About the Institute of Arts and Humanities

Through 15 academic programs, the Institute of Arts and Humanities emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary thinking in addressing the needs of a complex world. Our programs train students to analyze and speak about the past, present and future with creativity and insight. 

The institute is part of the School of Arts and Humanities, with courses taught by experts from a range of fields, including literature, visual arts, history, music, sociology, theatre and dance and more. In addition to academic programs, the institute also houses several interdisciplinary centers and affiliate groups that produce innovative scholarship and public programs.

Why study the arts and humanities?

Human experience is dynamic, and the arts and humanities provide a unique lens to explore the entire record of our existence. Through the arts, our students learn how to think, communicate, imagine and transform into our fullest human potential. And in studying humanities, students ask fundamental questions about value, meaning and purpose. These versatile fields define our commitment to the present and open new vistas on uncharted futures.

An interdisciplinary skillset

The arts and humanities are foundational to nearly every field. Students learn how to think, with the ability to examine ideas critically and navigate ambiguity with confidence. They explore the core human questions that shape every society: how we communicate, interpret meaning, make ethical decisions, tell stories, understand history and imagine the future. These capacities underpin work across nearly every discipline.

Turning ideas into impact

Today’s employers increasingly value professionals who can connect ideas, work with diverse communities and approach problems from multiple angles — not just perform technical tasks. Arts and humanities students stand out by their ability to translate complex ideas, collaborate in diverse teams, lead with empathy, share compelling stories and effectively navigate ethical questions. Equipped with these transferable skills, our graduates pursue and succeed in a range of fields, from business and public policy to media and healthcare. 

An enduring knowledge base

In a world that is rapidly transforming, the arts and humanities offer an enduring knowledge base that ensures we continue to adapt successfully. Scholars in the humanities shed light on the historical context behind present-day challenges and provide an ethical lens to complex perspectives. In their myriad forms and expressions, the arts share the power of both transformation and permanence, deepening understanding and human connection while providing a forum for engaging pressing issues of our time.

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