Department of Cultural Studies

Cultural Studies offers students the most variety of courses to choose from at the University. Classes in Sociology, English, Art, Religious Studies, Psychology and more, broaden students’ perspectives on the nature of culture, how it is lived, how it is shared and how it is communicated. As part of that work, students may choose from a wide array of electives that offer more specialized insights, such as World Literature, Media Ethics, the Psychology of Clothing, History of Jazz or Social Issues in Cinema.

This comprehensive approach prepares students to interpret how different aspects of our social world (gender, race, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic class, etc.) influence how we see our world. Students of Cultural Studies will also develop critical thinking skills and flexible tools enabling them to analyze the rapidly changing global environment.

The process of doing Cultural Studies involves both students and faculty in the dynamic investigation of personal and social values, social location, and the formation of social institutions and world views. Students work closely with faculty, who have a wide variety of expertise and come from many disciplines including Philosophy, Religious Studies, Women's and Gender Studies, English and Communication Arts.

With so many areas of interest to explore, Cultural Studies students have countless opportunities to get involved and enjoy a rich university experience. Performing and visual arts, student media, multicultural student groups, service experiences and faith-based organizations are just a few of the ways that students engage and connect.