Our Programs
The College of Arts and Letters offers a broad education in the
liberal arts. It provides a wide range of introductory and advanced
courses in traditional disciplines literature, history, philosophy,
the social sciences and the arts. Study of the humanities and social
sciences is aimed at the development of an open and inquiring mind.
This requires cultural and historical literacy, a knowledge and
appreciation of the rich intellectual, social and artistic heritage of
humanity, and a thoughtful examination of its ethical and aesthetic
values. Our programs emphasize the practical exercise and development
of clear, analytical reasoning and effective communication, skills
that are an essential part of the liberal education. Reflecting the
traditional values of the liberal arts, each program is fully
committed to the principle of free and unfettered intellectual
inquiry.
Besides courses for business, computer science, engineering,
management and science students, the department offers three special
programs: a single B.A. degree, a double B.A. degree, and a minor.
Our History
The Humanities and Social Sciences has its roots in the earliest
programs offered at Stevens. Unlike most other technical schools
founded in the nineteenth century, Stevens from the beginning merged
courses in the Humanities into its programs of study. A more
ambitious "Department of Humanities" was created in 1928. Expanded
and developed under Professors Jack Fife, cultural historian Richard
Humphrey, and historian of science Harold Dorn, it was gradually
transformed into, in effect, a small liberal arts college.
Under philosopher Carol Gould, the department in 1989 introduced
B.A. programs in literature, history, and philosophy. In 2003, the
department was reconstituted as a division including departments of
history, literature, philosophy, social sciences, and art, music, and
technology with new and expanded programs on the graduate and
undergraduate levels.
As of June 1st, 2007, the Division is being restructured as the
College of Arts and Letters with Dr. James McClellan as Dean of the
new college. The activities of the College will continue to be
aligned with a vision that emphasizes the importance of the humanities
to the educational and intellectual vitality of our academic
community. In addition to the academic departments listed previously,
the College of Arts and Letter is home to the Center for Science
Writings (CSW), and the Writing and Communications at the Institute
program (WCI). The College today is staffed by some of Stevens's most
popular instructors and world-renown scholars.
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Upcoming Events
- Wed, Dec 5, 1:00pm - Humanities Forum
John Lenz, Dept. of Liturature & Communications
Plato's Republic, Greek Tragedy, and the Humanities
Lunch buffet starting at 12:45pm
Howe Center, 3rd Floor, Fielding Room
- Wed, Dec 12, 4:00pm -
Center for Science Writings
Steven Pinker, Harvard University
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature
Babbio 122
Calendar of Events >>
News
Professors Dolling and Foster appointed Associate
Deans
On July 3rd, Dean James McClellan announced the appointment of
Professors Edward H. Foster and Lisa M. Dolling as Associate Deans
in the new College of Arts & Letters. Professor Foster will
serve as Associate Dean for administration and Professor Dolling
will be Associate Dean for program development.
Read more >>
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