, American Sign Language, and Spanish and area studies.