By undertaking a comparison of several major cultures of the past that have continued importance in the construction of our present world, the program affords a truly liberal education. Students have a unique opportunity to employ the methods of humanities and social sciences in their major study. They acquire skills of historical and social analysis, multicultural awareness, insight into constructions of gender and sexuality, and mental flexibility.

The major is an excellent choice as a double major taken along with any of the traditional disciplines to add distinction and intellectual breadth to one’s background.