
International Literatures and Cultures Major
Going to college is all about new experiences, from learning at a higher level to
meeting new people from diverse backgrounds. Through the International Literatures
and Cultures major, you can combine those aspects of the college experience into one
major, further driven by your own academic interests.
As an international literatures and cultures major, you’ll acquire a broad background
in cultural theory, which you will apply to the study of the literature and culture
of a particular nation or region of the world. We encourage students to have a thematic,
period, and/or genre focus to their studies. An important part of our curriculum is
an introduction to, immersion in, and engagement with other cultures, particularly
within students’ chosen focus.
Our goal is not only to teach students about international literatures and cultures,
but to help them develop personal skills including perseverance, curiosity, self-discipline,
risk-taking, willingness to learn from mistakes, and the courage to push beyond their
comfort zone.
Throughout the year, you will participate in festivals and parties with fellow classmates
and the broader campus community. Singing, dancing, eating, fashion shows, and more
help students connect with one another while expanding their understanding of a culture.
As part of the major, you will study a foreign language of your choice—French, German,
Spanish or Chinese—through the 202 level and take courses in the anthropology department
and, when appropriate to your focus, other relevant departments, such as history,
art, music, theatre, philosophy, and others.